Last Updated on February 16, 2024 by Ali Hamza
Choosing a photographer or videographer for our wedding is a big decision. Your photos and videos are some of the most treasured keepsakes from the big day. Here are some tips on choosing the perfect Seattle wedding videography and photography services for your big day:
1. Review Different Photographers
Finding the best photographer involves reviewing several offers to determine the perfect solution for your needs. You can start with an online search to check out local wedding photographers and videographers. Compare as many photographers as possible to determine the subtle differences from one style to the next.
Going through many offers allows you to find the best photographer from the mix. You can narrow the search to top photographers and schedule interviews with each. During the interviews, ask for a complete wedding album given to a recent client. You should ask any questions you have to clear any doubts and concerns. Vetting different photographers is the best way to find your perfect match.
2. Choose a Photographer You Like and Trust
The technical aspects of photography can provide high-quality outcomes. You should hire photographers you get along well with. Working with the best wedding photographer in the world won’t mean anything if you don’t feel comfortable and relaxed around them. You need someone you trust and feel at ease around because it can reflect in the photos.
The goal is to feel natural on your big day. Besides, your photographer or videographer will follow you the whole day, so it makes sense to choose someone you trust. During the initial meeting, share your plans and gauge the photographer’s personality and skills. Move to the next if you don’t click or if you feel unsatisfied after the meeting. You should only work with a photographer you like and trust.
3. Figure Out Your Preferred Photography Style
Paying attention to the photographer’s style can help you find one that matches your taste. Photography styles are unique, and people have different preferences. Some prefer a reportage style, while others often resort to more artistic presentations. Other styles include traditional/vintage, documentary, elegant and expressive, dreamy/nostalgic, and more.
The goal should be to find a photographer whose preferred style matches your personality and preferences. Most photographers can work with any style, but they have the special one. You can ask for their past work to determine the style. If you don’t have a particular style in mind, do your homework to get a sense of the different options. Consider bright, saturated colors, vintage, washed-out tones, film-like, clean color edits, and more.
4. Know the Wedding Plan, Setting, and Time
Understanding the wedding plan, venue, setting, and time is beneficial when hiring Seattle wedding videography. Extra lights may be necessary if you plan to have an evening courtyard wedding that stretches into the night. You can add hanging chandeliers and ambient lighting, but the photographer should equally have exceptional camera flash skills. Leveraging natural and artificial light requires experienced photographers.
You should share the plan with the photographer and inform them about the setting, location, and time. If they’ve worked at the venue before, ask to see pictures and videos. The photographer should be able to work within the parameters of the location. Talk to them about the number of guests, location challenges, and indoor and outdoor shoots. You can request a list of past jobs to compare the types of venues with your booked location.
5. Consider Your Budget and Expectations
Fee discussions are inevitable when hiring a wedding photographer. You’ll meet photographers who provide inclusive fees for albums, prints, and high-resolution digital images. Others prefer a flat fee for a specific volume of pictures or an hourly rate. You can request a price list to see the different packages available and how much they cost. Make sure you understand what’s covered in each package, including a second in case of videography. Some photographers have negotiable prices.
Elaborate meal courses, decorations, and clothing may drain your budget, but they may not be as long-lasting as your wedding photographs and videos. You should set a decent budget for the photography because it’s the longest-lasting part of your big day. If you find a great photographer but discover they are outside your budget, discuss pricing options. You may be able to make payments over time or get a discounted rate for referrals. Speak to your photographer about any concerns you have.
Trustworthy Seattle Wedding Videography Services
Finding trustworthy Seattle wedding videography and photography services should be a fast process, thanks to the many online offers. When comparing photographers, stick to offers from reputable companies. The best wedding photographers and videographers have a growing local reputation and proof of their work. Make sure you go through complete wedding albums to get an idea of their services and discuss styles and pricing options.
Read More: The Different Styles of Wedding Photography
How do you know if a wedding photographer is good?
Choosing a wedding photographer can be a daunting task, as capturing those once-in-a-lifetime moments requires skill and expertise. But how do you know if a wedding photographer is good? Here are a few things to look for:
First, take a look at their portfolio. A good wedding photographer should have a varied and extensive portfolio, showcasing their ability to capture different lighting conditions, settings, and emotions. Look for images that make you feel something, whether it’s happiness, love, or joy.
Next, read reviews and ask for referrals. Look for feedback from previous clients to understand the photographer’s professionalism, communication skills, and ability to work with others. A good photographer should be able to put you at ease and work seamlessly with the other vendors on your wedding day.
Another important factor is their approach to the wedding day. A good photographer will take the time to understand your vision for the day, and work with you to ensure that your photos reflect your unique style and personality. They should be able to anticipate and capture important moments while being discreet and respectful of your guests.
Lastly, consider their technical expertise. A good wedding photographer should have a thorough understanding of lighting, composition, and editing and be able to produce high-quality images that will stand the test of time. They should also have backup equipment and a plan in case of unexpected issues on the day.
