All I can really say is, I'm glad that's done. Picking the right photographer wasn't that "hard," nor was it a source of contention... it was just really overwhelming. There are a million photographers out there, all of them expensive, all of them (most of them?) talented. And since we were going in blind (planning a long-distance wedding, remember?) we were sifting through a few recommendations, and a whole lot of google searches.
My biggest fear going into this decision process, was getting images back and seeing something like this.
At the risk of sounding snooty, I do think Evan and I have a good idea of what makes good photography and what doesn't. I mean, we work in an industry where pictures tell the story. So why wouldn't we have great pictures telling OUR story?
That being said, photography is the one area where I really wasn't afraid to splurge. There are things on down the line that I have no problem pinching pennies on (flowers will die, that dress is worn ONCE) but this is how we will document our day... and most likely, remember it when it flies by too quickly. Obviously, we are working on a budget... and Annie Leibovitz denied my YouTube invite (okay, not really...) so we still took cost into consideration.
What I've found, is that many photographers have great packages these days. They'll include an engagement session, and/or bridals, and the biggest (most important!) is when they give you images on a disk with printing rights. This saves you so much in the long run.
Some of the shots we want most: (And here is where I want feedback to let us know what else!)
1.) Close-ups of the "I do's." I want to see Evan's face, not a far away glimpse!
2.) First kiss. (Obvi.)
3.) Tables at the reception so we can see everyone who came. (Suggestion from SIL Kelly!)
4.) First dance.
5.) Parents reactions.
Use of natural lighting was also really important to us. We're having an outdoor wedding, so let's use that to our advantage!
With the growth of digital technology, the creativity it's allowed photographers really does amaze me. As overwhelming as this whole thing was, I loved looking through every detail -- from ring shots, to decor, to the people. It was like an art enthusiast overload!
Eventually though, I couldn't decide for the life of me. I narrowed it down to five people I liked artistically, financially, and (via e-mails) personally. And it took Evan less than an hour to look over them and pick one, definitively. (All my over-thinking! All my laboring over every detail! And it takes him a matter of minutes?! Men.)
We talked to our guy on the phone, he seemed on top of it and organized (huge for me!) and we were sold. And I am relieved to have a big project checked off my list!
Big thanks to the write-up in Austin Monthly (and in turn my editor friend Madeline Hollern!) for leading us to him.
Now from all those already married -- what did you look for in your photographer? What are the pictures you thought most important, and maybe some others you wished you had? Would love all the advice!
