Once you’ve decided you like a photographer’s visual style (see this post), it’s time to find out their work style. This person is going to be up close and personal with you on what is ultimately a fairly stressful day (even though it’s a good stress).

Meet with several photographers and spend a little time with them. Review their experience and their portfolios with them. Ask for references; if they take epic pictures but are a pain to work with, you might want to pass on this added stress.

Are they a solopreneur or part of a studio with several freelance or staff photographers? Let them know your preferences about the type of photographer you want to work with. Make sure the photographer has experience shooting the style you’re after.

Are you comfortable with this person?

Be sure to ask about:

• Who will be doing the actual photography the day of the wedding, especially if from a group studio
• Whether and how they work with videographers; this dynamic is important as each needs to work get what they need without interfering with the other trying to get what they need
• Finished samples of work similar to what you are looking for, preferably at the venue you’ve selected (are they familiar with the location’s lighting, for instance)
• What’s included in their packages/pricing *
• Cancellation policies and payment schedule (can you meet that schedule? If there’s a postponement or cancellation, and the photographer isn’t available on your new date, can you get your investment back, less the retainer fee?)
• Any guarantees of their work
• What time they’ll start and finish
• How soon you’ll receive your images, album ordering process, etc.

* Packages vary – sometimes wildly – among photographers, and might include an engagement session, or albums, or wall art… or just their time and talent. Do their packages have what you want? Do you get all the best digital files automatically? Or do you order them individually and pay per photograph? Are professional prints included? Can you get duplicates for family members? Is there an online gallery for them to order for themselves? Is there any deviation allowed if you want something different? What is the pricing for each of these? Most photographers should allow you to lock in with the lowest package and upgrade later; they may not offer downgrades.

These decisions can take a lot of thought on your part ahead of time… and a good photographer will walk through it all with you. If they aren’t willing to answer your questions or won’t accommodate minor changes (requested well ahead of time; please don’t ask for adjustments at the last minute… think months, not days), you might want to consider hiring someone else. Your photographer should make you feel confident that you’ll have great evidence of this Best Day Ever.

Abby & James at Alvis FarmsCapturing quiet moments together.

Personally, I’m all about the elopement or microwedding – maybe a handful people on a random afternoon, for just a couple of hours. I’m a hybrid of posed formal shots and lots of photojournalistic “ninja” candids. My packages are all listed online; custom options are available. Two include an Engagement shoot, which can be very helpful for getting to know each other better and getting you and your partner more comfortable in front of the camera. Any of my pre-wedding sessions (engagement, bridal, boudoir) are available a la carte, if you want to “try before you buy,” with the session fee credited to your package if you decide to hire me for your wedding coverage.

This service is one you want to book early. Once you have a venue and date, lock it in! Your pix will last your lifetime together and beyond. Make ‘em good.

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Women are multi-faceted, and I love helping them share images that show their authentic, beautiful, confident shine! How do you want to be photographed? Let's meet over coffee and talk about it. Contact me: text/call 434-226-0365 or email [email protected].