Don't make the mistake of waiting too long to book your photographer
Finding a great wedding photographer isn't easy. But finding one who is available for your dream wedding date can be even harder. The last thing you want is to have to settle on a photographer you didn't really want because the photographer you did want was already booked. You're sadly mistaken if you imagine your ideal photographer will definitely be available for your wedding date.
There are only so many weekends in a year. If you factor out most of the winter months, some of the hottest summer months, and any weekends that collide with major holidays the number is even smaller. Then, if you are looking at special wedding dates in the year, like 10-10-20, for example, be sure that other couples are looking at those also. On top of all that, some photographers limit how many weddings they will book in the year.
Many wedding photographers will reserve wedding dates between 12 and 18 months in advance. Even if you only have a 4-8 month engagement, book your photographer as soon as possible. You'll want all the time you can get with them to plan for the wedding day. You'll also want to try to get an engagement photo session booked with them (which might even be included in your wedding package) and you probably don't want to be doing that the week before the wedding. Plus, you will have a lot of other wedding details keeping you busy as the big day gets closer.
Don't make the mistake of not asking for enough image samples
Another big mistake is not asking your wedding photographer for enough image samples of their work. Even as professional photographers, we have to admit that anyone can take a great photo every now and then. And every wedding photographer is going to fill their portfolio with the best examples of their work. What you don't know is if they can be consistent with their service. If you are seriously considering hiring them, don't be afraid to ask for more image samples than what you can see in their portfolio. If they have a blog where they post images from a full wedding day, that might be enough. Otherwise, ask them if they're willing to share a past client gallery so you can see what they delivered for a real client.
Make sure you look for photo samples that mimic what you're planning for your wedding. Are you planning to have bridal getting ready photos taken? Make sure you see some samples. Are you planning to have a sparkler exit after dark? Don't ask the photographer if they think they can do that. Ask them to see examples. Some wedding photographers only shoot with natural light and might not be able to photograph a nighttime exit.
Don't make the mistake of focusing on price too early
If you make the mistake of focusing on price too early, you could end up paying more or you could miss out on getting the best wedding photographer for your wedding. Wedding photographers price their services on many different factors. It can be difficult to know exactly what you're paying for until you've had a chance to talk to them about your wedding plans. Committing to a photographer early based on a low starting price could be dangerous. The final price might end up being a lot higher than the starting price. Make sure you understand what their cost factors are. There are some trends you can follow if this is the first time you're shopping around for a wedding photographer.
You should also be careful about ruling out a photographer too quickly because you think the price is too high. Of course, we don't advocate blowing your budget needlessly. You should be smart with your money. But some photographers offer unique services that might be incredibly important to you. If you rule them out too quickly based on the price, you might miss your chance to book them later on if you decide they're the best fit for you after all. If they are worth their higher prices, there's a good chance they'll fill up their calendar quickly.
Choosing a wedding photographer is a big decision and there are a number of mistakes you don't want to make. Pay attention to the 3 things mentioned here and you'll be off to a better start.
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