How to Choose the Right Photographer - IRENE JONES PHOTOGRAPHY blog at BridesClub.com

Every photographer is different. Each has a specific style that is unique to them, a variety of different products, and every one of them is priced differently. So how is anyone supposed to make an informed decision? I suggest using the following formula to help you make a decision.

1. Look at as many photographers as you can, and take notes on what you like. If you donﾒt know what you like, then work on eliminating what you donﾒt. Be prepared to look and thousands of photos, and if possible ask to see an entire wedding from start to finish. Can you imagine yourself in those photos? If not, move on.
2. Decide what products you would like. Every photographer offers a variety of different options, but the most common are photo albums, DVD slideshows, enlargements, announcements, etc. Do not let a photographer, your mother-in-law, memories of your best friendﾒs wedding, or budget persuade you on this step. Youﾒll have plenty of time to figure that out later.
3. Now that you know what you like and what you want, itﾒs time to get educated. You now need to figure out the logistics of working photography into your wedding day. Decide how much time you want to spend doing family portraits, and then double it. It might help to write down a list of photographs youﾒd like to come away with after the wedding. It will help you and your chosen photographer to give you an accurate price and avoid additional unforeseen charges.
4. This is where the money comes in. Review the prices of your favorite photographers to get an idea of what most photographers are charging. WARNING: Price and quality are not equivalent! Just because a photographer charges $7,000 does not mean he/she is the best photographer for you. It simply means he/she thinks she is the best. Additionally avoid photographers that offer their services at deeply discounted rates. Those advertising bargain basement prices might not feel their product is worth the money, or they simply donﾒt understand the market they are trying (and failing) to compete in. On average be prepared to spend $1,500-$4,500 for a wedding package. Albums, prints and all other accessories might be additional. Now is a good time to review your wedding budget and if necessary adjust to fit the needs you determined in step 1 and 2. Please keep in mind that old clich￩ that your wedding photos and video are the only thing you take away (in addition to your spouse) from the wedding day. Itﾒs repeated so often because itﾒs true!
5. Now comes that hard part, you need to make appointments with the photographers that have the following: great work (step 1), the right products (step 2), they are available for the time you need on your wedding day (step 3) and they fit your budget (step 4). Donﾒt be afraid to see 10 or 15 photographers at this point, but beware that each appointment should at least take an hour. If you canﾒt meet them all face to face, a long phone call should work, but nothing will give you more insight then sitting down with him/her over a cup of coffee.
6. Since you have already established what you want in steps 1-4, your mission during your appointment with your photographer is to find out who has the best customer service and personality. Look for a photographer you get along with! If you donﾒt like the person generally, why invite them to your wedding? Find out how they treat their customers, and donﾒt be afraid to ask for client references or testimonials. Make sure they have a time schedule for when they will deliver your purchased products and hold them to it! You shouldnﾒt have to wait 2 years to get your wedding album. (It happens-more often then youﾒd believe). Read every term and condition of their contract and know your payment schedule. If they donﾒt have a contract and they want everything now, RUN! Donﾒt be afraid to ask to see their business license if you feel the need. Most of all make sure they have your best interest at heart.
7. Book your photographer right away! If you wonﾒt put down a deposit, chances are someone else will!