Style: First decide what we are looking for. Cheesy? Trendy? Unique? You would think we could skip passed the cheesy discussion but perhaps not. Maybe nobody is looking for it; maybe people just settle – Almost exclusively, the regret I hear from married folks about their wedding is skimping on photography. They say “it was just ordinary. They really didn’t capture “us”. It was just stale posed pictures.” Tragedy.

What about trendy? – Red roses in an otherwise black and white photo. Circa 2005. I may or may not have done that. Once.  Another popular style, courtesy of 2007, was the camera tilt. I know, I did it. But unique photography is not based on a trend. It’s based on documenting the reality of people, and the best of them. It’s about producing stunning images that have a soul. Images that make you stop; draw you in.  It’s not necessarily about being a unique photographer, it’s more about looking for the once in a lifetime moments that are true to the people in them. But hey, if you are still in love with your trendy hairstyle of 1999, then by all means…I just don’t think you want to feel about your wedding photos like you do your flare jeans.

Experience: A top tier photographer should give you an amazing experience. You and I have both heard real-life horror stories about peoples regret over their wedding photographer. Devastatingly few good images. Ordinary images. I hear of photographers “who don’t do this” or “don’t do that” or can’t wait to call it a night. Look for a photographer who you trust. One who will treat your once-in-a-lifetime event with the effort it deserves. (No ego!) Look for someone you like. Someone that will fit in with your family and friends. A photographer can’t tell you to look natural. You need to feel at ease around them. Thats how you look your best. If they get you, they will know what moments to anticipate.

Budget: Planning and preparing for your big day can be overwhelming and expensive. The food, favors and decorations are great, but they only last as long as the event itself. Your photography will always be with you. And while the day of goes by like a blur, I have experienced that great photography gives you the chance to relive it forever. Whether your wedding is simple or extravagant – be willing to adjust your budget. Make your priorities your priorities. 

Products:

I understand the desire for everyone wanting a disc of images (aka “shoot & burn”), but it is essential to consider what you are wanting out of your final product in the long run. I am a big believer in the overall quality and presentation of your photographs. Wedding photography is not only a beautiful image on canvas, even more it is a complete collection of your photographs; telling the whole story of your special day. One of the things I like most about this whole process is creating a custom album just for you. Preserving all of the feelings, details and moments that transpire. My approach is to offer professional recommendations and examples; doing this can make the whole process easier and less overwhelming. In our gallery, we offer many great options as perfect complements to our work. We help you find exactly what you want. 

Well, if you read to this point, I appreciate being able to share my thoughts with you. Over the last eight years I have been lucky to have worked with so many great people and capture some of the most beautiful and intimate moments of their lives. So, there you have it. You are armed with some insight and direction to make a well-informed and confident decision. Choosing a photographer should be exciting and fun – enjoy yourself.