Selecting a Long Island wedding photographer is an essential part of the planning process, as integral as choosing a venue or finding the perfect dress. But unlike your flowers or catering, the photographs from your wedding live on long after the day. It can be difficult to find a wedding photographer who matches your aesthetic and taste—not to mention someone you trust to really capture the most important moments. Will they take the right shots?
1. Ask around.
Word of mouth is one of the most tried-and-true methods of finding a wedding photographer you’ll love. Going by the old theory, “birds of a feather flock together,” friends often share a common style and similar budgets. If you loved a friend’s wedding photos, don’t be too shy to ask them about their experience.
2. Instagram, Instagram, Instagram.
This may be one of the only instances in which social media stalking is highly encouraged. Allow yourself to get lost in an endless scroll. Start by scanning the feeds of your favorite wedding blogs or magazines. Or trail through a beautiful venue’s geotag. In the process of clicking from profile to profile of accounts that share your taste and vision, you might end up settling on the perfect person that you wouldn't have otherwise found. “Alternatively, use the‘ Explore' function on Instagram and search by famous wedding hashtags, including #weddinginspiration, #weddingphotography, and #weddingdetails.
3. Settle on a theme.
“Try and form a clear idea of whether you are more drawn to the organic look achieved with film or the crisp, classic style that digital photography offers. It can be invaluable to take the time to search a wedding photographer's portfolio to find the best fit. Are you looking for more posed and conventional portraits, candid documentary style or more? When you are looking for anything in particular, concentrate on a wedding photographer who is specialized in it.
Photo details:
6. Advertisement. Start with one vendor, and then the rest.
Did you find your dream Florist? Tell them which wedding photographers are their favorite.The wedding industry is a close-knit community–don't be afraid to ask industry vendors for recommendations. Another choice is to look at their website and see how they were a part of shot weddings. This will not only give you an idea of whether their designs will suit but also of how they will fit into your budget.
7. Be sure they match your personalities.
So you got a photographer that you like. What happens next? Then on top of that, how can you make sure they suit your style and personality? When creating your first email, be sure to simply extend the site, date and hours of coverage required. Share who you are, and your dream for the day. If the wedding photographer feels a bond with you, they will be able to respond in a more personal tone, creating an opportunity for flying sparks. Only don't leave it to text. If you can not meet in person, set up a call by phone or Skype. You'll spend a lot of time with that person on one of the most romantic days of your life. When you take the time from the start to develop trust, you'll definitely have the experience you want on your wedding day.
8. Agree on the specifics.
Before you sign a contract there are a few important aspects to bear in mind. Most significant, when is the wedding photographer providing the final images? Keep the timeline clear so you know what to expect. Will you like your images by the holidays if you get married in the autumn? Are you going to make large-format prints or a wedding album? All these aspects should be discussed and decided beforehand, so that you know what to expect after the wedding.
