Few things can launch your life off in a new direction quite like getting engaged. The excitement, the whirlwind of planning, the decisions…it can get overwhelming pretty quickly! Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Follow these tips on how to choose a photographer without getting overwhelmed along the way.
How to Choose a photographer based on Artistic Style
This is where your search should begin. The number one thing to look for in your search is the photographic and artistic style of their work.
Do you like trendy or classic style photos? Some photographers pride themselves on their features in magazines or blogs because they closely follow style trends and what is aesthetically popular. Is this important to you? Will those style trends be relevant in 5, 10, 20 years or more? Will you still be as proud to display and show off your wedding heirloom artwork on your walls or in albums after those specific style trends have long passed?
Or do you prefer something more timeless? True, the more unfiltered approach may not stand out as much in terms of uniqueness. However, it will be much more likely to stand the test of time. Classic beauty has a very long shelf life.
Timeless doesn’t have to look dated.
Finding a photographer who can capture your style in a timeless, enduring way is one of the best ways to get the most value. Photography is a long term investment, so don’t forget about longevity with the photos you will cherish for a lifetime.
Look at style (and only style) first—one thing at a time. Do you love the look of the photos? Can you describe why you love it in a clear way when you consult with the photographer? And will you love it as long as you love your spouse? Using style as the focus when making your short list of photographers is a big step to avoid overwhelming yourself with all the choices.
How to Choose a Photographer Based on Personality
One of the most important things that wedding and engagement photos aim to do is capture your personalities. Your photographer needs to know you in order to properly do that in any meaningful way. Do they understand you? Forgive the super corny pun, but do you feel like they “click” with you?
Beyond the engagement session, you’ll spend the entire day with your photographer on your wedding day. This is more time together than with any other wedding vendor! (Depending on your wedding day timeline—which we also help with—in some very traditional cases, you may even spend more time with your photographer than with your spouse!) So it’s important that your personalities are a good match. You should easily get a sense of this when you meet them. Meeting my couples ahead of time is always worth it to me to take the time to get to know them. It really does improve and elevate the whole process.
Education is Important
Do they take the time to educate you throughout the process? Or do they move so fast the whole experience is over by the time you settle in to enjoy it? My clients often note they come out of the engagement session process feeling much more knowledgeable and experienced than before they started. It gives them so much confidence heading into the wedding day. They’ve learned how to pose comfortably in natural ways that emphasize their best features and minimize any insecurities. Confident seems like a pretty amazing way to be walking into your wedding day!
We create more than just art and lasting memories for our couples. Calmness, composure, and self-assurance are often additional perks that definitely add to the value of working with a photographer.
Do they have the experience to guide you and advise you, and—bottom line—do you trust their judgement?
How to Choose a Photographer Based on Energy
Are you more introverted or extroverted? Do you want someone who is super high energy and in your face all day? Or someone who can step in when needed but be more a more subtle presence so you can enjoy your day and take in all the experiences?
I tend to be a bit more low key and inconspicuous, but my teaching background gives me the experience and command to efficiently direct the wedding party and extended family during those crowded and high energy times of the day. And I love collaborating with other vendors to make your day seamless and low stress.
Figuring out where your preferences lie is an important part of how to choose a photographer. The good news is there are definitely photographers out there for every preference. Getting an engagement session is one of the best ways to try out a photographer. You’ll know when they are a good fit for you and your big day.
Enter to Win!
Right now, it couldn’t be easier to try us out—we’re running a FREE ENGAGEMENT SESSION GIVEAWAY for a limited time. What do you have to lose? Fill out the form and enter now! Or contact us with questions!