You have three or four wedding photographers on your shortlist, and on Instagram they all look good. What matters is what you don't see there: complete weddings, how they work during the ceremony, and when you get your images. Here are the key points for your decision.
Rapport decides whether images feel real
The chemistry between you and the photographer is central. If you feel at ease, you relax in front of the camera, and that's exactly what shows in the photos. So besides the portfolio, look at whether you get on. In a get-to-know call you quickly notice whether the chemistry is right.
What makes a wedding reportage
A reportage is the chronological record of your day, from the preparations to the party. The photographer stays with you throughout the day and captures every special moment: ceremony, portraits, dinner, celebration. The result is a memory of the whole day, from the ceremony to the party.
The photographic style
Every photographer has their own style, which you may like or not. Look at the website and blog and decide whether the visual language matches your taste. Important: ask to see at least one complete wedding. I bring three complete weddings to the get-to-know meeting, each as a finished album from getting ready to the party, exactly as the couples ordered them. You can get a first impression in my portfolio.
The length of coverage
The loveliest option is coverage from the preparations into the evening, including sunset and night. Some couples choose a first look before the ceremony, which creates more time for couple photos. Discuss expectations and schedule together. As an experienced photographer I give you tips on location, time of day and light, so the best results emerge.
When the wedding photos happen
Most couple photos happen at the shoot shortly after the ring exchange and the “I do.” Spread across the day, formal and informal shots are added, entirely to your taste. No need to worry about your guests: while we take the couple photos, they chat happily at the reception. A bar, a welcome drink or a little activity, say a live caricaturist, keeps them entertained in the meantime.
When you get the photos
Delivery times vary widely, from “immediately” to “a year later.” With me, the first preview images arrive the day after the wedding via a smartphone web app. Two weeks later I present all final photos and the first draft of your album. So your memories are ready when you return from the honeymoon.
Inform yourselves well, keep your budget in view and choose someone you feel comfortable with. If you like, send me your date and your venue: Inquire about your date. You'll hear from me personally within 24 hours.
