There are countless articles on the internet about how (not) to choose a wedding photographer. So today, I’ll approach the topic from a slightly different angle.
How (not) to choose your
I’d like to offer you some tips and show you what to expect if you choose me as your wedding photographer. I’m not saying that everything I do is perfect or will suit everyone, but that’s exactly where the magic lies! Each of us is unique, and that’s why you need to find the right person who can capture your wedding the way you truly envision it.
A good question to start with is:
WHY DO COUPLES CHOOSE ME?
It’s because they don’t feel too comfortable in front of the camera. They’re looking for someone who can capture them authentically – they’re not big fans of posed photos, prefer warm tones, and appreciate a relaxed atmosphere.
It’s important to really think this through: Do you prefer this style of photography, or are you drawn to current trends, cool tones, dark shades, or something else? Take a look at the photographer’s galleries on their website. Focus on those who showcase full wedding series with at least 80 photos, not just a handful of selected shots.
The First Contact with the Photographer
The first step in starting cooperation with a photographer is always an inquiry, which I recommend submitting via the contact form on their website or by email. A phone call isn’t the best for an initial contact, as the photographer might be busy and unable to provide complete information. In your inquiry, it’s best to include:
- Full name and contact details
- Wedding date and exact location
- How you know the photographer or where you found them
- A message explaining why you like their work, a bit about the two of you, and your ideas for the wedding (size, travel, preferences, etc.)
Based on this inquiry, I will respond with a price offer, send a questionnaire, and a draft contract. Why the price only now? Because I advise that it’s not ideal to prioritize price first. The photos are one of the few things that will remain from your wedding, and it’s not worth cutting corners. The questionnaire is the first step in better understanding your wishes, mood, and expectations. At the same time, I may ask for additional details regarding the wedding schedule. Next is an optional pre-wedding meeting, where we can get to know each other better.
TIP: Never skip the pre-wedding meeting! It’s another step to discover if the personalities of the client and the photographer “match.” It’s better to find someone else in advance than to realize on the wedding day that there’s a certain lack of chemistry. If possible, come with your partner.
After that, the contract is signed if everything is agreed upon, which I always require, and I recommend you place emphasis on it as well! What should it roughly include?
- Exact price, description of the service, and any additional services
- Date and location
- Delivery date for the photos, their quantity, and method of delivery (I deliver the photos via an online gallery within 17 business days, and a bit later we arrange for the handover of a box with printed photos and a flash drive.)
- Options for cancellation of the contract
- License, conditions, and terms for using the photos (Can the photographer use the photos for their own portfolio or promotion?)
- Other points that we agree upon
Before the wedding, we can also meet for an engagement shoot, which is a great opportunity to get a closer look at the photographer's work, get used to the camera, and capture some beautiful photos. Some brides are also interested in a boudoir shoot as a gift for their future husband.
And here it is – the WEDDING DAY!
Tip: Make sure the photographer has enough equipment and backs up the photos. A professional should have backup gear and precautions in place to prevent data loss. For example, I carry three cameras, several lenses, plenty of batteries, and shoot directly to two memory cards. This minimizes the risk of loss. After returning home, I back up the photos to two hard drives and keep the memory cards until the wedding is fully delivered.
I arrive at the location earlier to familiarize myself with the surroundings. On this day (and even outside of it), I am not just a photographer, but also a partner who will help and advise you. I strive to be your reliable guide in capturing those most precious moments.
In the morning, I’m often part of the preparations, which I recommend doing with your parents as well. Some moments may hold more significance for them than you might think. At the same time, I capture various details, jewelry, and the dress. You may have read somewhere that it’s a good idea to make a list of all the photos you want to take throughout the day. Honestly, that’s not the best idea. If you feel the need to write such a list, it’s likely that you don’t fully trust your photographer, and at that moment, it might be better to look for someone else.
I don’t disrupt the preparations or the entire day in any way. I capture moments as they naturally unfold in front of my lens. I’m not a film director, so I won’t send the bridesmaids out of the bride’s preparation room just because of limited space, nor will I have the groom change outfits ten times.
Tip: Clarify which parts of the day you want to have captured in photos. Most photographers offer different packages based on the length of the shoot. For example, during the main wedding season, I offer 8 or 12 hours (with the option to extend). However, each photographer may have different options. Take a look at their offer and see if it aligns with your expectations.
Recently, a cameraman told me that he absolutely dislikes church ceremonies… he says they’re too long. I feel the opposite! Although I’m not religious, I see the wedding ceremony as an important transitional ritual, a symbolic gesture. It’s a moment that connects not only the bride and groom but also everyone present, and it deserves more than just 3 minutes.
So, pay attention to these personality traits. If a photographer is bored by this type of ceremony, they’re probably not the right choice for a couple who values it. It’s important to find someone who is on the same wavelength.
After the ceremony, I usually take group photos, but it's up to you. Don’t let anyone pressure you! If you’d like, you can make a list of the groups you’d like to photograph and send it to me in advance. This will speed up the entire process.
TIP: Is your photographer a good organizer? And is it important to you that they are? Gathering people for a few group photos isn’t always easy—especially when guests wander off or have other plans. Check references to see if any brides have praised the photographer for this or, conversely, mentioned the opposite. Good organization in these moments can save time and reduce stress.
I usually take the newlyweds for portrait photos in the evening, during sunset. This is because the sunlight is softer and the atmosphere is more relaxed. Many guests won’t even notice we’ve stepped away. The photo session usually lasts about half an hour, but it’s up to you. Some couples want just one photo, while others give me an hour because they want more options, and it takes time to relax and feel comfortable.
During the photoshoot, I chat with you and try to create a relaxed atmosphere. You don’t have to worry about standing in one place and just lifting your leg. Instead, you’ll probably laugh, get to know each other more, and have a moment to relax away from the guests. Does that sound like something you'd enjoy? Or do you prefer more polished poses?
Throughout the day, I mostly capture candid moments and don’t create artificial situations. I use a flash only in the evening during the wedding party. I try to blend in with the guests, become part of the event, rather than just being an observer.
TIP: What type of photographer will suit you – an introvert or an extrovert? Do you want someone who blends into the crowd and captures moments without you even noticing, or would you prefer a quiet observer who keeps a distance? Or maybe an energetic person who sparks the fun and isn’t afraid to crack a sharper joke (yes, there are photographers like that too)? Think about what kind of atmosphere will feel more natural to you – the photographer is an integral part of the wedding day, and their energy will also influence yours.
DELIVERY OF PHOTOS
Within a week of the wedding, you will receive a preview with several photos. All the final edited photos will be available to you within 17 business days (unless otherwise specified in the contract) in high resolution in a personal online gallery. This gallery also serves as a backup for 1 year. Every wedding is unique, so I can’t guarantee a specific number of images, but it has never happened that newlyweds asked for more than they received! I guarantee at least 300 photos from a full-day shoot. In the fall/winter, we will also exchange a photo box with a flash drive and printed photos. If you wish, I’d be happy to prepare other photo products for you, such as a photo album.
TIP: Ask the photographer how many photos you will receive in total, how many will be edited (or unedited), and what kind of retouching they offer. Even if they, like me, don’t give you an exact number, they should guarantee at least a minimum amount. It’s important to clarify this beforehand so you’re not surprised, for example, if small skin adjustments for someone are not included in the price. It’s also good to find out if there’s an extra charge for not having the gallery featured in their portfolio (for me, clients do not pay extra for not having their photos published). Transparency will save a lot of unnecessary misunderstandings.
