Working with the right photographer is essential for any event. Getting images with superior quality is not only about the equipment used but, more importantly, it's about the ability of the photographer to understand what you want to capture and enhance the vision without changing it.
Do your research and only contact those photographers whose portfolios look suitable for your event style and personality. Take a very close look at their gallery and see if their photography style resonates with you, who you are, and what your event is all about. In general, you will enjoy your event so much more if you choose a photographer that has a personality that will work with yours, has a style that is similar to yours, and a photographer that understands your vision.
Check their reviews. What are former clients saying about their services? Are they happy? Do the reviews sound genuine? Are they posted on a trustworthy website?
Ask questions! Once you schedule a meeting with your desired photographer, make sure to prepare a list of questions to ask. From style-related questions and suggestions for types of pictures to contractual questions, you need to be ready – so that you make sure you and your photographer are on the same page with everything.
Plan ahead! It’s always a good idea to have a Plan B as accidents and sickness happen. Precisely the reason why your photographer needs to have a Plan B in order, in case they cannot make it to the event. The last thing you want on event day is running around after that one friend who has a semi-professional camera and some photography skills, to ask him/her to be your photographer.
Follow your instinct. Does the photographer feel right? Can you communicate with them and would you be comfortable with them spending quite a bit of time to shoot pictures of you, possibly your loved ones, and your closest friends and relatives?
Whichever photographer you may choose, make sure to keep your eyes open and only work with those who have a lot of experience in capturing the moments you want. Choose the photographer you connect with, as opposed to a photographer who is very trendy. It is your vision, and you deserve to hire a photographer who understands you!