I am often asked for advice on how to find a Wedding Photographer, below are my thoughts and opinions.
How to hire a wedding photographer.
There are many wonderful photographers who charge a fair rate, work hard and will work within your budget. Below is a short list on how to narrow your search for a wedding photographer in Victoria, BC.
1. Ask around. Talk to your friends, family and work mates. The very best recommendations are word of mouth or direct referrals. In my own business 2/3’s of the couples who contact me are referred by past clients. Fabulous photography will not go unnoticed; clients, who love their photos, tell the world around them.
2. Most cities will have several online directories to help in your search. Just type in wedding photography, wedding photographer or weddings Victoria. When viewing portfolios online pay close attention to style. Today you can hire specialist in photojournalism, portraiture, fashion, or a generalist to shoot your wedding. Keep in mind if you hire a specialist you will only receive that one style. I believe it’s best to hire a photographer who has a more rounded approach, with training in many disciplines.
3. If possible chose a wedding photographer from the area where you’re getting married. Local photographers now the lay of the land, lighting conditions, the best locations and the times of day to shoot them. They’re also connected with other professional in the industry so they can help you find thing.
4. If possible meet with the photographer. Viewing an online portfolio can only tell you so much. When you meet, do you feel comfortable with the person? Remember the photographer will be with you all day. When you’re looking at their work are the photos sharp, properly exposed and printed to a high quality? If the images look dull, blurry or have questionable color it’s not a good sign – you should run for the door.
5. When you meet ask what’s included in the cost? Are there any extra hidden fees or costs involved? The average wedding will require 10-15 hours of post production work, so knowing what’s included upfront will help eliminate misunderstandings.
6. Ask if the photos you are seeing have been taken by the photographer? Well this may seem obvious many studios have multiple photographers on staff assigned to weddings as needed. Some photographers will even hire a second shooter or assistant who also takes photos; images from multiple photographers can end up in finished albums confusing the consumer.
7. You may have to spend a little more to hire a talented photographer but it’s worth it. I often question couples who are spending $12,000.00 on catering and only budgeting $1500.00 for photography what lasts longer? The commitment lasts forever, so do the photos. The food – not so long.
8. Ask for references. You’re spending thousands of dollars you should be asking for references from all your venders. The Hotel, cater, florist, photographer, etc.
By know you’ve likely noticed that I have not mentioned cost. Unfortunately as you go through the process of meeting and interviewing photographers you will come to the conclusion the amount a photographer charges rarely indicates quality of work. Fantastic work and mediocre work often costs the same. Hah? Way is that? Well photography is an art and each artist charges what they feel they are worth. Professionals base their fees on experience, reputation, abilities, tangible things etc. Amateurs feel they should just charge the going rate. Beware of amateurs.
