By: Joshua & Kariss Farris, Co-Founders/Head Photographers of Pharris Photography
As photographers, and once bride and groom in the midst of planning their wedding, we understand the importance of finding the right photographer to capture your special day. There is so much information readily available to you. You might be overwhelmed not knowing what source to refer to but, we would love to give you questions that need to be asked before booking your wedding photographer. Having the inside scoop from both the bride and photographer’s end, we know this insight will be of value and immensely help you on your journey to finding the right photography team. Continue scrolling to read more or click here to see the full feature on MunaLuchi Bride.
Why do you shoot weddings? This questions is crucial because it will help you get to know your photographer in a more personal way. Are they just doing it for the paycheck or do they truly enjoy their craft. Those that have a passion for creating beautiful imagery will give you a personal reason. Secondly, you will be with your photographer(s) all day so it is extremely important for you to like them. From the getting ready images, to the first look, ceremony, reception, and send off; trust us when we say you need to like them! They will be following you around all day to get those perfect shots! Lastly, this is a great introductory question and hopefully their answer resonates with you and affirms your interest in them.
What will my experience be with you from start to finish? While researching and meeting with various photographers, you want to make sure they have a plan. This question ensures that they have a pre-set process, ensuring you a smooth experience. There’s nothing worse than a couple stressed about their wedding and a photographer who adds to that stress by being disorganized. Yikes!
How would you describe your style? The goal is to find a photographer who resonates with the style of photography you would want for your wedding. They are able to assist in making your dreams come to life in an aesthetically pleasing way. There are so many options! You have to ask yourself, “Do I prefer natural light or flash? Do I like more editorial shots or journalistic photography? Do I want candids or posed?” These are important topics to bring up when meeting with your photographer to make sure you get the end result you were hoping for!
How do you backup your images? It’s extremely important that you like the style and how your photographer shoots but it’s even more important he or she takes care of the only thing left of your day, your images! Unfortunately, neither technology nor humans are perfect. Sometimes things do happen, but if your photographer is prepared, they will have backed up your photos! By asking this question, it shows the photography team that you want to hold them accountable for this special moment. If they don’t have a backup plan, they should make one! Sometimes things happen out of our control but having a Plan B (and even C) puts everyone at ease knowing there will be images, one way or another!
Ask to see a full gallery. Maybe you saw an Instagram post, or a ad in a magazine, or a blog on their website, but its imperative to see the entire package. It’s like going to the movies and settling in with popcorn and a soda only to watch the highlight reel. You will also get to see the consistency of their editing. By viewing a full gallery you will see the full picture, and hopefully, envision yourself in those pictures. That’s when you know you’ve found the perfect match!
All in all, we hope you found these tips helpful. These questions have helped dozens of couples live out their wedding day dreams with great memories to look back on. If you are interested in asking us these question or any others for your special day, inquire today by clicking here. We’d love to answer your questions!
