Dating | Weddings

Wedding Photography

One thing is for sure, your big day will pass in a complete blur and seem to last four minutes rather than twenty-four hours. So you will be relying heavily on your photographs and video to remind you that you didn't just dreamt the whole thing.

When you start looking for your photographer, you should cast your net wide and see as many portfolios as you have time for. Remember, there is only one chance to capture the magic of this day, so you need the right eye behind the lens.

There is a huge range of styles and options to consider, and making the right choice means that you would be able to reflect the very personal feel of your own day. With that in mind, you will by now be aware that there a lot of other people to consider - you may want more reportage-style shots whereas older family members want more posed, traditional shots as mementos of the day. It is a good idea to set aside some time before your reception to make sure that everyone has the combination they would like. (Make sure you order extra sets of these prints for sending out; putting them in a frame as special gifts for grandparents would be a nice touch.) Brides sometimes like to have a posed portrait before the wedding, so do ask if that is available too.

KEEPING IT STRICTLY BUSINESS

Be wary of allowing eager amateurs to help out. Specialised wedding photographers will understand wedding procedures, ceremonies and receptions, so they can anticipate your next move and be in the proper place at the right time to capture all the special moments. Make sure that your photographer is someone you feel comfortable with; if they remind you of a sergeant major and your dream wedding is more along the lines of Glastonbury, but with more mud, you will clash terribly. Make sure they are happy to cajole merry family members along for the group shots and can keep things moving along. Imagine how devastated you would be if your cousin's kind-hearted attempt to help went wrong and you had no decent pictures of the day.

Look at his/her or her work. See if the photographer captured the excitement and emotion of the bridal couple. Don't be frightened to take pages torn from magazines that capture a feel that you like, or photographs you have. It is also reasonable to ask them about their attire: they may think that trainers are acceptable or come in full morning suit, so check. Also check if they bring an assistant with them, and inquire after their attire too.

EXTRAS! EXTRAS!

Once you like someone's style, you need to clear up a few grey areas. This is where some less reputable photographers make their money. How much do extra prints cost? Is processing included in the cost? Who gets the negatives, you or them? Any photographers keep the rights to the negatives, so you can only get extra prints through them. If so, see if you can negotiate a fee to release them to you after a certain time. Ask the photographer how soon after the wedding you will get the prints. You should also ask if they could do retouching. A good photographer should have liability insurance, offer a money-back guarantee and offer referees for you to check up with.

In terms of style, it's often nice to get reportage shots of the bride in preparation before the ceremony, so consider whether or not you would be comfortable with a male photographer catching you or you fiancé in their smalls. Be clear about the amount of time you expect them to spend at the wedding, and if you want them at the reception. In case things run over, check what the cost per additional hour of shooting would be. A good photographer would be prepared for this eventuality, and not skip out before you are happy. Be wary of booking someone who has booked a second wedding later that day. It's just an added pressure for you and will prevent them from being entirely focused on your day.

FEELING GOOD

You will be expected to select the finish for the printed pictures, which are usually gloss or matt. There is a huge range of effects that can alter the way your photographs look and feel, such as adding a white border or making a small print on a large sheet of paper. The photographer should also be able to offer your colour prints in sepia or black and white, but remember that they will not have the same level of contrast as photographs taken in black and white film. Ask your photographer to shoot both types of film if possible. Don't forget to check if you need to order extras for family and friends.

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