The work of your wedding photographer will live on far beyond the wedding day. Therefore, it can be incredibly stressful choosing which professional will be given this formidable task. Here are four things to consider in order to ensure you select the perfect photographer to capture the biggest day of your life.
Julie Afflerbaugh Photography
Initial Meeting:
Pay attention to if your photographer takes the time to answer questions, share their portfolio, and get to know you and your fiance. Just as you should feel relaxed and comfortable with your wedding planner, you should have an equally compatible relationship with your photographer. The Knot mentions that you also want the photographer to get along with your guests, as you do not want the picture taking to become obnoxious or intrusive. You will spend many hours with your photographer, especially if they shoot your engagement photos, so you want to not only have confidence in their photography experience but also enjoy who they are as a person.
Julie Afflerbaugh Photography
Packages:
Take the time to analyze your photographer’s different package options and which of them, if any, most closely suite your needs. For example, some photographers will offer a discounted engagement shoot if you book them for your wedding. Furthermore, some packages may include a second shooter where as some may not. Decide if you value having that second shooter for getting ready photos, candid reception shots, etc. or if you would be satisfied with just one photographer. The Knot suggests, “find out what’s included in the standard package, plus the basic range for any extras you may want, like an engagement shoot…in particular, find out exactly how many hours of coverage are included.” If you find a package you love but it is outside of your budget, a full service wedding planner can provide money saving suggestions and look for places in the budget where there may be wiggle room. Considering costs and your preferences, determine what level of service you truly want and if the photographer has a package that matches it. 
Julie Afflerbaugh Photography
Style:
Based on the photographer’s portfolio, determine if their shooting and editing style matches your personal preferences. Unlike the cake or flowers, you will be unable to see the final product until after the wedding. According to The Knot, shooting styles can range anywhere from portraiture, with posed and carefully arranged shots similar to your parents’ wedding album, to documentary, with candid and “in the moment” photos. Furthermore, fine art photos give the photographer great artistic freedom, and bold photos, “an offshoot of fine art” emphasize unique angles and framing. Editing styles display a similar range, producing photos that are bright and ethereal, dark and cinematic, or anywhere in between. Consider the overall feel of your wedding and if the photographer’s style is in line with it.
Booze Photography
Planner’s Recommendations:
Ask your wedding planner if he or she has previous experience with the photographer and is familiar with his or her work. Your wedding planner is likely familiar with the photographer’s reputation in the industry and can help guide you in the right direction. As your planner, he or she wants to ensure you are spending your money wisely and will be satisfied with the end result. If your wedding planner does not recommend the photographer you are considering, ask for a list of whom he or she would feel suggest.
Booze Photography