Weddings

Choosing the Best Photographer for Your Summer Wedding

• May 8, 2015
• by Tracey Lyles

By guest blogger, fashion & lifestyle expert Necole Peralta

We’ve all heard the saying “you only have one chance to make a first impression.” Well choosing the right photographer to capture the perfections–big and small–of your wedding day sorta falls within the same category. You only have one shot at great photography, therefore choosing the right artist is hands down the most important choice you’ll make throughout the entire wedding planning process. (An artist knows how to capture those ‘in the moment moments’ that you don’t even realize were moments until you’re looking at your beautiful photos.)

Here are fantastic tips from Sarah Townsend Johnson of Sarah Jo Photography on the Do’s and Don’ts to great photographs!

5 Do’s To Great Photographs

1. Choosing the right photographer: Make sure he/she is professional. What does this mean? A great photographer will present themselves in a professional manner, i.e. proper dress attire, detailed contract highlighting exact details of your event, timely arrival to scheduled appointments (site walk through, meeting family and wedding party etc.), and easily accessible for follow-up questions and concerns throughout the entire process.

2. Schedule of events: It’s very important to fit time in your wedding schedule for pictures after the ceremony. “In my experience so many people forget to do this and are anxious and rushed during the photo session because they fear they’re keeping their guests waiting too long,” says Sarah.

3. Lighting & Environment: Be mindful of the time of day for your ceremony especially if you choose an outdoor wedding. Will you be facing the sun? Will the sun be behind you? The best times for natural sunlight are either a couple hours after sunrise or a couple of hours before sunset. If this is not possible, search out shaded areas, such as gazebos or tall landscape. For indoor ceremonies, windows are always ideal and the more the better. The idea that pretty settings make for pretty pictures should be the concept. Brides, remember if you want photos of you and your girls getting ready, try to select a location with nice rooms. “I’ve had brides request photos of them getting dressed, but the dressing room was less than ideal with clutter everywhere,” says Sarah.

4. Communication: Your photographer should be available to attend at least one wedding rehearsal to get an idea of who’s in the wedding party, family members (there’s nothing worse than a photographer missing great family moments because they simply don’t know who to photograph), schedule, location and lighting. Additionally, this is the photographer’s opportunity to speak with bride/groom and officiant to gather details on where he/she is allowed to stand to get the best photos during the ceremony.

5. Budget: Great wedding photography can be pricey. Make a reasonable budget and find a photographer that fits this and the style you are looking for. Photography is more than snapping pictures. Great photographers have invested time into learning and perfecting their craft, and most importantly have the knowledge and know-how to put it all together on your day.

5 Don’ts To Great Photographs

1. Experience is key. Because weddings can be hectic, it’s important to choose someone with experience. Don’t choose a newbie just to save money.

2. You get what you pay for. Don’t choose a photographer before seeing their work. Often times their talent correlates to their pricing.

3. Many venues have regular photographers that they recommend. Don’t feel pressured into choosing from their list. Keep your options open.

4. Be careful when choosing to use friends or family to capture your wedding day. This could also go along with, you get what you pay for. If anything goes wrong, not only do you not have quality photos, there could be tension in your relationship.

5. Don’t choose a photographer solely from his/her portfolio. Meet your photographer. Get a feel of their personality to make sure it’s a good fit. Maybe you love their work but their personality just doesn’t fit.

A great photographer will have the unique ability to fit right in, capture those perfect moments and slip right out.

Giving Credit Where Credit is Due

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Jo Photography | (252) 207-3646

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Tracey Lyles

A hopeful romantic and enthusiastic UCLA grad, Tracey serves as Director of Marketing and Public Relations for Robbins Brothers. For leisure she enjoys shopping, dancing, hosting parties for family & friends and staying abreast of the latest celebrity news.

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