The two reasons to hire a wedding photographer

When we meet with interested couples, searching for the right wedding photography team out there (for them) we like to sit down and spend time with them. It’s essential to us that we know we are all a good fit for one another. We love to hear their story, learn more about them, and hear what they’re looking for. It’s also important that we make sure they hear all about who we are, where we come from, why we do this work, and what it means to us. They need to understand our approach to wedding photography, our style, and our methods. We set clear expectations about our product and the experience we provide. We tell them all the smaller detail things too, like when their photos will be ready, how they are delivered, when we photograph engagement sessions, and walk them through a wedding day with us. Of course, we’ll spend plenty of time answering any questions they have for us, giving insight into things like our equipment, details about the contract, photo locations, preferred vendors, and so on. We’ll even start getting into wedding planning discussions! What colors are trending, tips, tricks and suggestions on how to make their day go smoothly. All of this information is key to deciding if we’re the right photography team for these couples!

But, while our photo turn around time and pricing is important, they shouldn’t make the decision. These smaller line items shouldn’t remain the focus when deciding to work with us or not. As we tell all of our couples, “there are two main reasons you should hire a wedding photographer… you love their work, and you love them.”

And for us, that’s what it boils down to. Do you love this photographer’s work? Do the photos speak to you? Can you see yourselves in the photos? Do they make you feel something? If you love the photos, and if there is nothing about them you’d want to change, then the first part of this decision is made. There should be no question in your mind that these images are what you want. When you love the photos, this means you trust the photographer who took them. Trust is very important.

Secondly, and equally as important is your connection with the photographers. Do you like them? Are they fun? Are they your kind of people? Do they care? Are they interested in knowing you? Are you people with a story to tell, or are you clients? Does your personality mesh with theirs? Could you stand to be around them all day on one of the biggest days of your life? Seriously, we’re usually around while Spanx are put on. That’s not anyone’s idea of a good time, and if you aren’t completely comfortable with your photographer that could be no fun at all. We’re with you when you see your spouse to be for the first time. We’re with you in quiet moments when your emotions hit, all at once, and it’s just us. We’ll see the tears, we’ll know what they’re for, we’ll hand you a tissue, and give you the time you need. We’ll know what you need, because we know you. Because you trust us to let us in. The wedding day is a better day when you are comfortable with the people around you. Your photographers are around you all day, so make sure you’re comfortable with them. Make sure they feel more like friends than vendors.

So there you have it. The big secret. The two best reasons to hire a wedding photographer, and the two ways you can ensure a beautiful wedding photography experience. Love the work, love each other. The rest will be amazing.