You’re engaged… now what?

It’s that time of year, and finding the right wedding photographer for you can be difficult.  There are a lot of questions you should be asking – and some might not be so obvious.  This article just scratches the surface to help you know how to find the right engagement photographer.

What should I look for in a photographer?  

That’s definitely a good place to start.  Do your research as well BEFORE reaching out to a photographer to make sure you aren’t wasting you or the photographer’s time.

Check out the portfolio – you will most likely notice a specific style in their work.  For me, I tend to cater to my individual clients versus throwing the same type of filter to everyone’s images.  It just depends – do you want someone who will listen to your creative input or do you want someone to completely take the reigns.  If you aren’t thrilled with the portfolio, chances are you won’t be thrilled with your photos.

Delivery.  See what kind of additional services they offer.  How do you receive only digital files?  Is retouching included?  How about printing, is that an option?  If you are spending the money, you want to make sure you feel as if the price is worth it and know the answer to those kinds of questions.  Most of us photographers, including myself, work with exceptional quality print shops and can give you prints right from an online gallery of photos!  (It’s AH-mazing and super convenient.)

When should I book my engagement session?

Some people like to start doing an engagement session right after the question is popped.  That’s fine!  Others like to wait until they have a set date, and that can be a better choice because you can incorporate the theme of your wedding in your engagement pictures.  Everyone is different so there is no right or wrong answer.  What I can tell you is that you should definitely try to give yourself some wiggle room, because weather can always be testy.

Should I use the same photographer for my engagement as my wedding?

Yes yes yes!   I highly encourage my couples to designate one photographer to follow through with their engagement photography session and wedding day together for several reasons:

One: trial and error. It gives you a chance to work together to make sure your photographer is the right fit for your wedding!  A botched engagement session can be redone, but your wedding day doesn’t get a “re-do”.  It’s almost like a trial run to make sure you’ve made the right choice.

Two: bondage.  (no, not that kind….) Shooting with your photographer for your engagement photos allows everyone to feel comfortable working together on the big day – when it REALLY matters.  Um hello – bonus hangout time!  I think it’s so important for me to create a bond with my couples because I will be all up in your business on your wedding day (you’ll thank me after, I promise…) and we don’t want any awkwardness or shyness to hinder you from really showing your emotions!

Three: consistency!  Many photographers have their own way of editing your photos.  I personally try cater to each couple’s style and take into consideration what your wedding theme is or what you are trying to show.  For example, a vintage style session and a high-fashion style session would have very different finished looks, and it’s important to make sure your photographer is aware of your needs – because everyone’s engagement should be unique to their own amazing personalities!

Engagements In conclusion…

Do your research.  Your engagement and wedding photographs will be entirely dependent on your choice of photographer, so many sure you find someone that fits.  Whether you’re the kind of couple who need a lot of creative direction or have everything planned out to a tee, there is a photographer out there for you and trust me, they can’t wait for you to contact them!