The Dos and Don'ts of Hiring A Wedding Photographer

The Dos and Don'ts of Hiring A Wedding Photographer

As professional wedding photographers, we've seen it all when it comes to couples hiring photographers for their big day. Some couples come to us with a clear idea of what they want, while others are completely lost and have no idea where to start - and we've assisted both types of couples. To help you avoid any potential pitfalls, we've put together a list of dos and don'ts for hiring your wedding photographer.

DO: Research and compare photographers

Before hiring a wedding photographer, do your research. Look at their portfolio, read reviews, and compare pricing. Find a photographer who matches your style and personality, and who you feel comfortable with. We call it a vibe check - and it's very important.

DON'T: Hire based on price alone

While it's important to stay within your budget, don't let price be the only factor when hiring a wedding photographer. Remember that the photos are one of the few things that will last beyond your wedding day, so it's worth investing in a quality photographer.

DO: Ask for recommendations

Ask your friends, family, or other vendors for recommendations for wedding photographers they have worked with before. They may have great suggestions that you may have missed otherwise.

DON'T: Rush into a decision

Take your time when hiring a wedding photographer. Don't rush into a decision just because you feel pressured or because a photographer has limited availability. Make sure you're comfortable with the photographer, their style, and their work.

DO: Communicate your needs and wants

Communicate your vision and your needs with your photographer. This will ensure that they understand your expectations and can work with you to create the perfect wedding photos.

DON'T: Micromanage the photographer

While it's important to communicate your needs, avoid micromanaging the photographer. Trust that they know what they're doing and let them do their job. Some of the best photos you see are actually unplanned and happen in the moment.

DO: Consider engagement photos

Consider having engagement photos taken with your photographer before your wedding day. This will help you get to know each other better and will also give you some great photos to use for save-the-dates, wedding websites, and other wedding-related items. Our engagement photo session is completely complimentary - we feel it is so important to get to know each other that we offer this to our couples for free.

DON'T: Wait until the last minute

Don't wait until the last minute to hire a wedding photographer. The best photographers tend to book up quickly, so start your search as early as possible.

DO: Ask about their backup plan

Make sure your photographer has a backup plan in case of an emergency, such as illness or equipment failure. This will give you peace of mind on your wedding day. For instance, we have three photographers available for each wedding, so you'll always be covered, no matter what.

DON'T: Neglect to read the contract

Read the contract carefully before signing it. Make sure you understand all the terms and conditions, including what happens if the photographer cancels, what rights you have to your photos, and how long it will take to receive them.

In conclusion, hiring a wedding photographer is an important decision. By following these dos and don'ts, you'll be able to find a photographer who will capture your special day perfectly. And if you're still not sure where to start, don't hesitate to reach out to us at Lion of the Valley for recommendations and guidance.

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