Photography Do’s & Dont’s
Do your homework early: Ask for referrals. Some photographers get booked as early as 18 months in advance. If the photographer you wanted is booked, ask them who they would choose to shoot their wedding. If you get an early start, you can also score on better deals as photographers (as well as other vendors) often raise their rates yearly.
Don’t wait until the last minute to book your photographer: If you know who you want, give them a phone call at the least. It’s not a good feeling to fall in love with someone’s photography style only to find out they got booked the day after you met with them.
Do meet photographers in person: The web is a good tool for your initial research, but photography is not just a digital medium. It is meant to be printed and displayed, so it is wise to see the photographer’s work in person. This way you can also compare how consistent their work is in a broad range of media, as in via the web, enlargements, albums, etc.
Don’t look for the cheapest photographer: In contrast, I advise you to look for the best value. Photography is much like any service you buy, you really do get what you pay for most often than not. If you want a Mercedes Benz, don’t expect to pay Kia prices.
Do take advantage of the engagement session: Some photographers will include an e-session (as I do) with all their packages. Consider the product of this session as your first family portrait. It will be an invaluable heirloom as time passes. You will also get a chance to know your photographer and you will be much more prepared to work with them for your wedding. The photos you get from this session will also come in handy for the wedding itself, I’ve had many couples use their e-session photos for Save-The-Date cards, invitations, guestbooks, etc.
Don’t underestimate their personality: Meeting a photographer in person will also allow you to see how you vibe with them. Although I would not hire someone for their personality alone, this person will be with you the entire wedding. If you can’t stand them for 45 minutes, how much worse for an entire day.
Do consider a first look before the ceremony: Seeing each other for the first time before the ceremony in a private setting will give you a chance to let the moment sink in and communicate your thoughts with each other in a special way that can’t be done on the altar. It will also give you more flexibility in your schedule.
Don’t sweat the small stuff during the wedding: Mistakes happen in every wedding. Most of the time, they are the most memorable things and will make you smile (or grimace) when you look back at them. Plus, you don’t want to looked freaked out in your photos :)
Do kiss for a long time: It’ll give your photographer a chance to get a better shot, plus it’s fun!
Don’t trip down the aisle during the recessional: This one’s pretty self-explanatory.
Do consider installing event lighting during the reception: Although your photographer will carry their own flashes, event lighting gives your reception and dance floor a more dramatic presence and it shows well photos.
Don’t schedule long gaps between your main events during the reception: If there are big gaps between each event, you will have a harder time catching your guests’ attention. It might also work against you if you’re hiring vendors by the hour.
Do get an album: Picture this, you have your wedding photos in the computer. You have your wedding album on the coffee table or shelf. God forbid your house catches on fire, and you only have a split-second to save something from the inferno, what are you going to get, the computer or the wedding album?
Don’t go to bed angry: Always forgive each other, it’s good for your marriage.