Your Picture Perfect Wedding Day
Author: Kevin Richard Reppenhagen & John Eric Dove 1 Republished with permission from The Women’s JournalSelecting a photographer for one’s wedding could very well be the most important decision made for the big day. One of our clients said it best. “There are times in one’s life when capturing the essence of the moments is as important as anything on this earth. I would argue that a daughter’s wedding would be one of those moments…!” - Admiral Leighton Smith, father of the bride.
Experience Level: Has this person photographed other weddings? Does he/she do this for a living or for fun? In this industry, photographers come and go daily. A brand-new one may be good, and everyone has to start somewhere, but do you want to trust your once-in-a-lifetime event to a newcomer?
Photographic Style - Are the images that you are shown what you would like to see? Can you picture yourself photographed the same way? Is there a satisfactory mix of different styles? There are “buzz” words flying around everywhere about photojournalism, formal, classic contemporary, and so on. All colorful adjectives aside; do YOU like it?
Truth in Advertising: Is this the photographer that will be photographing your wedding or will they send in whoever is available. Don’t be shocked; this happens more often than you can imagine. Be certain that you know which photographer is going to be there, see his/her work, and meet him/her.
Personality: Is the photographer that you meet someone that you can get along with? Is the “chemistry” there? People have walked away from hairstylists and tailors for less. This is a person with whom you are going to spend most of your most important day. Could you handle it? Does he or she seem service oriented?
Appearance: Ask the photographer how he/she intends to dress. The last thing that you want is a conflict at the wedding because the photographer wears a tank top and jeans with flip flops and a backpack at your ceremony and reception. Is this person well groomed? Do you care?
Price Range: Although the last thing you want to do is shop by price, you should make sure this person is within your budget. If not, is he or she worth the difference? A lot of times we tend to surpass our budget constraints to get what we really want. If you see it and like it, you’ll find a way. In any case, make sure you understand what everything costs, including reorders.
Delivery: How long does it take to get your viewing CD, your finished album, your bridal portrait, etc.? Go ahead and ask. Some photographers take months to deliver your viewing CD. Make sure you know how long things take to turn around.
Offering: Whether it’s a la carte or a package deal, do you understand what you are getting? Is there any room for changes and will it cost to do so? Sometimes the packages are fixed, sometimes they can be customized. In any case, ask. How much time will he/she spend with you? What if you need more time? Make sure that you know what to expect .
Contract: Do you understand the contract? Is it fair? Is everything spelled out? When it comes down to going to court, only what is written really counts, not what was promised. Make sure that you have no doubts before signing. Read everything.
References: A personal reference is always the best and people love to talk. Get a list of references from the photographer and check them out personally. A photographer who doesn’t have references or is afraid to give them to you may not be the person that you need to hire.
KRR has just been awarded the prestigious WeddingWire Bride's Choice Awards ™
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