Naturally, you’ll never forget the day you said, “I do!” to your soulmate. You’ll cherish those memories in your heart forever, but having a visual keepsake is important too. You’ll want to share those joyful moments with everyone, as well as pass it down to future generations as part of your enduring love story. And for that, you’ll need a photographer. Sure, anyone can buy a camera, point, and shoot, but for your wedding day you want the best. With so many out there, how do you find one? Read on for tips on how to select the wedding photographer who is right for you.
Tips for Selecting The Best Hudson Valley Wedding Photographer
Set Your Wedding Budget
First and foremost, you and your spouse to be should decide on how much money you both want to put into this celebration. Setting a budget will help ensure you don’t overspend. There’s no need to start off your life together in debt.
After you pin down your ideal date, it’s time to book the ideal setting. The venue is typically the first and largest expense. With that out of the way, you’ll know how much you have left to spend on vendors. Create a list of priorities and divvy up the cost accordingly. Check out Wedding Wire’s Wedding Cost Guide to find the average costs for vendors in your area.
Wedding photographers in the NY tristate area usually cost between $2000 – $6000, although some high end artists may charge even more. Many variables make up these prices. Some photographers charge based on experience, others charge based on equipment. Also, your needs will factor into it. Do you need one photographer, or multiple ones? Do you want a videographer as well?
Make sure to create a list of things you absolutely need, as well as a list of things you’d like if possible. This will help you to better communicate with the wedding photographer you ultimately select.
Research Photo Style
Searching Google and using wedding sites like The Knot’s Marketplace will be helpful when searching for your photography team. You will be able to compare photography styles and you can narrow search results by price too. Make sure to read the reviews to get a feel of what your experience might be like.
Lastly, look up popular wedding photography hashtags and peruse Instagram and Facebook. It’s a great way to not only find photographers in your area, but to also get inspiration for the kinds of shots you want. Make sure to save the ones you love to create a vision board either on your personal computer, your phone, or Pinterest. These can later be shared with your selected wedding photographer. Together you can work on a shotlist to ensure you get the photos you want.
Meet Face to Face
After you find a photographer you may be interested in, contact them to set up a meeting. A benefit to meeting in person is to get a feel for their personality. Is this someone you’ll feel comfortable having around as you’re getting ready? If you’re uncomfortable, it will show in your photos. You want to find someone who can put you at ease.
When meeting with potential photographers ask to see an album of a full wedding day. You will want to see quality images and creativity from start to finish. Ask how many photos are taken during the day and if there are any additional costs. Album sizes and styles vary so double check the album style you love is included in the package.
Some photographers offer added value when booking. Maybe a package price with a percentage off if you do both the photo and video services together? Or possibly an engagement session can be added in at a discounted rate? An engagement session is a great way to get a feel for their shooting style. Don’t be afraid to ask about what discounts or additions they can do. A good photographer will be happy to work with you to deliver a package you’ll love.
Ready to Select Your Wedding Photographer?
If the budget works, the pictures are your style, the package looks good and you’re comfortable with the photography team then it’s time to sign up. Wedding vendors will need a deposit to hold the date for you, so get the contract and deposit ready to go. Make sure to give them your wedding timeline closer to your wedding date. Then all you have to do is smile, knowing you’ve got the best working for you!
If you’re loving the photos on this page and in our featured wedding gallery, then be sure to send us a message. We’d love to be the team you count on on your big day!
How To Select Your Hudson Valley Wedding Photographer
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