#SMPWedding101 – Finding Your Perfect Photographer From a Planner’s Perspective

Wedding planners are the keepers of all the inside knowledge; they’ve seen it all. So who better to ask for input on finding the perfect fit when it comes to your photographer – and all vendors for that matter. Having worked with brides for the past 10 years, Danelle Elder of Classic Events knows what’s really important when making that decision so you’re guaranteed to smile looking back for years to come.

Professionalism

In this day and age anyone can wield a camera or hang up their “hat” online as a wedding photographer – but what you really need on your wedding day is a professional. Do your research. Look around and interview at least three vendors face to face if you can. They (beside your day of planner) will be the person you spend the most time with on your wedding day, so you have to make sure you like them personally. If you don’t feel comfortable with your photographer and their level of professionalism, you won’t feel comfortable on your wedding day – and it will show in your photos!

Works of Art:

Photography is art – so like any medium you have to be attracted to it and it has to evoke emotion. Make sure the photographer you choose is producing work that speaks to you. Imagine yourself in their photographs; does it feel like how you want to look on your wedding day? Can you see yourself going through your album in years to come and seeing photos that feel timeless? Everyone wants that one perfect shot to frame for their home. Make sure the person you choose to capture your special day produces art that you will enjoy for years to come.

Style Match:

Clients sometimes make the mistake of choosing a photographer that doesn’t match their style. They feel pressured to make a decision and secure their vendors. So make sure to ask yourself: do you see the day captured in a more formal portrait style? Or do you want your photographer to do glamour shots? What about just downright casual and fun? Each photographer has their own unique style and it should match your sensibility. Remember: it is YOUR day!

Shot List

After you find and hire the perfect photographer you still must ensure you get those images you really want so create a shot list. The photographer needs to know what, and more importantly, who is important to you on the wedding day. Spend some time two months before the wedding thinking about how you want your day to be captured. Do you want a single shot with each of your bridesmaids? Or is a group shot good enough for you? Do you want that big college photo with all your school friends at the reception? Your photographer needs to know and plan time for that.

Details. Details. Details

And we can’t forget about showing all those details off, right? Remember when you were doing your research and poured over all the wedding blogs and magazines? Why not submit yours? In order to have the best chance of getting published, make sure your photographer knows to capture all the pretty. The must list: your invitation suite from the Save the Dates to the stamps, florals, food, shoes and accessories, and of course any special touches that make the wedding day your own. Every little detail. And don’t forget to get as many photographs as you can in natural light. Those always look the most beautiful!

Memories.Memories.Memories:

As time passes and your memory fades, your photographs will be the most important heirloom you have. We always tell our clients that their photo album enables them to relive the magic of their wedding day. Your photographer is solely responsible for capturing those precious timeless memories – so choose wisely!

ONGOING GIVEAWAYS + DISCOUNTS…  

Framebridge

Nambe

We’re excited to share that Shine invitations is currently offering FREE SHIPPING on orders over $500 (US orders only) as well as a free sample kit featuring the invitation of your choice, color charts, paper samples, and an example Save the Date! Don’t miss out!

THIS WEEK’S DISCOUNTS…

For our California Brides… Discounts from The Ranch at Laguna Beach and Weddings by Susan Dunne

For our Tri-state Brides… Discount from Femina Photo + Design and don’t miss the Galia Lahav Trunk Show at Bridal Reflections (May 12th – May 15th)!

For our Destination Brides… Discount from Hitch’d Weddings & Events

For our Southeast Brides… Discount from Cassidy Carson Photography

For our Canadian Brides… Discount and giveaways for ReBash happening May 15th!

OUR WINNERS:

Congratulations to our Minted winner Alexis Chait!

Event Planning Advice: Classic Events NYC