Photography is a very important aspect of your wedding planning. Choosing the right photographer is essential, as he or she will be capturing those special moments that you will treasure for a lifetime.

Start your research early

To make sure you get the right photographer you should start researching wedding photographers as soon as you can. Top photographers are often booked up to 12 months in advance, and most are busiest on Saturdays, particularly between the months of September to the end of April.

Before visiting different photographers around town, the best research you can probably do is to talk to any recently married friends and family members. Have a look at their wedding albums to see if you like the style of photography and design, and ask them about the personality and approach of their photographer. Another good way to do some research is to use the internet to search for photographers and get advice from other couples on discussion boards. Reading about photography in magazines, particularly real life wedding stories, can also be a good place to get some helpful information.

Choosing a photographer

Your wedding photography requirements are unique and will be different from that of other couples, so it is important to choose a photographer that will reflect your personal style.

From your research you will have a short-list of photographers. The next step is to get out and meet them, so you can look at samples of their work, compare various styles of photography and find out if you will feel comfortable working with them on the day. Going to visit potential photographers will also give you the opportunity to view their work and talk more about putting your personal wedding ideas into action on the big day.

Once you’ve decided on a photographer and made a booking, it is normal for a photographer to ask for a deposit of up to 50 per cent with the balance payable before the wedding. Many photographers will also ask you to sign a contract. Make sure you read it carefully and check what it says about cancellations, costs and payment terms.

Cost

We all know it’s true - you usually get what you pay for! When making your decision about a photographer, remember that price variations between photographers will reflect their experience, skill and qualification.

Generally, wedding photographers have packages starting at about $1500 – this usually includes a set number of prints and an album. From here, prices range upwards to about $5000. Be sure to check with your photographer about other costs you might incur, for example, the cost of reprints and enlargements.

Good Luck

A well-chosen and well-briefed photographer will mean you have one less thing to worry about on your wedding day. This will give you more time to spend enjoying it with family and friends, and of course, looking fabulous in your wedding photographs.