Hiring the
Perfect Photographer
A picture-perfect day starts with a picture-perfect shutterbug.
Here's how to pick the best.
Choosing a photographer isn't easy: You want someone who
understands your style, is easy to work with and most of all,
someone you trust. The following guidelines will help you
choose a photographer who will record your sentimental journey
the way you want to remember it.
Know where to look
Ask recently married friends for recommendations or consult
wedding professionals (catering-hall managers, wedding consultants,
bridal salon owners, etc.) for suggestions. Open up the Yellow
Pages or, better yet, check out UWD's Local
Services sections. You may be able to see samples of their
work on line.
Think about what you want
Are you into a photojournalistic style, where you get lots of
candids, instead of posed, shots? Or do you like a more traditional
look, with every picture artfully set up? "The most important
thing is finding somebody whose style fits yours," "If the photos
in the portfolio aren't what you want, use someone else. Even
if the photographer says he can do it, most of the pictures
will be what he's used to doing."
See the proof
Ask to see a client's proof book-the collection of all the shots
the photographer took at a wedding. It'll give you a more accurate
picture of his work. "You see everything, not just the best
work.
Ask about specialties
Many photographers have mastered special techniques, such as
hand-coloring, infrared, black—and-white or sepia-tone
photographs. These unique effects will set your album apart.
Also, ask to see all album choices (leather? cloth? colors?)
to be sure you like the "whole package." Don't forget to ask
about digital photography, too. When
it comes time to send photos to everyone, it's a lot easier
to just upload a file and set up a wedding site for friends
and family to visit.
Get to know the photographer
Your photographer will be by your side all day, so your personalities
should click. "Nothing will put a bigger damper on the day than
having to deal with somebody you think is a real jerk," says
Pfeiffer.
Beware of the bait and switch
Make sure you're meeting with the person who will take your
pictures—and that you're seeing his work. At some studios,
a marketing person talks to you, but then you're assigned to
a freelance photographer whose work you haven't seen.
Make a battle plan
The photographer should have a good sense of how to keep the
day running smoothly. "If a photographer isn't organized, you
can miss the whole cocktail hour," warns Sattler. "Ask how and
when they will shoot the formal photos."
Ask for backup
Find out if the photographer brings extra equipment and film
in case something goes awry. If he doesn't, you may risk missing
the ring-exchange shots because the flash was on the fritz.
Also, make sure they have a backup photographer in case of an
emergency.
Hire extra help
If you have a large wedding party, a photographer's assistant
may be worth the extra cash. He or she will organize the shots,
fix your train and hold backup equipment so the photographer
can snap shots more easily and quickly. "Weddings are so hectic,
and one person can't be in all places at all times. If you get
two photographers, you have two different perspectives on the
wedding, two people capturing the details. Nothing is lost."
Check references
Your potential picture-taker should have a list of former clients.
Call a few to see how satisfied they were with their pictures.
Handle the nitty-gritty
Find out about the payment plan, how many proofs you'll get,
how much time they'll spend shooting at your wedding and what
packages they offer. Be sure you get everything in writing,
in your contract.
Remember that photos are a worthwhile investment
"Pictures appreciate in value," says Pfeiffer. "As time goes
on, you forget things, and pictures are the only record you'll
have."
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