Michigan-Detroit

Picking a vendor

How did you pick your photographer?  I had my first meeting with one and I really didn’t know what to expect.  We looked at there work and they went over the contract and packages/prices and their style of work and that was it.  They really didn’t ask us too much and I was a little disappointed when I mention that we didn’t know where to go for photo cause of being winter and they had no suggestion nor said anything about helping us find somewhere if we went with them.  I don’t know if that’s something they would do or not.  I’m just confused at what to look for.  Were meeting with another one this week and FI really doesn’t know why because we can see their work online and we know how much they cost.  I think we should meet them at least to see their personality but I don’t know what else to look for when meeting with them.  Any thoughts?

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Re: Picking a vendor

  • edited December 2011
    I only met with one photographer, but I liked the work and the prices and when we met I felt a good vibe (for lack of a better explanation). So we booked. She asked us about locations, like what we wanted and if there was anyplace we had in mind and also suggested some places for us. I didn't really know what to expect either, we just sort of chatted about the wedding and she asked some questions about how many in the wedding party, where, when, etc. I had some basic questions for her that I had googled before the meeting.

    I would meet with the person in real life to get a feel for their personality, and I find that looking at printed photos can be different than online pictures.

    Meet with some others and see how you feel - perhaps you'll find someone you feel a stronger connection with (that sounds cheesy but you need to feel good about the people you're hiring).
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  • sunkissed212sunkissed212 member
    1000 Comments
    edited December 2011
    I think it's important for you to have a connection with your photographer. That might sound silly but you want to make sure you are comfortable around them because it will reflect in your photos if you aren't. I would expect that a good photographer would offer up suggestions of locations to take photos depending on where your ceremony/reception is. If they aren't familiar with the area that's one thing but I would hope that they would check around with other photogs (they do network) and ask of some good locations.

    I only met with 1 photog, Amanda Williams. And I booked her a week later (I was ready to book her on the spot but wanted to sleep on it just in case). I loved her work online, and the additional pics I saw during our meeting I loved even more. She was very easy to talk to and we were both very comfortable with her personality and her talent and work. So there was no question.  Remember that photog's online galleries only show a sampling of their work. FI and I looked through about 10 full albums of photos during our meeting with Amanda.

    You don't have to share who you met with but from what you've said, I would definitely keep shopping around for someone that is more helpful and devoted to their clients needs and expectations. You won't have all the questions because you've never done this before...but they have, so they should be able to provide you with a lot of information you may not think of on your own. You shouldn't be left wondering and unsure.
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  • edited December 2011

    I'm not sure why the vendor would even ask you questions. You're supposed to do most of the asking. One of the most important things is that you feel that chemistry between you, your FI, and the photog. My FI HATES getting his pic taken. Our photog reassured him that we wouldn't have too many posey pics, they're mostly candid...which is what I want. If the photog couldn't suggest any places for you to get outdoor pics taken in the winter, you probably shouldn't go with them. A good photog will name a ton of places and give suggestions. If you don't have a good feeling about them, DON'T book them. Definitely go to the next photog appt. and see how that one works. We met with two photogs and it really came down to price because we connected with both of them. Here are some things you could ask:

    -Do they offer all day coverage?
    -How much of a deposit is required?
    -What is all included in their packages?
    -What is the turnaround time in receiving your pics?
    -What kind of style are they?
    -What happens if they get sick or are unable to be there on your day?

    All good photogs should be able to answer these questions without hesitation. You can also tell them if you like B&W or not, and other effects the photog might do. When you look at their work, make sure you tell them if you see something you like. HTH!

  • edited December 2011
    I agree with you. For a photographer you want to make sure you like their personality. If you're not comfortable with them it will show in your photos! Good luck on your search!
  • sunkissed212sunkissed212 member
    1000 Comments
    edited December 2011
    Also ask about what rights you have to your photos. Our photog signs a release that gives us full rights to all of our photos so that we can print however many copies we want, wherever we want, for whomever we want.  Some photogs will make you order prints through them and charge for them, I don't like that. Obviously if you want a professional album, you pay for that (unless it's included in your package) but above and beyond that, you should know how it works.
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  • edited December 2011
    I would shop around. They should have at the very least been able to throw out a coupleof ideas for locations for you.  Like all the other girls said you just know when its the right one.  You have a good vibe from them and you just click.  You will spend more than likely 8 hours if not more with the person you hire so you want to be sure you like them and feel comfortable wround them.  Good luck!!
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