How To... Select The Right Photographer For You
Reflected in the portfolios of their work, you will see that each
photographer has their own distinctive style. To find the right photographer for
your special day, you must first decide on the photographic style you prefer. If
you are not sure which style is right for you, the following options clarify the
differences.
- Traditional: Traditional wedding photographers tend to capture
perfect moments with dignity, treating every image as a posed portrait. They
produce excellent shots of the wedding party, families, and planned events
(cake cutting ceremony, first dance, bouquet toss, etc.). This doesn’t mean
that every photo will appear to be forced or posed, but it is probably safe to
say you won’t see many spontaneous action shots included in the photographs!
- Classical: A classical wedding photographer specializes in expertly
composed, well-lit portraits. You won’t find them asking your guests, to
“smile for the camera”! They try to keep a low profile at the reception, in
order to set up perfect, classical images.
- Commercial: These photographers will take perfect shots of
centerpieces, flowers, décor, the cake, etc. They are capable of taking
magazine-quality images. They are sometimes hired to do just that, along with
another photographer to handle the people pictures!
- Photojournalistic: A photojournalistic photographer considers it
their job to record events, not stage them! This photographer will, of course,
take the group shots you want, but there will be far less formal gatherings of
guests. These photographers prefer to capture close-ups, spontaneous
reactions, and sensitive impressions! They photograph a wedding led by events,
instead of orchestrating the photographs that are going to be taken!
- Photographic Artist: A photographic artist is similar to the
photojournalist. They prefer to find artistic ways to photograph people and
events. They produce less candid shots, but they are beautifully composed, and
full of drama and artistic beauty! They tend to lean towards the black and
white shots more so than the other types of photographers!
Once you and your fiancé have agreed on the type and style of photography you
prefer, you can begin your search for the right photographer. Get
recommendations from friends, your caterer, your venue, and check websites (PittsburghWedding.com
lists several of Pittsburgh’s finest photographers). Always ask for
references, and don’t be afraid to check on them! Make sure to interview
several, until you are sure you are happy with your decision. After all, this is
one of the most important days of your life. You’ll want to find a photographer
that is able to capture every precious memory! Following are a few points to
cover while interviewing your prospective photographers:
-
Portfolio. The pictures tell all!
When conducting your interviews, ask to see samples of his or her work. Look
for clean, sharp images that convey true emotions and feelings. Don’t let
special effects or set-ups dazzle you. Make sure to look at one or two
weddings, from start to finish! You don’t want to see some of their best shots
all from different weddings, (anyone can take a few good pictures once in a
while). What you are looking at is the photographers’ showcase; it is not
going to get any better, so make sure you like what you see! Some companies
have several photographers working for them, so also be sure you are hiring
the actual photographer that took the photos you liked so well!
-
Philosophy and Compatibility. Ask
each photographer you interview their philosophy about weddings. This can
really make a big difference in your photographs! You should see great photos
from the enthusiastic, dedicated photographer. On the other hand, if this is
“just another job” to them, you may not like the final outcome!
If you like a particular photographers’ work, but you don’t like the
photographer, move on to your next prospect! If you are uncomfortable at all,
it will show up in your photos! Communication and trust are big factors when
choosing your photographer. It is a big help to bring along some photographic
styles you like (look in some bridal magazines, or at the announcements in
your newspaper). Make it clear to your photographer exactly the vision you
have and the type of look you want. Be specific and communicate your needs. By
doing this you should be able to trust your photographer, and on your wedding
day let him, (or her) do what he (or she) does best!
-
Service and Pricing. Price and
service comparisons need to be incorporated into your decision making process.
When you are interviewing your prospective photographers be sure to inquire
about the following: Is your wedding date available? Do they charge for travel
time? Are they familiar with your ceremony and reception sites? Is there a
wedding package offered? If so, of what does it consist? How many hours are
included? Is there a charge for overtime? Find out the size and cost of
albums. Are there any substitutions or can additional prints be purchased? If
you prefer, can you just buy loose prints instead of an album? How long are
the negatives kept, just in case something were to happen to your album? These
are just some basic things to go over while doing your interviews.
Once you have agreed to the date and terms with your photographer, get an
itemized breakdown of all costs. Make sure the contract includes, the date, time
and place of arrival, length of shooting period, how many photos will be taken,
breakdown of package cost (also find out if they offer a discount if you want to
buy extra albums for your parents or grandparents), any extra charges, scheduled
time for reviewing proofs, and delivery date of your finished album. Make sure
price guarantees are included for additional prints, or enlargements. How is
this to be paid? Before the contract is signed make sure to cover everything in
full detail.
Before your wedding day arrives, make a list of the events and certain people
or groups you would like photographed. If you don’t have a wedding planner ask
an attendant or close friend to show the photographer the locations and help
round-up everyone. Now you can relax and be confident that the essential details
of your special day will be captured flawlessly! So, smile!
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