Wedding Photography: Tips to Get Started
Get started on your way to memorable wedding pictures with these wedding photography tips and photography overview.
As one of the most important decisions you will make concerning the big day, planning your wedding pictures should be considered with care. We’ve compiled a list of wedding photography tips to get you started toward capturing these priceless memories:
Wedding Photography Tips
Select Your Wedding Photography Style
How do you envision your wedding photographs? Wedding photographers generally fall into three stylistic categories: traditional, photojournalist, or a combination of both. Traditional photographers are practiced in obtaining great portraits and posed shots. For more candid shots that document the day’s emotions and all the behind-the-scenes action, you may lean toward the photojournalistic style of photography (a hot trend for today’s weddings). For brides who simply cannot decide, seek a wedding photographer who can offer the perfect mix.
Consider the Wedding Photographer Cost
This really is one area in which you should avoid cutting corners, as your photographs will be one of the few keepsakes you can actually take from your wedding. Expect to allocate at least $1,000 to your wedding photography budget (the bottom line in metro areas will be even higher). If budget is a concern, consider ordering the most basic package, but avoid hiring an inexperienced photographer to save money. Consult our advice on how to save on photography for more budgeting tips
Hiring Your Wedding Photographer
Do your research. Browsing through our list of preferred local wedding photographers is a great way to start. Compile a list of potentials and commence the “meet and greet.” When meeting with potential photographers, be sure to review his or her work and remember to consider the importance of personality. Your photographer will capture some of the best shots behind the scenes, so you must feel comfortable in working with this person and inviting them backstage. Trust your instinct: If you find anything disagreeable about working with this person, keep looking. And don’t forget to get everything in writing. For more information on selecting your photographer, visit our Hiring a Wedding Photographer guide.
Plan the Wedding Pictures
Well before your wedding day, make sure you have considered the must-have photography shots and their execution. You should discuss these details with your photographer so that he or she will be familiar with the site location, the VIPs of the wedding (attendants, parents, etc.), and the best and most unobtrusive way to get these important shots.
Consider every aspect of your wedding day and how you would like it captured. From the pre-ceremony preparation, to your walk down the aisle, to your “I dos,” to your first dance, and finally to your departure, make sure to discuss the perfect shots for each special moment. Throughout the planning process, be in the lookout out for images that catch your eye, and consider bringing clips to your photographer. Browse the work of top photographers in our Real Wedding section.