When it comes to planning your big day, finding a photographer tends to be one of the most daunting tasks. Yes, venues and caterers are competitive, and let us not forget the tedious decoration decisions. However, unlike these tasks, selecting a wedding photographer is rarely an easy ‘yes’ or ‘no’. Sure, there will be photographers that you do and do not like, but choosing between your favorite candidates requires looking beyond the abilities of a photographer, and further into who they truly are as a person.
1 | Where To Start
According to the well-known online wedding planning tool, The Knot, there are ten steps every couple should take to ensure they select the “perfect” photographer. To start, there are always the simpler aspects, like whether or not they can beat your budget, or if they offer a package that sparks your interest. Beyond these standard inquiries, a couple should also take the time to learn who the photographer is, how driven they are, and above all else, if they can achieve the desired results.
2 | A Thorough Consultation
During your search, you are likely to encounter photographers who do not offer a consultation process, and jump straight to setting up payments. At Florafost Photography, connecting with clients is a must. Starting with a consultation gives us a chance to learn your ins and outs as a couple. It also lends an opportunity to gather examples of inspiration, and to take notes of any special requests. For example, if you have a family rivalry going on, making sure a photographer does not cram them too close together in a photo can help keep tensions on the DL. And the consultation goes both ways. You, as a couple, will be welcomed and encouraged to ask questions or raise concerns. It is our goal to help you feel heard, understood, supported and valued from the very first day we meet.
3 | Confirm a Personal Connection
A consultation will also allow you to clearly state your goals and understand how the photographer will make sure they are reached. Not every photographer has the required confidence or drive to ask an obtrusive family member to move out of the way so they can capture your first kiss. It can be difficult for the couple to address a family member or friend over this issue — and you should not have to! Your photographer is someone who you should feel comfortable passing this job off to, and who you can trust to overcome any other obstacles. Actions such as this speak louder than that of a photographers camera skills. Truly trusting a photographer will give way to a feeling of ease, that will transfer into warm and authentic images. For this reason, our team strives to be a friend, and advocate, to all of the lovely couples that we have the honor of working with.
4 | Quality Is Key
Lastly, your photographer should have real testimonials. These samples are vital pieces of evidence, in regards to a clients happiness. It is never enough for a photographer to simply claim what they can, and will do for you. After all, anyone can ‘say’ anything! Viewing a wedding portfolio with a critical eye will give you insight into a photographers experience with certain venues and styles. Maybe one is prone to warm, natural-lighting and outdoor settings, whereas another has more success in a dimly lit, yet intimate and cozy church. The work you see on our website are real portraits, captured with real people, and real stories. If you do not see a style that suits your taste, never be afraid to ask! Our team has worked in a variety of settings, and will be happy to reassure you of our experience with a sample.
5 | The Honest Photographer
This brings us to a quality that we value above all else, honesty. A photographer must, in every way, be honest and open. We strive to create a welcoming and friendly environment for all of our clients, and that starts with being candid. Whether it is about packages, pricing, or a request, we promise to be open with you. These qualities encompass our passion for understanding and sharing your story, in the most accurate and vivid form.
We at Florafost Photography look forward to capturing the true essence of your relationship. These cherished memories are an integral part of your life, that you deserve to relive time and time again. Our team can not wait to hear from you, and look forward to the opportunity to learn about your unique relationship. Schedule a free consultation with us today, and let’s get started!
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