Choosing your dream wedding photographer

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May 25, 2011 – Though the Kenyan “winter” is coming up and wedding high-season is months away, brides-to-be will still be busy planning their upcoming big day.

Photography is the cornerstone of your wedding memories.  Too often do people shop for wedding photographers based on price, which ultimately does not make much sense since there are no second chances (unless you’re already planning for a second wedding).

Choosing a wedding photographer is far from shopping for an outfit at a store.  Your purchase will be ultimately made over a matter of faith since you won’t be able to see the pictures until afterwards.

Regardless of the style of wedding photography that you’re looking for, wedding photojournalism to traditional candid to illustrative professional photography styles, one important thing to keep in mind is that you need to do your research and start searching for a photographer immediately.

Hiring a wedding photographer should be one of the first things on your wedding-to-do list.  Some of the best professional photographers book their schedules at least a year in advance.  If you want outstanding photos and your wedding memories to be captured by your dream photographer, make sure you start searching for a one immediately once you have decided on a date.

Below are some tips to help you find that elusive dream photographer that will ensure your wedding memories will be treasured forever.

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CHOOSING THE RIGHT WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

Search immediately.  Finding the photographer of your dreams will require some planning.  If you want the best, then you need to ensure that you’ve booked them before their schedules fill up.

Search everywhere. Start with recommendations from friends and family who have held weddings in the past.  Look at their wedding album and see if you like their photographer’s style.  Ask wedding planners, your venue manager, caterer, bakers, florists and even your limousine drivers for recommendations.

Photography style.  Know which photography style you prefer and be specific when you’re searching for your photographer.  Narrow down your selection of photographers to about three before you decide to make appointments with them for interviews.

View photo samples.  When sampling the photographer’s work, make sure you look at their ability to capture emotion of the day.  You want to have a passionate photographer who will capture every moment of your big day.  Also examine the basics of picture quality like color, clarity, exposure, and composition.

Professionalism.  The best way to ensure you will have a wedding album that everyone wants is to hire a seasoned professional with a solid background.  You can plan as much as possible, but unexpected things will always come up.  A photographer that expects the unexpected is definitely one of the most important qualities of a wedding photographer.

Personality.  Is the photographer friendly and easy to get along with?  You want someone who will be able to interact with you and your guests with ease so that the photos won’t seem posed.

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