A Guide to Choosing the Right Wedding Photographer

Your photographer is arguably one of the most important elements of your wedding day. They are tasked with preserving the essence of your special day and freezing those heartfelt moments into timeless images. So, how do you ensure you pick the perfect photographer to entrust with such a monumental task? I’ve teamed up with the incredibly talented Gina Fernandes to get some extra info to help you on the way.

Understanding Your Style

Every couple has a unique vision for their wedding day, and finding a photographer who aligns with that vision is paramount. Are you drawn to classic, posed portraits, or do you prefer a more candid, documentary-style approach? Understanding your preferred style will help narrow down your search and find a photographer who can capture the essence of your wedding day authentically.

Documentary style wedding photography has become incredibly popular and is all about capturing the raw, unscripted moments that unfold naturally throughout the day. Gina says “Natural wedding photography is my jam. My way of working means that your photos are unposed and cheese-free. I document your day unobtrusively so I can capture all the funny and romantic wedding moments naturally, and let you get on with having an amazing day”.

Research and Recommendations

Start your search for a wedding photographer by browsing through portfolios online and asking for recommendations from friends, family, and other wedding vendors. Pay close attention to the photographer's previous work, looking for consistency in style, quality, and storytelling ability. Reading reviews and testimonials can also provide valuable insights into past clients' experiences and satisfaction levels. Gina says “Nine times out of ten, couples who reach the talking point with me have explored a lot of my website or social media content to get a feel for me and know that I am the right fit for them.”

Reviewing Packages and Pricing

When evaluating photographers, consider not only their artistic talent but also their pricing and package offerings. Be clear about what is included in each package, such as hours of coverage, number of photographers, and delivery of final images. Remember that your wedding photos will be cherished for a lifetime, so prioritize quality and value over budget alone.

Gina says: “My most popular package has to be the all-day package. The one where you've got me from the getting ready in the day right through to the evening dancefloor. This means the couple can relax and not worry if things run over, or if it rains and the day gets slightly re-scheduled because of it. They can just relax into the day and know I am there to document it and am not on a time limit.”

Advice from a Seasoned Photographer

I asked Gina for her top tips when it comes to finding the right wedding photographer for you.

“Portfolio, Personality, and Prices - in that order. 

First thing when looking for a photographer: make sure their photos are actually something you like. You like the composition, the colours and the types of photos they take. 

 Then it's about the personality of the photographer. This person is potentially going to be with you for around 10-14 hours and be with you during some emotional times! If you want those natural photos then they've got to be able to blend in with family and friends, so you don't notice them. You've got to know you can have them at your wedding, they'll fit in, and that you actually want them there.

 Then once the above boxes are ticked, it's time to look at price, your budget, and ultimately your priority for your day. For many who invest in me, photography is a priority - it's not an afterthought or an 'I suppose we better get one' type of situation. It's a considered decision and a willing investment. If you know you love the work of a photographer, you like who they are, you'll find that their price will be worth paying for (just like 'THE' dress!)”

 Insights from a Wedding Planner

As a wedding planner, I can guide my couples in finding the perfect photographer for their special day. My recommendations play a significant role in this process, as couples trust my opinion of firsthand experience with a photographer's work. For example, if you are a couple who feel really uncomfortable around a camera, my recommendations will be based around photographers who I know can create that feeling of ease, and the be the hype person you need on the day!

Making the Final Decision

After thorough research, meetings, and consideration, the most important thing is to trust your instincts! Choose the photographer who not only possesses the technical skills and artistic vision but also shares your enthusiasm for capturing the magic of your wedding day. With the right photographer by your side, you can rest assured that your wedding memories will be preserved in stunning imagery for generations to come.

If you’re unsure of where to start, get in touch so I can start to make some expert recommendations and help you find “the one”.

All images supplied and taken by Gina Fernandes Photography