There are lots of ways to tell if a wedding photographer is good; with a now saturated market it can feel really overwhelming to find a wedding photographer. When I started 15 years ago there were only a few photographers in each area/county and even less female photographers; now with so many you can become lost in the hole of instagram and wonder ‘is this photographer any good?’ ‘Oh maybe that one?’
Here are the top tips on how to tell if a wedding photographer is good.
Use of Light | Photography means ‘writing with light’ so every photographer needs to understand how to use light; it sets the mood of the image as well as guiding the viewers eye. For a couple looking at a photographers work you need to look for the direction of light; harsh overhead light creating unflattering shadows as well as areas that are too light will lose white ares of detail; like on a wedding dress. Some photographers can rely on direct flash and signs of this are red eye and it can take away all ambient light and therefore atmosphere. All professional cameras can work well in low light so this is another sign if a photographer has the right equipment. Great photographer see the light and use it and control it to great feelings and atmosphere in their images.
Experience | If they have mastered point 1 then chance are they have lots of experience. everyone has to start somewhere and normally the persons price will reflect their level of experience as well as quality of equipment. Be sure to either read on their website how long they have been a full time photographer or ask them directly.
Read Good Reviews | Any good business should have reviews and wedding photography isn’t any different as a self employed person its critical to get great honest feedback. Look out for what couples say about how professional they are as well as approachable and their general approach to a wedding day. Google, or other platforms are a great place to find these.
Checking Full Galleries | I always offer potential couples a chance to view a full gallery of images, not just highlights; this means you can see a whole day from start to finish. It gives you a full look on all the moments captured, consistency as well as different lighting conditions throughout the day.
Follow your gut | Most of all listen to your gut; this will guide you on if you trust this person with your day and memories. Their energy will affect your day so you need to be a good match.
