Planning a wedding can be one of the most exciting times in your life! It can also be one of the most stressful. I’ve found that there are a few things that can really impact your wedding planning experience, and one of those is choosing vendors you feel comfortable with. If you are wondering how to feel comfortable with your wedding photographer, look no further. I’ve polled some of my past clients to put together this guide for choosing a wedding photographer you can trust.
Follow Them on Social Media
Ok, I probably shouldn’t encourage this one too much because, truth me told, I am AWFUL at social media when it comes to my business. BUT, I have found that it is a great way for me to connect to current and potential clients for a few reasons. First, obviously you know I am going to post photos from my portfolio, so you can see the most updated work on Instagram and Facebook.
Secondly, whether we realize it or not, SO MUCH of our personality shines through on social media. Yeah, I know, a lot of it is fake and calculated. But at least for me, social media is one of the only ways I can really show potential clients who I really am. I post some personal things in my stories – like adorable photos of my son for all you baby lovers out there – and I write like I talk. Warning, I curse way more in person. Sorry!
Get on the Phone
The easiest way to get to know your wedding photographer is to meet them. Since this isn’t always possible, a phone or Skype meeting is perfect. During this meeting, not only will you get to know a bit about their personality during conversation, but you can also ask all the questions you have before booking their services. If you have any hesitations about your timeline, questions on how to book an engagement session, what happens after the wedding, now is your time to lay it all out on the table and see if your vision aligns with theirs. Most wedding photographers I know are MORE than happy to set aside time to meet with couples, so just ask!
Read Reviews/Word of Mouth
So, we all know that people on the internet can be crazy, and we can’t believe everything we read online. BUT for the most part, reviews on sites like Wedding Wire are really spot on and can tell you a lot about your wedding photographer. These reviews cannot be paid for, and users have to be registered with the website, so you can pretty much count on them being accurate.
Another, even BETTER way to get an honest review about a vendor is to ask around. Who do your friends recommend? Better yet, who does your wedding planner recommend? Wedding planners work with hundreds of vendors; if they are recommending someone, it’s probably for a good reason.
Book an Engagement Session
This one is kind of non negotiable for me. Every couple that books a wedding collection with me gets a complimentary engagement session because I believe they are THAT important. Engagement sessions are a wonderful way to get to know your photographer before the wedding. You get to experience how they operate behind the camera, and work out any awkwardness before the big day. It’s also great for your photographer. They get to know what you are comfortable with, and how you and your fiancé interact with one another.
Communicate
Last but certainly not least, communicate with your photographer once you’ve booked them. For example, if you have any sensitive family issues that might affect your photos, just let them know so they can plan accordingly. If you have any special photo requests, make sure to let them know before the wedding day so it’s a part of their timeline. If you have any concerns about your timeline, let them know ASAP so you can get the photos you are dreaming of!
I hope these tips helped you figure out how to feel comfortable with your wedding photographer, and gave you the confidence you need to find someone you love working with!
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