Wedding photographer don’ts - 6 pitfalls to avoid with choosing a wedding photographer.
Wedding photographer dont’s may sound like a negative topic. But it’s worth keeping in mind some of the pitfalls that brides and grooms can succumb to when looking to book or confirm a wedding photographer. Your wedding photography choice is important. Whilst every other detail of your big day is too it’s the photographs which will serve as the biggest memory. So getting it right is key. As well as taking away some of the stress of organising.
Don’t wait until the last minute to secure your wedding photographer.
There’s no question weddings take an awful lot of planning and preparation. It can be extremely overwhelming. And in some cases, details get missed. All is usually right on the day but putting off the bigger decisions - such as wedding photographer choices - is best avoided.
Don’t leave your wedding photographer choice until the last minute.
Having decided upon the venue, dress, food and entertainment choosing who you want to document proceedings is a wise move. There are lots of wedding photographers around. But it can be daunting knowing where to start. If you’re reading this article then beginning your search with James Jagger isn’t a bad idea. An initial conversation will give more insight and help you identify what you’re after. Even if James isn’t the best fit. Although we’re sure his approachability, friendliness and professionalism will shine through.
Wedding photographer deals and discounts - be wary.
Deals, discounts, offers and sales can be tempting. There are plenty of wedding photography agencies that operate in this way. And within the jumble of options, there may be a ‘best fit’ wedding photographer for you.
Be wary of discounts, deals, sales and offers.
Keep in mind though you want the best wedding photo results possible so it’s not always a good idea to cut back. Your cake, flowers and so on will long have disappeared whereas those essential wedding pics are the one enduring keepsake from your big day that you’ll be able to look back on for years to come. A more personalised service, at a sensible price, from a seasoned professional (such as James Jagger) is much more cost-effective than chasing a cheapie.
Venue recommendations and preferred suppliers.
There’s always a tie-in with businesses that work in similar spaces and areas. Wedding venues and wedding photographers are no different. There’s nothing underhand about a wedding venue recommending a photographer. But be aware that preferred suppliers might not fit your style and taste.
Preferred suppliers can be great, but don’t always fit your style, or vision.
Sometimes a better solution is to speak to an independent wedding photographer who can adapt and accommodate your wants and needs - such as James Jagger. The results may then be exactly what you’re after rather than having to simply make do.
Family member photographers.
Family members who fancy themselves as a dab hand with a camera may be a tempting choice of wedding photographer. Unless they’re actually a professional, however, it’s probably not the wisest move.
A professional wedding photographer is a pro for a reason.
Wedding photographers need to be on the ball, and ready to capture those fleeting shots. They’ll know their equipment inside out so won’t struggle with settings. And, there’ll be no temptation to enjoy the party as part of the family and thereby miss more wedding day moments. A seasoned professional like James Jagger is there to get the job done.
Make sure there’s a connection - meet and greet beforehand.
A professional and experienced wedding photographer will be part of your close circle on the day. They’ll be privy to many intimate moments as well as the wider, more public parts of a wedding. There needs to be a connection. You have to get on with the photographer and trust them.
Ever the approachable and friendly pro - James Jagger.
Meeting and greeting before your big day is a must. A few catch-ups to discuss your wedding day photography requirements are essential. You’ll get a handle on what type of person they are and whether there’s a match. Someone like James Jagger is very used to this kind of thing and has plenty of experience dealing with brides and grooms from all walks of life. It’s highly likely that you’ll hit it off which will take away some of the stress.
Do your wedding photographer research.
Wedding photography portfolios are one thing. But only tell some of the story when researching your wedding photographer. It’s always worth digging a little deeper to find out as much info as you can. After all, as already mentioned, there needs to be a good fit so an overall flavour of what they’re about and their previous work can give a better impression.
Doing your research is important.
Taking James Jagger as a case in point: he’s well-versed in photography outside of weddings. Whilst wedding photography is his bread and butter he’s also an adept sports event photographer, wildlife photographer, special commission photographer and is a part of the Alamy Live News Team who supply images to the national press. This wealth of experience is what you’d be getting if you booked James as your wedding day photographer.
Summing up.
There are lots of things to consider when looking to book a wedding photographer. Hopefully, this article helps steer you in the right direction. For more wedding day photography insight, tips and knowledge check out the following articles as well -
Wedding photography in the UK - 5 reasons James Jagger Photography is your best choice.
Surrey wedding photography - 6 pro tips to make your day go off with a bang
If you have any specific questions then please feel free to contact James here.