How to Choose a Photographer for Your London Wedding

IMAGE;  Jessy Papasavva Photography

Apart from your memories some which may fade over time, one of the main ways of reliving your wedding are the images captured by your photographer.  Choosing the right photographer to document your day can be a daunting task however, it is so important to ensure that you have a photographer that can capture beautiful images that you can cherish in the years to come. So how do you go about choosing the right photographer?

Ask for recommendations

It is a good idea to speak to your recently married friends whose photos you love for details of their photographer.  You can also ask others who their wedding photographer was and if they are happy with their photographs. Nothing is better than recommendations and word of mouth. 

What style of photography are you drawn to?

There are many styles of photography and photographic style can vary hugely, you will need to have a clear idea of the artistic style you prefer.

Do you like light and airy, romantic or dark and moody shots?

Are you attracted to traditional photography?  This style consists of classic poses looking into the camera with lots of group shots of the couple and wedding party.

Photojournalistic style also known as reportage or documentary photography maybe your preferred choice.  This style is less about perfectly staged shots but documenting the day exactly as it unfolds.  This style can reflect genuine raw emotion and reactions through candid shots. There are no posed shots unless you ask for them.

Photography is subjective therefore your choice will come down to identifying photos that resonate with you.

Depending on the photographer’s experience you will find they share just their favourite images from weddings or will showcase entire portfolios of their weddings. It is important that you check out their entire portfolios. Take a good look at how they have captured each wedding.

This is advisable as it is easy for photographers to showcase their best images but they may have only captured a few from an entire day. 

You need to see whole days photography and the standard of their work from beginning to end. Some photographers may be great at daylight photography but lack skills when photographing night-time party shots. 

By checking out an entire wedding day you will see where their focus lies and what they are good at and maybe not so good at.  Think about what is important to you. 

If you are unsure about the style you like, select photographers whose work you love and your favourite photos from their portfolios.  Assess what your favourite shots have in common.  Is it the lighting and colours?  The emotion and movement? Which type of photos do you feel would better reflect your personality?

From your final shortlist of photographers, find out if they are available for your date and if you can afford them.  You always need to have backup in case your preferred photographer is unavailable for your date.

IMAGE:  Jessy Papasavva Photography

Be clear on your goals

It’s important to inform your chosen photographer which types of shots are most important to you.  Are you more concerned about the details, candid shots, family shots, or portraits of just the two of you? 

Do you gel with them?

Try to meet your photographer in person before your wedding as this will help you to build rapport.  You will be spending the day with the photographer therefore it is important that you both like them.  If you feel awkward and there is no connection or they make you feel uneasy then this isn't a right fit for you.

Do you need a second shooter?

If you are hosting a larger wedding, an experienced wedding photographer can bring a second shooter alongside them to capture different angles, aspects, and moments of your day.  The second shooter is also an experienced photographer that will shoot in the same style as the main photographer.

If your wedding is in different locations and has many details, then this is definitely something you should be investing in to make sure all the details of your day are captured. 

Click here for more information on planning your London wedding.