10 Top Tips - Super Shoots
Remember that it's YOUR big day, and your photgrapher should be sympathetic to your needs. If you have specific ideas for what photos you would like then…
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Browse through a selection of wedding magazines to get an idea of the kind of style that you might want. If you see something you like, cut it out to show people what you have in mind. Real-life weddings are a great source of inspiration.
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Before you arrange to meet a photographer, have a chat on the phone about the things you have in mind for your big day. You might find they're not right for you just by talking to them, and this could save you time and money.
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However, always meet someone before you actually book them. You'll want to make sure you feel comfortable with them, because they're going to be with you and your guests all day, on one of the biggest days of your life. Make sure they are a 'people' person who you think your guests would also like.
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When you meet with a photographer, have a list of questions you want to ask. Also make sure they are insured and have a back-up plan, in case they fall ill just before the wedding.
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Many photographers will only show you their best work, so make sure you look through at least two whole weddings in their portfolio - that way you will see if their work is consistent.
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If you find someone you really like, book them quickly because good photographers get booked up to two years in advance - I have bookings for 2011 already!
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Once you've booked somebody, make sure you have your cost and package details written into a proper contract. That way there won't be any nasty surprises later on.
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I do a pre-wedding shoot with all my clients a few months before the wedding. This gives us a chance to meet, and gets them used to being in front of the camera.
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I always call my clients a few days before the wedding to go through any last-minute details that might have changed. Make sure your photographer does this too.
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You should feel happy enough with your photographer that you shouldn't need to worry about them on the day itself. If they know what they're doing, they will be getting on with it quietly, leaving you to enjoy the whole experience of your big day. just by talking to them, and this could save you time and money.
Our thanks to Sophie Pierre for these top tips. Sophie's work is featured regularly in Wedding Ideas. For details of her photo packages, see the Sophie Pierre website and her blog or call her on 01935 433078.