Selecting a Wedding Photographer | Sacramento Wedding Photographer

Tips for selecting a wedding photographer.  So, he finally popped the question, and of course, you said, “YES!’  Now what?  After all, you’ve been dreaming about this day since you were a little girl.  There are so many places to start when it comes to planning your wedding.  The venue, caterer, DJ, photographer, guest lists…… The list goes on.

First of all, I recommend creating a budget!  Yes, we all have our “dream” wedding planned out in our minds, but our checkbooks may not be capable of rising to those expectations.  Create a budget and stick to it! Make a list and decide what your priorities are.  This will help you decide where you’re willing to put more of your budget towards, as well as where you may be able to cut some costs and not be heartbroken over that decision.

There are many vendors that you need to get booked right away.  Your photographer is one of those!  Thanksgiving through New Years’ is the busiest time of year where couples get engaged.  In turn, this leads straight into the busiest time of year for vendors to get booked.  On average, my weddings are booked 8-12 months in advance.  So, once you have your heart set on a photographer don’t hesitate to reach out to them and find out if your date is available.  Some couples are flexible on their date and will choose a wedding date based on their photographer and venue’s availability.

Once you have had a chance to let everything sink in and celebrate your engagement with your love, it’s time to start planning.

I’m sure you’ve browsed the internet for hours on end searching for THE PHOTOGRAPHER.  You’ve pinned your dream photo ideas to your Pinterest Boards and you’re on the hunt to find the one!  When it comes to selecting your photographer there are several things to take into consideration.  One of the first things you need to consider is, Can you afford them?  If you’ve had your eye on a specific photographer, or you came across one that you loved, are they within your budget?  If not, are there things you’re willing to cut out or limit the cost of in order to make them fit into your budget?  There are photographers out there to cover all ranges of the spectrum when it comes to a budget.  Decide what you’re wanting from your photographer.  Do you have certain things you’re hoping for in your wedding package?

It’s also important to have a consultation with your photographer prior to booking them.  Put together a list of questions of things to ask them.  Also, be sure to bring along anyone who will be involved in the decision process.  Make sure your photographer’s personality meshes with yours.  This person is going to be with you 99% of your wedding day.  They are going to become someone very close and dear to you on one of the biggest days of your life.  Make sure you can work with them!

Visit their websites, Facebook, and Instagram pages.  Get to know them and determine if you think they’ll be a good fit for you.

Have any tips and tricks you’ve discovered along the way to planning your dream wedding?  Be sure to comment below to share them with fellow brides.