Hiring a Wedding Photographer – Costs, Location and More

“We’ll leave that in your hands.”

Brides and grooms who say this to a photographer often don’t realize that many problems can arise when they prefer to leave everything to the professional.

Big mistake.

Experienced photographers know that couples who make vague requests are often the ones who create the most trouble. By not being specific about their preferences, they give photographers free rein, only to feel disappointed when the photos are delivered.

What’s the #1 rule here? Know what you want! A wedding requires careful and lengthy planning. It is stressful, to say the least, so think about what photos you want before you even contact a photographer. Remember, professional photographers are typically booked six months in advance. While some may accept bookings with as little as three months’ notice, you may find a few who can accommodate you on short notice—if there’s space in their schedule.

To recap, bear in mind these two essential factors, and you’ll solve half the problem:

• Have a clear idea of what you want your photographer to do,
• Book him at least six months in advance.

In addition to these, there are other details that require your attention. While they might seem insignificant compared to the big moments like the ceremony and reception, remember that your photographer will be capturing the memories of one of the most important days of your life.

Hiring a Wedding Photographer: Consider Budget and Personality

You want to ensure you get your money’s worth. If you decide to hire a top-tier photographer—someone recommended by many of your friends—you’ll still want to set a budget. The going rate in certain parts of North America can be around $10,000 for a full package. This typically includes a wedding album with stunning layouts and personalized design. However, many excellent photographers charge less. The price depends on your preferences and desires, which is why it’s crucial to know exactly what you want right from the start. Essentially, it’s about giving your photographer a detailed job description and asking for a quote based on that.

While it may feel like a hassle to visit the photographer’s studio in person and conduct an interview, it’s important not to rely solely on a friend’s referral or a quick look at the photographer’s website. A studio visit is worthwhile, especially if the estimate is on the higher end. After all, you’re the one signing the check, so you want to be certain that the photographer will deliver as promised.

The Photographer’s Studio Will Play a Major Role in Your Decision:

• Is his studio well-equipped, with neatly organized displays of past wedding photos, or are the pictures scattered on the floor, hanging from the ceiling, or haphazardly pinned to a corkboard?
• Is the equipment up-to-date, well-maintained, and adequate for both indoor and outdoor wedding settings?
• Does he work with one or more assistants?
• Does the overall impression of the studio convey professionalism?

If you’re satisfied with the studio, you’ll want to discuss his fees:

• What packages does he offer, and what’s included in each?
• Does he charge for overtime?
• Does he offer a budget package for those who can’t afford extra expenses? How many hours does this package include?
• Is there a payment plan available?
• What is his cancellation and refund policy?
• Will there be additional charges for negatives, albums, or extra services?

Detailed Instructions Are Key

Although it may seem like nitpicking, paying attention to the “small details” can save you and your photographer a great deal of frustration. Help your photographer by providing a detailed list of what you want, and just as importantly, what you don’t want. We’ve heard stories of couples who regretted not offering enough information to their photographer, only to realize afterward that the photographer could have done a much better job if they had given him “EWDs” – Early Warning Devices!

For example, have you thought of the following?

• The logistics: The photographer needs to know the names, addresses, and directions to all the wedding sites: the bride’s house, pre-church shots, the church, reception venue, and any stops along the way (perhaps a lake the bride is sentimental about, especially if her future husband nervously dropped the ring there during the proposal).
• Formal or casual dress? Inform your photographer in advance if it’s going to be a casual beach wedding so he doesn’t show up in a stiff, formal tuxedo.
• Wedding size: By telling your photographer the expected turnout, he’ll know how to frame his shots. He can decide whether to capture “a little of everything” or focus solely on the ceremony or reception.
• A list of shots: Your photographer will appreciate a specific list of shots you want, such as, “Make sure to get a close-up of Aunt Maggie when we kiss.”
• Table shots: Photographers know that many guests take candid shots with disposable cameras. By telling your photographer to focus solely on the bridal party, you might save some money on your final bill.
• “I don’t want”: Tell your photographer what you want to avoid. For example, group shots with both families or photos of guests who look too seductive, drunk, or out of place.
• Focusing on one segment: If you feel the ceremony is more important than the reception (or vice versa), let the photographer know. For example, you can ask him to limit the shots of the ceremony to a dozen and take more at the reception.

Here’s an “aide-memoire” you can provide your photographer to make sure he knows exactly what you want:

Bride’s house: Bride getting dressed
Bride with mom and dad on their way to the limo
Picture of the flowers and the wedding dress

Outside the Church: Bride and father going up steps of the church
Groom arriving
Best man arriving

Church: Front and second pews
Pastor officiating
When the cord is draped over the bride and groom

Bride and groom right after the ceremony, posing on the church steps
Parents of the bride and groom leaving the church
Bridesmaids

Reception: Line-up (25 shots)
Presidential table
Toasts and speeches
Dancing

Even a basic list like this will help the photographer do his job more efficiently and effectively.

What may seem trivial to you is a goldmine of information for him. Plus, since you’re footing the bill, it’s worth your time!

And Finally…

When hiring a photographer, ask if they can do black-and-white photos, and whether all of their photos will be digitalized. There’s a growing trend for wedding photos to be partially shot in black and white. When well-executed, these photos capture dramatic effects—shadows, hues, and tones—that color photos can’t match.