Choosing “The One”: How to Pick Your Photographer
By E. Ce Miller | Photography by Forever Love Photography, LLC
If there’s just one thing you want to get right when planning your wedding (other than, you know, selecting the person who will be standing on the other side of the aisle) it’s your wedding photographer. After all the champagne is gone, the flowers are wilted and the dancing shoes are in the closet, this is the guy or gal who will be entrusted with making sure every memorable moment was captured. When your big day winds down, the photos that were captured will be some of your most precious keepsakes for years to come. Here are some things to keep in mind as you decide who will be clicking the shutter on what will probably be the most photographed day of your life. (No pressure!)
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HAVE A CLEAR IDEA OF WHAT STYLE OF PHOTOGRAPHY YOU ARE LOOKING FOR.
One of the great joys of the Internet age is that you can click through the wedding photographs of practically anyone you want, within a matter of minutes. Do your research before meeting with photographers to get a clear sense of what style of photography you want: vintage, artsy, classic portraits, candid, edgy, documentary-style, tons of black-and-white. Then, once you know what you like (and, equally as important, what you don’t) make that known to any photographers you’re considering. They want you to love your photographs just as much as they do. So, if your styles don’t mesh, don’t worry, just be honest!
While you’re reviewing styles of photography, also take note of any unique images you gravitate toward. By doing so, your photographer can have an understanding of what you’d like captured and confirm that your styles coincide. It’s also a chance for you to make a list of any photos you know you’ll want taken on your big day. Most photographers will ask you for this anyway, but it doesn’t hurt to plan ahead. This way, you will be sure your photographs are as unique as your wedding day itself.
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DON’T BE AFRAID TO ASK QUESTIONS
We all know there is a chance of something going awry on your wedding day, so make sure you ask the hard questions and get the fine print up front. First things first, before you fall head-over-heels in love with the work of a photographer, decide your budget. Make sure you’re clear on what that budget actually is and how much you’re willing to budge for your dream photos.
Then, be sure to take the time to meet for a consultation and interview a few photographers. Ask questions like:
- What happens if the photographer becomes suddenly and violently ill on our wedding day?
- What does a post-production timeline look like?
- How long will it take to get the proofs back?
- How many photos can we expect?
- When can we anticipate receiving the wedding album?
- What options are available for guests who want to order a few photos of their own?
- Will there be an online photo album available for sharing?
- What’s your policy on posting our wedding images to social media, etc?
There are no stupid questions when it comes to finding the perfect wedding photographer, we promise. Also, while you’re meeting with the photographer ask to see photography samples in person. Of course, you have scrolled through dozens of pictures from their online albums, social media and blog posts! But, looking at images online doesn’t quite compare to looking at a printed piece. Now is also the time to ask and make note about the wedding album styles they offer and any large-print and canvas options they might have.
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MAKE SURE YOU VIBE WITH ONE ANOTHER.
You might be inclined to focus in on the photo-specific details right away such as: How many weddings have you shot? What is your creative aesthetic? But first, make sure the two of you click.
While you hardly have to become instant besties or promise to name your firstborn after the fellow person snapping your wedding photos, it is important that you’re comfortable around one another. (This person is, after all, going to be snapping every kiss, slow dance and gooey-eyed gaze you share with your new spouse. You want to be able to be yourself in front of them). Pay attention to how you feel around them — what your energy is like, how comfortable you are cracking a joke or asking questions — and let that feeling help guide you.
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BOOK YOUR ENGAGEMENT SESSION.
After meeting for a consultation to answer all of your questions about the investment, process and timeline, it’s time to book your engagement session with your dream photographer. This is the perfect way to get more familiar with your photographer —and for your photographer to get more familiar with you. They will be able to use that time to pick up on the subtleties of your relationship, as well as what lighting and poses look the best for the two of you. (If Instagram has taught us anything, it’s that you can’t underestimate the power of good lighting).
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PRACTICE YOUR POSES.
Posing is much easier said than done. It’s one thing to understand how your body should be posed, it’s another thing to actually do it. Don’t be fooled by the way models seem to effortlessly slide into crazy-photogenic poses. Remember that these individuals are trained professionals who make their careers out of being photographed. They had to work hard to make it look so easy.
The truth about good posing is that it’s often uncomfortable. As many photographers will tell you: if you’re not sore, then you’re probably not doing it right. That idea might seem counterintuitive at first. But sometimes what feels awkward actually looks way more natural than you might think. The best thing you can do is to try to relax into the pose if possible. If you’re still not convinced, your photographer should be able to show you how the photos are looking as you go along.
On the other hand, while some poses can be a bit uncomfortable, you should never be in pain! If your photographer poses you in such a way that is excruciating, don’t suffer in silence. Let them know so they can adjust and accommodate.
Also, if you are confused by what your photographer wants you to do, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. A good photographer should be able to give you directions that are easy to both understand and execute.
One of the most common questions couples ask when being photographed is, “What should we be doing with our hands?” This is a very valid question. Many times, the instant you step in front of the camera, your arms suddenly feel like paperweights dangling uselessly at your side. You need to give them some purpose. But you don’t have to make it too complicated. In fact, it could be as simple as both of you using your hands to support the bouquet, throwing your ring hand out in front of you to show off your bling or even delicately resting your hands on each other’s shoulders or waists. Again, your photographer will guide and assist you, but the main takeaway is to always make sure your hands are engaged.
Poor posture, along with being bad for your spine, is also very obvious in photos. A good remedy is to start developing better body awareness.
In fact, you can start right now! Take stock of the position of your body. How are you sitting? Slumped forward with a curved spine and slouchy shoulders? That simply won’t do. Take a moment to draw your shoulders back, opening up your chest and lifting your chin. Draw your belly button to your spine to give yourself an instantly tighter stomach. Make a conscious effort to sit and stand up straighter. The sooner you make good posture a habit, the easier it will be to maintain when the wedding day jitters kick in.
But maintaining good posture doesn’t mean you have to be tense. Occasionally, check to make sure you aren’t holding any unnecessary tension. Remember to relax your shoulders and unclench your jaw.
Getting more comfortable in front of the camera with your photographer behind the lens will ensure that the photos they capture on your wedding day are picture-perfect.
