Looking for the perfect photographer for your elopement, but not sure where to start? It may seem overwhelming at first when searching for the perfect photographer for your big day. You might not know where to start, what to look for, or who to ask. I am here to give you a few pointers to get going to jumpstart your search.
1. Start With Research
You may have a photographer friend that could get the job done, but will it stand the test of time like a hired professional? The best place to begin the search for a professional would be to begin combing through reviews, ratings, and testimonials for individual photographers in this field. By going through those assorted publications, you are getting the perspective of prior clients they have worked with. What’s key in reviewing these publications is the extremes: the highest reviews and the lowest. This gives you an insight into whether the professional is worth their salt; you get a look into their best attributes and their worst. Of course, some discernment is necessary with both, looking for terms like “communication”, “direction”, and “confidence” with a “poor” or “great” preceding it will help with the process.
While you are digging through these reviews, it would also benefit you greatly to look at their site and see if there are any packages listed or any pricing available. Being able to determine whether or not the photographer in question is within your budget can be a huge relief. Plus, if you want to have prints of your elopement photos after the fact, being able to go through the photographer rather than another entity would an added bonus.
2. Define Your Style
Consider the overall mood and aesthetic you envision for your elopement and look for photographers whose style aligns with your vision. Thinking about the mood of the session is a long-term plan of sorts. What that entails for you and your partner, as well as what the photographer needs to account for. Following the mood comes the aesthetic style; when thinking about what style of photographs you want out the shoot, you have to consider your style. Do you want your photos to be candid and natural, or do you prefer a more posed and editorial look? Ultimately, it comes down to what you have envisioned for the session and what you think will best reflect your new marriage at the end of the day.
3. Trust Your Gut
When it all comes down to it, this is the choice that needs to be considered: are they the right fit for you? Do you think their prior work reflects your vision? What reservations do you have about their work, if any? Ultimately, choosing an elopement photographer is a personal decision. Trust your instincts and go with the photographer who not only meets your technical requirements but also makes you feel comfortable and understood. The right photographer will be able to capture the love and intimacy of your elopement, creating timeless memories that you'll cherish forever.
The perfect photographer will take some time and effort, but the end result will be absolutely worth it. Hopefully, with these tips at your disposal, you will be on your way to discovering the perfect photographer for your special day that will document your elopement and create beautiful images that tell your unique love story. I hope that this article will add to your day.
Warmest regards,
Logan Clark