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FAQ – What are the different types of photography, and how do I choose the best one for me?

Choosing a photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make during the wedding planning process. Your photos will be the lasting memory of your special day! We highly recommend choosing a photographer that you are comfortable with and is extremely professional. It’s crucial to choose a photographer that understands your vision and can document it with style. You will be in touch with them a lot on the wedding day and it’s very important that you all “click” personally.

Questions: What are the different styles of photography?

First, it’s important to understand your desired photography style. There are several types of photographers:

  • Traditional – straightforward, typically shot at eye-level and posed
  • Photojournalistic – candid, documentary-style photographs
  • Fine Art – light, bright & airy, commonly associated with film
  • Editorial – posed, similar to what you’d see in a fashion magazine, feel like a photoshoot
  • Dark & Moody – dramatic, lots of shadows or harsh lines
  • Aerial – not for the entire wedding, but drone footage can sometimes be added-on
  • Black & White – more about editing, but some photographers will solely use black-and-white cameras
  • Landscape – another popular add-on for scenic destinations

Question: What’s the difference between digital and film photography?

  • Digital – Digital photography uses an electronic sensor to capture images. These digital photographs are stored on a memory card, and their resolution is measured in megapixels.
  • Film – Film has a higher dynamic range, which helps capture white and black details best. Film captures photos at higher resolution than most digital cameras.

Photographers typically specialize in one or two styles. Try to identify what you don’t like before you understand what you do like. Knowing which aesthetic suits your wedding style will help you narrow down the options for finding a professional. 

Booking a Photographer:

To get a feel for their personality, set up a call with a few photographers and let them direct/guide the conversation. This will be an indication of how they work and give you a good insight into what they will be like on the day-of. You’ll want to interview several photographers so you can learn more about their services. Here are a few questions to ask:

  • How many years of experience do you have shooting weddings?
  • What is the turnaround time for receiving back a full gallery?
  • What is their wedding day approach?
  • What makes you different from other photographers?
  • Do you help with posing?
  • Can you send a few galleries of their work at the venue or recent similar weddings?
  • What’s the gallery turnaround time?
  • Do they shoot with a 2nd shooter, and/or an assistant?

Reviewing Proposals:

Once you have a few proposals, compare the proposals side-by-side. Items to include and consider in your comparison:

  • What was their initial communication style like? Did they respond within a timely manner?
    • What was their proposal turnaround time like?
    • Did they express an eagerness to work with you?
  • Do you find the proposal to be complete and professional? Items to look for:
    • How many hours of coverage?
      • Cost for additional hours?
    • Is an engagement session included? Is rehearsal dinner coverage included?
      • Cost for additional events?
    • Is a printed album included?
      • If not, extra cost to do one?
    • Are travel expenses included?

After viewing each of the proposals and discussing with each photographer, does one stick out to you more than the others? If so, we suggest you go with that vendor. If you are torn between two and need guidance based on our experience, we are happy to help you decide.

Creating your photography shot list:

We highly suggest putting together a photo list for your photographer. This isn’t a list for inspiration, it’s to ensure your photographer captures your must haves the day-of. From the getting ready to the after party, you’ll want to remember every part of the day. When putting your formal family list together, think of them as the Holiday card photos you want. Here is our standard list to help get you started: Sample Photo List. As you go through the list, remember these are just ideas to guide you as you begin creating your own. Not every photo is required, so feel free to add any you may want, or remove those you don’t need.

Engagement Session:

If your schedule allows, try to do a test run with an engagement session or add coverage for your rehearsal dinner. This helps you get to know your photographer, and helps tame any nerves you may have about the day-of photos! Having some extra time with your photographer to get a feel for their personality and style is a great practice for what the wedding day will feel like. It’s also great practice for you and your fiance to have in front of the camera.

Have additional photography questions? Have a look through one of our favorite Photography Blogs, by Christian Oth.

xoxo

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