| Finding a the right wedding photographer for your big | | | | While a photojournalist will have you pose for some |
| day should be a fun and exciting experience. It will | | | | of the traditional portraits, the more creative ones will |
| help if you're armed with some insight on | | | | be environmental portraits. The key to a good |
| photography and common questions to ask. As a | | | | environmental portrait is the location, lighting and |
| professional wedding photographer with over 15 | | | | background. When you view a photographers |
| years of experience, I've met with many potential | | | | portfolio, pay special attention to the location |
| wedding clients. While everyone's taste varies, the | | | | portraits. Did the photographer choose an interesting |
| goal is always the same, getting the best | | | | location and composition? What's going on in the |
| photographer for you and your budget. | | | | background? Do the bride and groom stand out? |
| Now that most photographer's portfolio's are available | | | | Available light can make a portrait special too so take |
| online, a good portion of your work is already done. | | | | note of light, shadows and the photographers ability |
| With a click of the mouse, you can view work from | | | | to mix various light sources. Also, look for candid |
| as many photographers as you can stand. A good | | | | moments and emotions. Do the images look staged |
| way to save time in your search is to think about | | | | or real? |
| other weddings you've attend and photos you | | | | Now that you've decided on the style that's right for |
| viewed in the past. Did you like the photographer's | | | | you, it's time to meet with the photographer. The |
| style? Was it studio, candid, photojournalism or a | | | | most important question should be, who's shooting |
| mixture? Most good professionals have experience in | | | | my wedding? If you viewed a certain portfolio, you'll |
| various fields of photography but specialize in a | | | | want that photographer to show up the day of your |
| certain style. | | | | wedding. Outline what's included in your wedding |
| Studio photography usually encompasses traditional | | | | contract, date, time, cost, and additional services. |
| poses with lights and backdrops. A good portion of | | | | How much is the deposit and will it hold the date? |
| these shots are pre-determined and take place in a | | | | Does the photographer double book dates? Do you |
| controlled situation. You'll still get a fair share of candid | | | | get a copy of the images on CD and the right to |
| shots too but the focus here is on portraiture. Does | | | | print them? What is the refund policy? |
| the photographer have good command of the | | | | You'll undoubtedly have questions of your own and |
| lighting? Look for harsh shadows under the eyes or | | | | you'll gain some experience if you meet with several |
| on the walls or backdrop. Are the posed images | | | | of the wedding photographers Chicago has to |
| stuffy or casual and fun? Taking these tips into | | | | choose from. Bring your future spouse and don't be |
| account will help you find the right studio | | | | afraid to have a family member or friend tag along |
| photographer. Having a photojournalist cover your | | | | too. This is a big decision and you want to make the |
| wedding day will give your images a more | | | | right one. |
| spontaneous feel. | | | | |