Ask any newly wed and they will tell you that choosing a professional photographer (Protog) is one of the major decisions to make then it comes to the wedding. Most couples spent at least 10 - 25% of their budget on a Protog. It's not really chump change for us mere mortals. As such, here are five tips to help you make that decision a little swifter and wiser.
1. FORGET VIDEO.
The trend of wedding videography storytelling will come to an end. In fact, it is already approaching its slump when it comes to its popularity. Paying an additional 2-3k for a 3-4 minute video highlight that will look and feel dated after 10 years just does not make sense and not to mention, what it considered high def today will be standard def in 10 years time. So forget videographers and use the money to get the best photographer you can afford. Photos are timeless, and you can always redevelop stills if the colors fade. Heck, even black and white has its charm. So stick with a Protog, forget video. If you really want video, get a friend who can help cover the important moments. But always get them a gift as a sign of appreciation.
2. COMMUNICATE THE LOOK & FEEL YOU WANT
With every Protog, they have a certain signature look that the Protog will try to maintain or deliver. High key, low-key, high or low contrast, retro or modern classics, are all in the realm of possibilities when it comes to what you want to achieve with your own collection of photos. It is vital to communicate the look you want with your Protog to ensure they know what to capture and how much to edit or not to edit. Do some googling online to show them the look you want. Some couples prefer to look like barbie dolls in their photos, some prefer a more natural look. Take your pick, but a good indication will be checking their portfolios. If you hate most of the pictures, then move on to the next Protog. Remember that there are no perfect Protogs, so communication is key.
3. PACKAGING & PRICING
While it is important to know in detail what you are paying for, It is never a good sign when you see a Protog showing you detailed quotation with charges for every single element is your package. I.e Bridal Gown - $1000, Bouquet - $200, Car Deco - $200. Most good professionals will give you a round figure of say $6000 with some wiggle room for negotiations and that is it. Trust your Protog that they will know what to charge for. Another important aspect is to stick with the same photographer to cover your wedding from Pre-wedding to Actual day. This way, it is likely they will provide value adding services without incurring or nitpicking extra charges with you. Overtime, you will also develop an easy working relationship with one another.
4. SECOND PROTOG
It is always good to have a second protog available to cover both the preparations of the bride and groom in the morning. This is not so important for pre-wedding but crucial for actual day. Having a second protog not only captures more, but also alleviates the stress from the single protog to allow a little bit more creative freedom instead of the usual generic pictures. In your discussions with your Protog, always ensure the option of having a second protog is there for the actual day. It may cost you bit more, but it will be worth it.
5. You WILL Argue with your partner, and its ok.
Choosing a photog is a stressful decision, and an expensive one. So it is perfectly normal if such discussion turn out to be heated one with your partner. Ultimately, and this is a personal advice, trust your instincts. Do all the homework you need and ask all the questions you want with your shortlist of protog, then pick the best one. It is always good to have a little knowledge in the profession, but this not normally the case. By no means burn a hole in your bank account to hire the best Protog in town! But its normal that there will be a slight insecurity when you sign off that fat cheque to confirm your Protog. At least the assurance is there that you know the photos will turn out beautiful.
Photo by: Victor Wong, Les Marieez Wedding Boutique