A Picture Perfect Day

Selecting a PHOTOGRAPHER

Ask the Right Questions!

amandaketterhagenphotography.com

• Will you be taking the pictures? If not, can I meet him/her? • How long have you been a wedding photographer? • What packages do you offer?

What do they include? • Have you photographed at my ceremony or reception location before? • Do you offer online ordering? • Can we order additional prints later? • What happens if you are sick or have an emergency on my wedding day? • How far in advance must I book? • What is your cancellation policy? • Is a deposit required?

A PICTURE PERFECT DAY

finding a photographer that fits your style

Wedding photography is more than just documenting the event – it’s about capturing the spirit of the couple and their day. Choose a photographer whose style matches yours: Formal or traditional: Posed, color photos of you, the groom, your respective families, and the wedding party; all the classic moments will be captured.

Photojournalistic: Shot like a news event, capturing hundreds of candid moments and real emotions; more black and white photos for a timeless feel.

Artistic: Special effects used to create dramatic, one-of-a-kind pieces of art.

Many photographers offer a mix of these styles, so browse friends’ wedding albums, and surf professionals’ websites and blogs to find what speaks to you.

RESEARCH PHOTOGRAPHERS

Once you’ve established your style, it’s time to shop around. Collect referrals from friends, review wedding resources like Premier Bride, and scope out local photographers’ websites and blogs. Make a short list of potential photographers that specialize in the style you desire and that suits your budget. Then set up a consultation.

EVALUATE YOUR OPTIONS

Do I like their work? Make sure you see examples of individual photos and complete wedding albums so you know what to expect in the end. Some larger studios employ more than one photographer; find out exactly who will be shooting your wedding.

Do our personalities mesh? Of all your wedding vendors, the photographer is the one you’ll be working with most closely on your big day; it’s important that your personalities click. Am I staying within my budget? It’s disappointing to fall in love with a photographer’s work only to later discover their rates exceed your spending allowance. Do your best to meet only with photographers you can afford.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE

Most photographers offer “a la carte” or custom packages to meet your individual needs – just be sure to ask for specifics. Here are some examples of items that might interest you.

Bride & Groom’s Album: These vary in size, color, quality, and price; be sure to compare the size and photo quantity that various photographers offer.

Parents’ Albums: These will include prints that have been specially selected to create a custom photo book for each family.

Prints: Don’t underestimate how many extra prints you might want, as this will definitely impact your budget.

Proofs: Ask your photographer how many proofs you will get and in what format.

GET THE SPECIFICS

In your consultations, ask: When is a deposit required? Will online ordering be available for your guests? Download our Ultimate Planner online at premierbride.com/planning where you’ll find a list of questions to ask and a checklist of must-capture moments for guaranteed success. BOWTIEPHOTO.COM

ZACK@BOWTIEPHOTO.COM • @BOW_TIE_PHOTO

If your heart aches for beauty, love and adventure like ours do…we would be a great match

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