How To Choose A Wedding Photographer

There are so many photographers out there these days it is often hard to tell the good from the bad. You need to think about so many things when choosing your wedding photographer. The key to success is to do your research, ask lots of questions and see lots of there work. Photography isn't all about qualifications. Some of the best photographers in the world learnt there trade simply by having there camera in there hand so experience is king and can mean more than any degree or course.
Are they really a Pro?

While first setting up A.S Photography i did a small stint working as a manager in a high street camera store. On a daily basis i would have customers coming into me and asking the same shocking question. The question always went something like this, "I have seen these new cameras with them big lens things they look really good i think i want to be a wedding photographer what camera do i need?"This was fueled by digital SLRS coming into the market at a relatively low cost And all of a sudden there was 50 new wedding photography company's in the area all with there nice new SlRs in there hand and many offering rock bottom price on there wedding photography. Many even used a fake supplier example album as there portfolio i even went to a wedding show only to see the same album on 2 different stands with no link. Of course these company's never last, We photographers build our business on reputation and they soon get seen for what they really are.

The way to avoid these amateurs is to ask the right questions and if a price seems to good to be true as with most things it probably is. Many people are looking for value for money but looking for cheap wedding photography may not be the best option!

When you meet a photographer make sure you have a good look at there portfolio. Insure that the images you are being shown are from actual wedding, as some photographers will use models or even lesson days to show as their portfolio. Ask to see several weddings and to see the whole day.

A professional photographer will never mind any questions you ask and will always be happy to explain anything your unsure of so don't be afraid to ask questions and ask about there experience.
Free or cheap photography from a family member

So your uncle bob may have taken some nice shots of the family he may have an impressive camera and a selection of lens and filters but is he a pro? All the gear and no idea i believe is the phrase that fits photography over and over again. You need your photographer to have the skill to shoot the most important day of your life.

The idea of cheap wedding photography may again be attractive but mastering the skills of a wedding photographer can take years of practice and hands on experience and the last thing you want is to fall out with a family member when he does not produce what you expected.

Think of your wedding album purchase as an investment. Something you want to enjoy for years to come, often it is worth spending a little more to insure you get truly professional result. Set your self a reasonable budget and a professional wedding photographer will always try and build a package to meet your needs.
Traditional, Reportage, Contemporary What does it all really mean?

There are many buzz words flying around the wedding photography world right now relating to the style of photography provided. There is no right or wrong here its really down to what style fits you.

Reportage / Photo journalism: A reportage photographer will spend there time capturing natural images as they happen. Many of the images will happen without you even knowing. This is a great way to create a story of the day but you do run the risk of not getting a shot with your favorite auntie or the whole family together.

Traditional Photography: A traditional photographer will work on posed shots and family groups often positioning every last details. Sometimes these images can look false so try and find a photographer who helps you feel at ease.

Contemporary Photography: Ok so this is a term that could be used to describe many things. In this case i am going to use it to describe what i believe the modern photographer should be. Why tie yourself down to one style why not mix both. Many modern photographers now will create a mixture of posed shots, family photography and reportage story's giving you the full experience of your wedding.

Some photographers may only shoot in one style, and its down to you to choose what works best for your wedding.
The photographer

What could be the most important thing of all to think about when choosing your wedding photographer is often overlooked and that is simply do you like the photographer.

This person is going to spend almost the entire day with you so its important you have a good relationship with them and that they are going to be polite and friendly to your guests. At the same time you don’t want a shrinking violet at your wedding as some degree of group organization skills is needed especially at larger weddings. The key is sit down and have a chat with them is there a spark or chemistry between you. A good relationship is crucial. The photographer should be patient calm and most of all fun. Make sure you always have a meeting try and start casual conversation and get a feel of who they are.

If you would like to meet your A.S Photography wedding photographer simply give us a call or drop us an email. We will be happy to come and visit you at home for a chat with no pressure and no obligations.

Never underestimate the importance of your wedding photography. Ask the questions do your research and get the right person for your wedding.

Author: Andy Simpson, A.S Photography, Head Photographer Contemporary Wedding Photography in Milton keynes

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By Andy Warner-simpson
Andy Warner-simpson – A.s Photography

www.as-photography.co.uk/wedding-photographer-advice.h