How to choose a wedding photographer

Firstly, congratulations! Your upcoming wedding marks the beginning of an extraordinary chapter in your lives, and I'm thrilled to be part of your planning process.

Now, let's cut to the chase. If you're looking for the short answer amidst all this chatter, it's this: finding the right wedding photographer ultimately boils down to personal connection.

But, as you've probably already realized, navigating this decision isn't as simple as snapping your fingers. With a plethora of photographers out there vying for your attention, it's easy to feel overwhelmed.

For many couples, this will be their first time booking a professional photographer. While the default may be to hit the search engines with queries like "Dorset wedding photographers" (or wherever your wedding may be), this approach might not yield the personalized results you're after.

Given that many photographers have limited availability, it's wise to kick off your search as soon as you've secured your wedding date. And if you're feeling particularly smitten with a certain photographer's work, why not reach out to express your admiration and inquire about their availability before finalizing your venue? (You will make their week!)

Now, let's talk style.

Wedding photography encompasses a range of styles, each with its own vibe and narrative approach. At the forefront is documentary photography—the style I specialise in.

Think of documentary photography as your wedding day's silent observer, capturing authentic moments as they unfold without intruding or directing. These images paint a vivid, honest picture of your special day, akin to flipping through the pages of a captivating storybook.

In the upcoming sections, we'll dive into additional styles to give you a well-rounded understanding, minus the jargon. No need for "journeys" or metaphors here—just practical advice to help you find the perfect photographer for your big day. Let's get down to business.

If striking a pose isn't your cup of tea, if the mere thought of being in front of a camera makes you break into a sweat, or if you simply prefer to live in the moment rather than pausing for photo ops, then a Documentary Wedding photographer might just be your perfect match. But let me assure you, my style of photography isn't solely reserved for the camera-shy. It's also for the bold, the adventurous souls who dare to do things differently, those who refuse to let their day be interrupted by constant posing. It's for the fun-loving couples who want to celebrate their love authentically, without feeling like they're on a never-ending photoshoot.

However, I do believe in weaving a touch of tradition into the mix. I cherish the timeless essence of traditional family photos—the kind you'd find in your parents' wedding album. These images hold a special place in our hearts, capturing cherished moments with loved ones that transcend time. Many of my couples opt to include these classic shots, often providing me with a detailed shot list of everyone they want to immortalize in their wedding memories—especially their parents and grandparents.

After all, how many photos do you have with your mum or grandad that you truly treasure?

Fine Art:

Not entirely dissimilar to documentary style, Fine Art photography draws inspiration from fashion and editorial magazines. It's a meticulously planned and curated approach, often characterized by its ethereal, airy aesthetics.

Photographers adept in Fine Art photography masterfully blend natural light with flashes and artificial lighting to create images that exude the sophistication of magazine spreads or news articles.

This style resonates with couples who are deeply influenced by fashion and contemporary trends. It's less about capturing moments as they happen and more about translating the photographer's vision and artistic ideas into stunning photographic art. If you envision your wedding day immortalized in beautiful, curated pieces of art, Fine Art photography might be the perfect fit for you.

Traditional:

On the other end of the spectrum, Traditional wedding photography adheres to a preconceived notion of what constitutes essential wedding photographs. Expect to pause and pose for the majority of key moments throughout the day, including a dedicated portrait session.

While Traditional photography may lack the spontaneity of documentary or the artistic flair of Fine Art, it holds timeless appeal for many couples. This style ensures that all the expected shots—such as group portraits, ceremony moments, and formal poses—are captured with precision and clarity.

Once you've identified your preferred style, you can begin the search for the perfect wedding photographer who aligns with your vision and values. But before you dive in, there are a few crucial considerations to keep in mind...

But the most important one?

YOU HAVE TO LIKE THEM AS A PERSON!

Consider this: you'll be spending a significant portion of your wedding day in the company of your photographer. There's nothing more unsettling than feeling uncomfortable or disconnected from someone who's meant to capture your most intimate moments. Moreover, your photographer will inevitably interact with your cherished friends and family members, further emphasizing the importance of compatibility.

Ensure you take the time to connect with your prospective photographer, whether it's through an in-person meeting, a Zoom call, or a good old-fashioned phone conversation. If you're fortunate enough to be local, I highly recommend meeting over coffee for a relaxed chat—it's a wonderful way to gauge compatibility and ease any lingering doubts.

Remember, you hold the reins in this search. With a plethora of photographers vying for your attention, you have the power to explore the market and find the perfect fit for you. Trust your instincts and seek out the photographer who resonates with your personality and values.

After all, your wedding day should be filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine connections—starting with the person behind the lens.

Budget

Affordability is a key consideration.

However, it's essential to recognize that quality often comes at a price. As the saying goes, you get what you pay for. Myself, along with numerous past couples and fellow photographers, advocate for investing as much as you feasibly can into your wedding photography. A general guideline of allocating 10-15% of your total budget towards photography is a prudent starting point.

While there are various ways to economize and save funds for your wedding—each couple's financial situation is unique—I must emphasize the importance of not skimping on photography. It's tempting to slash that 10-15% allocation to 5% in a bid to cut costs elsewhere. However, I urge against this temptation.

Why? Because your wedding photography isn't just another expense—it's an investment in your memories. Your photographs will serve as timeless mementos, allowing you to relive the magic of your wedding day time and time again. Trust me when I say that your wedding photography will become one of your most treasured possessions.

In my experience, I've encountered countless married couples who unanimously affirm that they have no regrets about investing in a skilled photographer. However, what many do regret is not allocating more towards their photography budget.

Whether it's forgoing essential preparations, skimping on a second photographer, or neglecting to capture precious moments on video—these are the regrets that linger long after the wedding day has passed.

Remember, your wedding photography is an investment in your love story—a timeless reminder of the joy, laughter, and tears that filled your hearts on that special day. So, when it comes to budgeting for your wedding photography, prioritize quality, longevity, and the preservation of your cherished memories above all else. Trust me, you won't regret it.

As we wrap up, I hope these insights have been helpful in guiding you toward choosing the perfect photographer for your wedding day.

If you're still on the hunt for the ideal photographer, look no further. I'm here and ready to capture every magical moment of your special day.

My passion lies in preserving the genuine emotions, candid interactions, and authentic beauty of weddings.

So, if you're ready to entrust your memories to a skilled professional who truly cares about capturing the essence of your wedding day, don't hesitate to reach out. Let's chat, discuss your vision, and see how we can bring your dream wedding photos to life.

Emma

@emmagormanphotography

YOU HAVE TO LIKE THEM AS A PERSON!

Budget

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