Your wedding photos will be great souvenirs from your big day and you will look back at them for years to come. We suggest that you splurge on your wedding photographer, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t savings to be made. Here are our tips for getting the best value for money from your wedding photographer.

Find out what is included

When you communicate with your wedding photographer it is important to find out what is included in your wedding photography package. Some photographers will only stay for the ceremony and formal shots afterwards, whereas others will be there from getting ready right up until the final guest has left. If you want your speeches and your evening entertainment photographed, be sure to let them know this beforehand.

Ask about an engagement shoot

Your photographer might have an additional charge for an engagement photo shoot, but it is a great way to get use to working together. You don’t want to feel awkwardly posed on your wedding day, so by having an engagement shoot before hand you could get some nice photographs for your wedding invitations and get to know your photographer more.

Ask if they would like a meal at the wedding

Your photographer will be working hard on your wedding day, so it is important to ensure that they are properly fueled. Most wedding caterers will offer vendor meals – they cost around half the price of a meal for a wedding guest. However, your photographer may prefer to provide their own food in order to take a break from the wedding activities.

Meet your photographer

Corresponding over email to make the initial arrangements is fine, but it is important to try to meet your wedding photographer before the big day. This gives you the chance to ask more questions and most importantly, get comfortable around them.

Visit the venue together

If your photographer hasn’t worked at your venue before, make sure to arrange a visit to the venue together. This is where your photographer can get an idea of the venue and locations, and you can mention the location of any specific photographs you want. If you can’t visit together then many photographers are happy to arrange a visit themselves, as this helps them to prepare for your big day.  

Cheaper isn’t better…but more expensive isn’t better either

Your wedding photographer is one thing you should consider splurging on, but don’t fall for the trap of thinking that a cheaper photographer isn’t any good and an expensive photographer is the best. Judge each of them individually.

Make a list of photographs you want

If you’ve seen some awesome wedding shots on Pinterest then don’t just assume they come as a standard with every wedding. If there are particular shots you want to get then be sure to let your photographer know beforehand. Don’t rely on remembering them on the day itself – you will have so much else to think about and you might forget in all the excitement. By providing a list of these photographs to your photographer before the wedding, they can ensure that you get every shot you want.

Upgrade your package

You’re trying to get the best value for money, so you might be wondering why upgrading your package is going to save you money. Photographers often have a few sidelines or extras that you might be interested in, for example, a photobooth for the wedding reception or a photo book after the wedding. By pre-booking these before the wedding you could save money – and don’t be afraid to ask for a deal because you are booking a few extras.

Check out their portfolio

Most wedding photographers will have a portfolio on their website, showcasing their images. Use these to help you decide the style and editing of photographers that you like. If you don’t see anything that you like then move on.

Read reviews

The internet is bursting with reviews for wedding photographers – these will help you to make a decision about your wedding photographer. Not only do you want stunning wedding photographs, you want someone who is professional and will put you at ease throughout the day. You can easily find testimonials on their website, but also check out their social media pages, such as Facebook and Twitter for any special mentions.

 

Following these ten tips will help you to get the best value for money when it comes to choosing your wedding photographer. Do you agree that you should splurge on your wedding photographer, or do you have any other tips for saving money with your photography? Let us know in the comments below.