Wedding Photography

by Raye Gillette-Whaley of Gillette Portrait Arts

How your special day is documented is one of the most important decisions that you will make. This is why your choice of a photographer is vital to ensuring your memories will last a lifetime.

Your photographer is one of the first vendors you should book. Having adequate time before your event also allows you to get to know your photographer which is an important asset once your wedding day arrives.

Before selecting possible candidates, figure out what kind of photography you want. Typically there are 2 types of wedding photography styles. First is the more traditional posed method and then there is the more spontaneous photojournalistic approach. Your personal style will help you decipher what approach you’re looking for.

Once you’ve narrowed the field, start looking. There are many ways to search — the Internet is a great place to start. Most photographers have websites filled with their images in addition to important information such as the studio’s philosophy and price packages. Even though you may fall in love with a certain photographer’s style, keep looking until you’ve investigated all options — keep in mind how important this decision is. Wedding shows and Bridal Expos are also an excellent way not only to see the work but to meet the photographer in person and pose your specific questions there and then.

Here are some suggested questions:

1. Where did you receive your training? While natural talent is a very important part of mastering the craft, photography is a technical art and requires more than a passing knowledge of the basics.
2. Why do you like to photograph weddings?Your wedding is a once in a lifetime and highly emotional event. Your photographer should share your enthusiasm and expectations.
3. May I see a proof album and a final album? Many photographers have a “best of” selection to highlight their favorite work. This is great, but you need to see a wedding from beginning to end. Final albums vary in style and design — see everything your photographer offers and inquire about the difference in prices.
4. Will you be shooting my wedding? Some professionals employ other photographers so their studio can cover multiple events on the same day. If you’re not sitting down with the individual who will be doing the photography, reschedule the interview for a later date with the appropriate person. Ensure that your contract reads the name of the photographer you’ve chosen.
5. What equipment do you use? A standard rule for all professionals is to arrive at your event with two to three cameras and adequate back ups for everything from film and flash cards to extra batteries, flashes and charges. Many photographers are going digital — if so ask to see an enlargement of a digital image to ensure that they are using top of the line equipment. The enlargements should be sharp, clear and with little to no grain.
6. How will I receive my proofs? Proofs are what you will view when choosing final prints for your finished album. Online posting is becoming popular because couples can view the images from home on their own time. Other photographers hold a slide show at their studio for couples to see their proofs, while others supply the bride and groom with proof albums of the prints.
7. When will we be able to see the proofs? Most photographers can have your proofs ready when you return from your honeymoon. It’s also wise to inquire about a timetable for your completed album.
8. What if you can’t make it to our wedding? Every couple’s nightmare is having a vendor fall through on the big day. Hopefully this has never happened to your professional but things such as illness and car trouble do happen. However unlikely it may be, the photographer should have a plan in place should the unthinkable occur.

Find everything you need in our Professional Wedding Directory.