Choosing a wedding photographer can seem like an overwhelming task! There are so many options in terms of style, price, packages, the list goes on … if you don’t have a personal referral from a recent bride, how can you even begin sorting through your pinterest page to find the right Charleston wedding photographer?
I’ve dealt with this issue first hand and want to help you get started in the easiest way possible, so here are a few questions that you need to ask when choosing a photographer:
1. Do you have a current portfolio?
Most photographers have a website or at least a Facebook page, but you need to make sure that the images displayed were taken by the specific photographer you’re speaking with and that they are of recent weddings.
2. Do you have a second shooter and if not, what’s the back-up plan?
Life happens, but you can’t just “reschedule” your first kiss at the altar! Know what the photographer typically does if a “Plan B” becomes necessary for whatever reason, and make sure you’re comfortable with it.
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3. Do you have insurance?
While coverage options vary, this question will get the conversation started. Knowing that your photographer is covered “just in case” is very reassuring.
4. What is your turn-around time for seeing the photos?
Every single photographer is likely going to give you a different answer on this one. The thing is, there’s no “right” answer. That said, you have to make sure that your expectations meet that of your photographer. No one wants to play the waiting game! Getting a clear timeline in advance will make the wait more bearable and keep your photographer accountable.
5. What do your packages include?
This is a BIG question that should be clarified right away. The items you’ll want to make sure are covered include actually camera time the day of the wedding and the actual products received… prints, digitals, albums, etc. BE CLEAR with what you want and how much it will cost. There should be no confusion here!
6. Do you have any referrals?
A quick glance at Yelp, Facebook, and Google might help answer this question, but if it’s not obvious – ask. You’ll want to know that someone is happy with their previous work. That what the photographer is promising, is what they actually deliver.
Wondering what my answers might be to these questions? Email me at hannah@hannahlanephotography.com for more information. I’d be happy to answer each and every one of them for you!
Don’t forget – while I’m based in Charleston and Annapolis, I am also a destination photographer! If you love my work, don’t hesitate to contact me based on location… I love to travel. <3
