Choosing a Wedding Photographer

So you are engaged, congratulations! Now to start the planning process. The first few things you need to secure when planning your wedding are a Venue, celebrant, wedding photographer and videographer. These services are often booked out 1 year in advance and they need to be your priority, closely followed by your wedding dress and honeymoon. The other details are usually easy to come across during the planning process.

When it comes to choosing your wedding photographer firstly you need to set a budget, the cost of a professional photographer in Australia is usually between $1500 and $6000. There are many varying styles of photography, so find out what you like and start there.

For example if you love wedding photographers that use full lighting kits and have dramatic images or perhaps someone that is a natural light photographer start your search there. When it comes to affordable wedding photography it is all about value you for money, compare wedding photographer’s packages and check to see what inclusions they offer.

Typically most wedding photographers have their pricing and packages listed on their websites, you can compare what is the best value for money within the style of photography you are after.

If you are looking for a cheap wedding photographer you may need to start with a student or up and coming photographer that is building their portfolio and new to the industry.

Once you have narrowed it down to a few potential choices it’s time to email them and check their availability and set up a face to face meeting if possible. You will spend you entire day with your wedding photographer, so it is essential that you get along well and you are on the same page.

When you meet with your photographer there are some general questions that you can ask to make sure they are the right fit for you and your fiancé’

Q1. Do they offer the option of a second shooter?

This is important if you are looking to have the groom photographed or some different angles at the wedding, sometimes second shooters will stay and photograph the guests while you and your husband/wife have your bridal portraits taken.

Q2. How long will it usually take for you to receive your images?

This gives you an idea of how long you will be waiting after the wedding and it will put your mind at ease knowing this in advance.

Q3. What exactly is included and what do you have to pay extra for?

You need to know exactly what you will receive, some wedding photographers will give you an album with the option to purchase all the images as an add on. In other cases you may receive a USB of images or perhaps you will receive all your images printed but not as digital files. Be clear on what you are getting.

Q4. Ask to see a full wedding.

When you see a full wedding from start to finish this will give you a more realistic idea of how your chosen photographer shoots and what is typically captured, that way you know exactly the type of photography you will receive. Wedding Photographers websites often show off their best work only so keep this in mind.