Selecting the perfect wedding photographer can be a daunting and overwhelming task, but there are ways to make sure that you walk away comfortable and happy with your decision.

Here are my tips on how to make this happen.

1. Set a style expectation, before your budget.
When you start to search for a photographer you will find that they range anywhere from $500 to $10,000. So it is important to set a certain budget level, but at the same time don’t let yourself be governed by it.

Generally with photography, you get what you pay for. Be it experience, quality, on the day knowledge, and after market products and service.

It is important to look around at styles you like before coming up with your budget. Look at pricing for that particular style and the calibre of photographers that you like. Then, only spend what you feel comfortable with for your coverage. It might mean reducing your photographer’s hours to get someone that you really, really like.

If you can’t afford the style of photography you really like, look at changing your date to an off-peak season.

2. Ask your photographer lots of questions.
This is probably one of the biggest investments you will make on the day, so go to your meeting/skype date or phone chat prepared. Here is a list of questions that I would set aside to bring up;
- How long have you been a wedding photographer?
- Do you work with an assistant, or have back up camera gear?
- Do we receive the high-resolution copyright after the day?
- What are your payments terms?
- What happens if something happens and you can’t make it on the day?
- Will they be the photographer on the day?
- What is included in the package, and are there any additional costs to think about?
- Do they have some full weddings that they can show you from start to finish?

3. Make sure you get along.
You will be spending the better part of the day with your chosen photographer/s. Make sure you click, and will enjoy having them around.

4. Plan ahead
Good photographers can book out 12-18 months in advance. Some also only take on a limited number of weddings per year. So as soon as you set your date start to research which photographers you like and start to put the feelers out.

Take your time researching and looking for a photographer to suit your style and your day. There are so many fabulous photographers out there, so make sure that one of them is part of your wedding team!

Good luck,
Kristy x

Kristy is based on the Tweed Coast and covers weddings from the Sunshine Coast to Bryon Bay, and around Australia. You can view her work here – www.figtreepictures.com.