By Tricia McCormack
1 Do you like their style and editing?
If you are drawn to a certain photographer, ask yourself what it is you like about the images. Are the photos bright, dimensional, airy, true to life? Or are they dark, moody, and evoking more of an artsy vibe? Consistent editing is key. When researching wedding photographers, go beyond their portfolio (the images they showcase on their website) and seek out past weddings on blogs, websites, and social media. That style of theirs that originally appealed to you? You should see it in more than one wedding or event. This will reveal consistency (or lack thereof) from wedding to wedding and year to year. Getting a peek at a real gallery from a past couple is a great way to see the day from start to finish.
2 Are you and your photographer a good fit?
This professional is likely to spend eight or more hours with you! One way to find out if you are compatible is to jump on a call or Zoom. Even better, schedule an engagement session (a practice run for photos is a good idea). Things to check off your “are we a match?” list include responsiveness, organization, personality, and how they approach the wedding day. Reading customer reviews (or hiring someone from a friend’s recommendation) is also incredibly valuable. Reviews give an insight into what the experience will be like. Is your photographer someone who will show up on your wedding day and make it feel special? Do people feel calm around them? Can you trust that they are capturing all of the big and small moments? Getting a good vibe from a photographer is one thing, but reading testimonials from real life couples will answer so many of these questions.
“The same moment can be captured in two unique ways. Time is precious during an event.”
3 Do you want a second photographer?
This is such a common question. For large weddings—over 100 people—many pros will suggest having two photographers. This means you’ll get double the coverage and double the variety. The same moment can be captured in two unique ways. Time is precious during an event. Having another photographer can significantly increase the efficiency of the timeline and ensures every moment is documented (even those in-between moments). Your photographer has the ability to be in two places at once!
McCormack photographed Lauren and Jason’s Berkshire wedding at August Moon. Planner: Magdalena Events; flowers, Stems Flower Design.
SMILES GUARANTEED
Photo booths allow people to be themselves—to be silly, to be sentimental, and to be wholly present in the moment. They’re a fun addition to weddings, holiday parties, corporate events, birthdays, anniversaries, or showers. And photo booths are at once nostalgic and super high-tech—they can make videos and use all kinds of effects, but when in doubt, keep it simple. Here’s my favorite way to photo booth:
- Make it black and white: simple, timeless, and everyone always looks great
- Skip the props: keep the focus entirely on the people
- Don’t forget to print: Send everyone home with the classic photo-booth strip
