Most things couples pay for at a wedding are gone within a day. The photographs are the exception.
Choosing a photographer and videographer is one of the most important decisions in wedding planning, and one where couples often focus on price and forget the details that matter. Here is how to choose well.
Galleries and style
Every photographer shows their best shots on Instagram. Ask to see full wedding galleries, from start to finish, including indoor shots in poor light, crowded receptions and group photos. That shows what they deliver on an ordinary day as well as a perfect one. Some photographers work in a documentary style, capturing moments as they happen. Others direct poses and create editorial-looking images. Some use bright, airy editing; others prefer rich, warm tones. Decide which style you like and choose a photographer whose portfolio matches it, rather than hoping they will change their style for you.
West African weddings and packages
A traditional engagement, a church wedding and a reception are very different events. Choose someone who has photographed the kind of ceremonies you are having, and who understands the key moments: the presentation of items, the bride’s entrance, the libation, the money spray, the families together. Packages differ. Ask:
- How many hours of coverage, and what happens if the event runs late?
- How many photographers and videographers will attend?
- How many edited photos will you receive, and in what format?
- Is a printed album included, and what size?
- Does the video package include a short summary film and a full-length edit?
- When will you receive the photos and video?
Contracts and timelines
Put everything in writing: date, times, locations, deliverables, delivery dates, payment schedule, cancellation terms and what happens if the photographer cannot attend. Many disputes between couples and vendors come from verbal agreements. Share your schedule with your photographer early. Allow time for couple portraits, family group photos and travel between venues. Delays in wedding days often come from photographs taking longer than planned, so build in buffer time.
Family photos and backups
Give the photographer a list of family and friend groups you want photographed, and assign a relative who knows everyone to call people into place. It saves time and makes sure no one important is missed. Photographers work long days. Arrange a meal and a short break for them, timed so they do not miss key moments.
When you receive your photos, save copies in more than one place. Print your favourites. Phones get lost; albums on a shelf are harder to lose. Years after the wedding, the photographs will be how your children see the day. That is worth choosing carefully.
