How to choose the perfect wedding photographer

So you’ve just started planning your wedding day and you are now looking for the perfect wedding photographer. This can be daunting, where do you start? How do you start? And what should you look for?

Shortlist potential photographers

The first step is to create a shortlist of potential wedding photographers that you wish to contact. This can be done via Google and visiting different photographer’s websites. Once you have made a list its time to start contacting them and getting a feel for their personality.
Try to determine which photographer will meet your budget and needs. You should also consider how well they perform in different settings and environments. For example, if you’re getting married outdoors or in the countryside, it makes good sense to choose a photographer who is experienced at filming outdoors. Think about the tone that you want your wedding photos to convey. Would you like your photographs to be traditional or fun and light hearted?
After narrowing down your selection of photographers, make appointments to meet with them. During the interviews, ask them to show you examples of previous work that they have done. It is very likely that the photographer will have a couple of wedding albums available to show you.
Pay attention to the photographers personality, do they have the type of personality that will make people feel comfortable and happy?  You will be making special requests on your wedding day, so it’s important that your comfortable communicating with them.

Ask family and friends for recommendations

The best wedding photographers will have developed a successful reputation. They should be extremely easy to find. Start your search by asking for recommendations from friends and family who have recently held or been to weddings. Ask them if they liked the photographer, this will give you an idea of his/her personality and their ability to make you and your wedding guests feel comfortable.  Any good photographer will know that wedding photography is all about getting the most out of the bride, groom and the guests.
Your family and friends are the best people to ask because they will have your best interests at heart. Also, ask other professionals that are involved with your wedding day, it’s likely that they will have worked with wedding photographers in the past. Ask for recommendations from your florist, DJ, car driver or caterer. If other professionals are willing to stake their reputation on recommending a photographer, chances are that the person is very good.

Signing the contract and negotiating costs

There have been a number of horror stories when it comes to paying wedding photographers. Make sure that the contract provides a full outline of each service that you’re paying for and the time frame in which everything will be delivered. Try to get this sorted well in advance of your wedding day. The more clear the contract, the better it will be for everyone involved. The last thing you want is your photographer holding your wedding photos hostage until you pay his extra fees.
Contrary to what other people may have told you, pretty much everything is negotiable, including packages, price and various extras. Before you start negotiating with the photographer, it’s worth knowing exactly what level of service you require. It is also important to ensure that the photographer you booked is the photographer that you will get. Many large companies will promise you one photographer and then do a switch on your wedding day.