When consulting with a prospective photographer, you should gain a sense of confidence that they will provide exactly what you are expecting.  A serious mistake is to assume that because they offer wedding photography, you will be satisfied with whatever they do.

You will need to meet with your prospective photographer to gain an understanding of their services. Reviewing samples of their best work and portfolios of recent weddings will give you an idea of the photographer’s style and product quality. Some have website galleries, so you can look before you meet.

The first steps

• Define which style best suits you.
• Discuss the type of investment you are willing to make.
  
  

Photojournalism

• Documents the day without posed shots.
• Low-profile photographer.
• Focus on activities rather than poses.
• No shot list.
• Capture every moment.
• Some people missed.
• Unique photos tell a story.

True photojournalism is completely unobtrusive, with no intervention of the photographer. Although some shots may get missed, everyone is free of photographer direction.  Your album will be a stylish documentary of the day’s events. This is rising in popularity and  may be the right choice for you.

Traditional style

• Carefully posed portraits.
• Shots of individuals and groups.
• Noticeable photographer presence.
• Need to budget plenty of time.
• Use of a prescribed shot list.
• Get every shot you choose.
• Miss many interactive moments.
• Photos often lack spontaneity.
• High quality portraits.

Your parent’s wedding pictures were likely traditional style. If you want professionally posed, quality portraits of the people in your wedding, this may be a good style for you. Every shot you want will be staged. Your album will be a compilation of your shot list in a clean, well-organized presentation.

 Illustrative photography

• Carefully selected environment with         reduced degree of photographer guidance.
• No rigid posing direction or control.
• Spontaneous, natural shots.
• Utilizes photographer’s judgment.

Photojournalism is often misunderstood, and it is separated so distantly from traditional portraiture, most professionals can not truly offer both styles. Illustrative photography is a loose adaptation of both photo journalist and traditional styles.

Sub-styles and approaches

Enhanced reality: Images are artistically  enhanced to intensify or elicit specific feelings and emphasize certain aspects.

Romantic: Soft-focused close-ups of the bride or the couple.

Candid: Not to be confused with photojournalism, candid shots are simply photos taken without anyone posing.

Black and white: Typically used with many photographic styles, prints are often now based from color originals.

Defining digital:

In recent years, digital has become the standard for exciting wedding photography.  Digital simply means that images are captured on digital media as opposed to film.  Whether digital or film, the same degree of technical skill in proper exposure and lighting are required. Digital photography has taken computer enhancement possibilities to new levels. Not only can your images be perfectly corrected, but things like color toning, special filters, collages and additional effects can be skillfully applied to enhance the mood and feel of a composition.

Questions to consider

• Does the style appeal to you? 
• Are you looking for wedding coverage or a more artistic portrayal?
• Is the feeling you want represented?
• How much time can you have with the photographer?
• What will the photography include? 
• Will you want to remember details as you begin preparing for the day? 
• Is your photographer available to capture these other moments?
• What will the costs be for this?  
• Do you feel comfortable with the photographer and any of their assistants?
• Is there a minimum number of proofs? 
• Are specific prints included?
• Are there any additional costs? 
• Is your album part of the package?
• What kind of investment are you willing to make for the whole package?
• Make sure the price you are quoted is what you will pay to get everything you want.

You can get basic pictures for a reasonable price, if that will satisfy your needs. However, if you really desire a means to preserve every special moment of your big day, you may need to make a greater investment. With careful planning and the right professional, you will have images to last a lifetime.