Having done photography for years, I wasn't worried about finding the right person for my own wedding. I knew I wanted one with style and class, that would cater to my more "unique" taste, but that wouldn't break my already stretching budget. After realizing that many photographers charged just to meet with them, I became extremely frustrated with the whole process. After all, what if I paid to speak with them, only to find out that their "fees" (which were conveniently never listed on their website) were too high?
Luckily for me, Randy's cousin is an AMAZING photographer. She was kind enough to do all our photography for free - as a wedding present to the two of us. Unfortunately, not everyone is blessed with a professional photographer in the family...and no, Uncle Earle with his point-and-shoot doesn't count folks!
If you want a REAL photographer, for your wedding, event, or family portraits, it's important to keep several factors in mind to find the right fit:
- Know what STYLE of photography you want: It doesn't seem like rocket science, but knowing what kind of photography you are looking for is of utmost importance. There are tons of different styles that exist on the market today and knowing the kind you are looking for will point you in the right direction immediately. Artography Weddings lists three main types of photography: Classic, Contemporary or Photojournalistic. However, as you might have already guessed, there are even more genre's in existence if you really start looking hard enough. Take the time to do a little research on each type so that you understand what they are and what they look like. Do a web search of photographers in your area that specialize in each. View each style and see which one suits you or your event the most. Once you've made this important decision you can then spend your time focusing on only those specific style of photographers. This first step will allow you to narrow down your list considerably so that you can start the weeding out process.
- Know what PERSONALITY you want your photographer to have: Common sense will tell you that, just like the styles of photography, there are various different types of photographers as well. In college, the man I worked for was an amazing artist. His photographs were fantastic and folks loved his work. The only problem was, HE told his clients what they were going to get...no questions asked. His subjects were completely under his control, including when and where they posed and even how. Strangely, a lot of people were happy to have him take the lead and give them the direction they so clearly desired; but I on the other hand found it horrible and completely unnecessary. I decided right then and there that if I ever had my own photography business I would NEVER tell a client what to do, unless that's what they were looking for that is! When meeting with YOUR photographer get a good idea of how he/she handles their photo shoots. Do they call the shots or let their client decide? Do they allow the two of you to collaborate on ideas, both throwing out suggestions during the shoot or are they more of a "one man show"? If you are someone that is unsure of what you are looking for in your pictures then make sure that the photographer you are working with is bold enough to take control of the poses and isn't afraid to speak up when needed. On the other hand, if you are like me and have tons of ideas of what you want your pictures to look like, then be sure that your photographer is willing to let you take the reigns for awhile as well. The first conversation you have with a photographer over the phone will tell you a lot right off the bat.
- INTERVIEW at least a few photographers: Set up a meeting with the photographers you now have your list narrowed down to. Meet up with them and get to know their personality a little bit. Take this time to find out specifically what you are getting for your money as well. Don't be afraid to ask LOTS of questions either. It's best to know exactly what you are going to end up with rather than enter into an open ended agreement that doesn't meet your needs.
- Get REFERENCES: Don't just take the photographers word for it, ask his previous clients what THEY thought about their final results. Ask around and see if anyone you know has used him/her before. Look to see if they have a list of testimonials on their website and read what others had to say about their work. If the photographer or studio is listed on Google or other directories there's a good chance they'll have had a review written about them. Be sure to do a search and see what comes up. Check with the BBB or your local Chamber of Commerce. Chances are someone there will be able to tell you something about this photographers business practice. After all, nothing will give you a better idea of what you are getting yourself into then folks who have already had the same experience.
- Know what your are GETTING for your money: Remember the old adage "you get what you pay for"? Well, that is especially true with photography. Sure you can get good ol' Uncle Earle to do your photographs for $80, but will the pictures you get be frame worthy? Only you know how much you are willing and able to spend on your photographs. If quality prints are what you desire, be ready to pay a little extra. On the other hand, don't let yourself be taken to the cleaners either. You shouldn't have to pay exorbitant amounts of money for quality photography AND you should be getting exactly what you want.
- GET A CONTRACT: I can't stress this last point enough! There are a LOT of fly by night photographers out there that are willing to give you a great deal with not a lot of bang for your buck. Don't let someone tell you they are going to do something that they will not follow through with. If you have certain stipulations about your event or your photographs, be sure to have a contract drawn up that specifically states each of these things. Don't be afraid to be pushy on this matter. A serious and legitimate photographer will not mind making sure that their client is completely clear on what they are purchasing!
Follow these few simple rules and finding the right photographer will be...well, a snap! Don't let yourself get overwhelmed, but do keep in mind that your photographs are something that you will want to look at for years to come. These important pictures will create lasting memories for you and your family. You deserve to have nothing but a phenomenal experience with your photographer and the photos you'll cherish for the rest of your life.
For more information about this article or our photography contact Elke & Randy Fehler at puzzlepieceproductions@gmail.com or call (254) 715-6448 to set up a free 30 minute consultation.
