Choosing your wedding photographer step by step
LEARN ABOUT the different STYLES AND offerings
#1 Do your research
It's really important to do a little research on the photographic styles and approaches out there to think about what you might like. Do you like documentary wedding photography? Do you like a candid, photojournalistic approach or do you prefer a more formal, structured look? Are you considering a photographer who shoots in film? Take the time to look at wedding photos, even if they are not from photographers in your area. Train your eye to understand what you like. Use Google or any other search engine for your research, but also ask your friends, colleagues and family members for recommendations.
DECIDE HOW MUCH MONEY YOU ARE GOING TO SPEND ON PHOTOGRAPHY
#2 Determine your budget
Don't set a budget without first doing some research and listing your priorities. The average couple in Paris sets a budget between €1,500 - €2,000 for their wedding photography. Such a package usually includes full coverage of the day and digital photos, but rarely includes additional services, such as albums or prints. If you want an above average package, you should expect to pay an above average price!
REFINE YOUR SELECTION WITH YOUR FAVORITE PHOTOGRAPHERS
#3 Make a list of the photographers you like the most
Collect the info of 3-4 photographers to contact. Give them as much information as possible about your wedding, such as date, time, location, church, number of guests, wedding theme, if there is one, etc. This kind of information will help the photographers understand the size of your event and the amount of travel and preparation they will have to do in order to correctly estimate their prices and availability.
Discussion and feedback from THE PHOTOGRAPHER
#4 Meeting the photographer
Have a video call with the photographers or have a cup of coffee with them to see if you are a good "match" for each other.
That's it! You've found your wedding photographer, it's time to book him/her! 🎉
finalizing OF YOUR CHOICE
#5 Decision making and contract signing
Don't let too much time go by before making a decision because you may fall in love with a photographer and his/her work but he may not be available anymore if you wait for several weeks before confirming your interest to work with him/her.
