Sarah from Beauvale Events (who are an East Midlands Events Planner) talks about choosing a photographer for your wedding day and the sort of things you should consider when making this decision.

I am not a photographer. I don’t profess to have the necessary skills to enable me to take anything other than an average picture. So, why have I decided to write about photography? Because it is one of the ‘trades’ that as an event planner you have a lot of dealings with. As such it is something that I have learnt a fair bit about, even if this knowledge has not helped my skills improve! So should you commit some of your valuable budget towards a professional or employ the services of friends and family?

It is a growing trend to ask friends and family to take photographs of your day and give them as a gift to you and your partner afterwards; often these are the only ‘official’ photographs taken. I will say that unfortunately it is rare for you to get more than half a dozen sets of photos sent to you post-event; most people simply forget in the chaos of everyday life, leaving you without any pictures. The last thing you want to do is to ring people and demand access to their photos! Some people still like to have disposable cameras on tables for guests to use; be careful though, these are not always the images you imagined would be taken, trust me I’ve seen everything on photos at clients post-event review meetings, and much of it not something to treasure in an album! Some people like to try and make sure that there are a selection of ‘proper’ photos taken by asking one close friend or family member to act as photographer for the day. These are all acceptable ways to record your day for eternity and if you are aiming for a friendly low-key event then this might be the best way forward for you.

I would urge caution though to the would-be self-photographer; make sure you can take a good picture or the bride/groom will find fault with your work and it will cause tension which can last a while; sometimes forever. I know of brides who have lost their cool on their wedding day because photographer-friends are not ‘controlling’ the guests and taking the pictures that they want. I have also seen amateur photographers have equipment failure or not look confident in the way the camera works; end result ruined pictures. On one occasion I even saw a mini-tantrum from a would-be David Bailey who in a fit of screaming exited said proceedings taking his camera with him! This is not meant to scare you, this way forward can work, just please be aware of the pitfalls if this is the decision you make.

I always recommend my clients that they seriously consider using the services of professional photographers. They have top class equipment and know how to use it to best effect. This adds confidence to your day, knowing that someone is taking care of documenting everything for posterity and that the images will be clear and frame you in your best light. From my perspective it helps make my life easier too; a great photographer will ensure that all aspects of image collection occurs allowing me time to focus on other coordination issues such as timing, venue problems and staffing.

Don’t fall into the trap that paying more will mean a higher quality service; I am not in any way saying that the cheapest is the best either. Make sure that you do not rush the decision of choosing a photographer. Meet with them and get to know them a little, after all they will be spending critical moments with you throughout your big day so you must have a rapport and feel comfortable with each other; you are putting trust in them to make you look as stunning in print as you are in person. Ask to see examples of their work and any testimonials from previous clients. Ask searching questions such as what is the most memorable event you have covered and why? Ask them about their ideas for capturing your day. Really what I am saying is try and get into the head of the person in front of you. True professionals won’t be fazed by this and will be able to answer your questions.

The best photographers out there will hold several meetings with you prior to your day to ensure that they fully understand what you hope to achieve from your photographs. They will have a clear running order of what will happen, and when, to make sure that all images are captured, locking the memories of the day in print. Explain the images that you hope to achieve and hand over a printed list of these; don’t fall into the trap of assuming that the term ‘standard photos’ will cover everything in your head; if you want a photograph with your aunts and uncles then tell the photographer this! Try and get an idea about how long is needed to take the pictures you want, to ensure the smooth running of the day. Look at the packages that are on offer and ensure that you will get a copy of all images on a DVD to keep; as well as a lovely keepsake it means you have all the photos including those that you decide won’t feature in your official album. Be careful not to be tag-teamed by couples from some companies. It is a common practice to make sure that two people attend client meetings which helps to avoid answering awkward questions or to put the hard sell on you, encouraging bookings and deposits before you’ve had time to think.

Once you are happy that you have all of the information you need place your booking. Make arrangements with your photographer about when follow up meetings will be, and when payments will need to be made by (and for how much obviously!) Make sure you remember to provide on the day contact details for the photographer; you won’t necessarily be carrying your mobile with you and without an event coordinator someone else will need to take responsibility for contact. Then all that is left is to do is to thoroughly enjoy your day. All I’m saying is don’t leave anything to chance on your special day. I have worked with some of the best in the business and they know how to manage people to get the most out of any situation, even if it’s raining!

If all of this is still daunting or you feel unable to negotiate the world of photography then you could consider using a specialist event coordinator who can help guide and support you through the decision making process. Such teams have a wealth of experience and contacts which means that you can be sure of value for money for every aspect of your day including your music. Beauvale Events offer a variety of packages to suit everyone’s needs whatever the budget so contact a member of our team today for some advice on how event management professionals can help you. Even if we cannot cover your area we are best placed to point you in the direction of somebody who can. Contact us now on info@beauvaleevents.co.uk for more information.