Choosing your wedding photographer

The Experience – What to expect when you hire a wedding photographer

Let’s face it, most couples have never planned a wedding before, and the task can feel a bit daunting! Choosing a wedding photographer is a deeply personal process. The photographs captured on your wedding day will serve as timeless mementos of one of the most significant days of your life. Here are a few reasons why the decision is so personal:

Style and Aesthetic

Every wedding photographer has a unique style and aesthetic. Some may specialise in traditional, posed shots, while others focus on candid, documentary-style photography. It’s essential to find a photographer whose style aligns with your vision for your wedding photos.

Connection and Comfort

Your wedding photographer will be with you throughout the day, capturing intimate moments and emotions. It’s crucial to feel comfortable and at ease with them. Building a rapport and connection with your photographer can significantly enhance the quality of your photos.

Budget and Value

Wedding Photography is an investment, and prices can vary widely depending on the wedding photographer’s experience, reputation, and package offerings. It’s essential to find a wedding photographer who fits within your budget while also providing the quality and value you desire.

Trust and Reputation

Researching and vetting potential photographers is key to finding someone you can trust to capture your special day. Reading reviews, viewing portfolios, and getting recommendations from friends and family can help you gauge a photographer’s reputation and reliability.

Creativity and Flexibility

A great wedding photographer is not only skilled at capturing beautiful images but also creative and flexible in adapting to different environments and situations. Look for someone who can think on their feet and find unique perspectives to make your photos truly special.

Ultimately, your wedding photographer should be someone who understands your vision, respects your preferences, and has the technical skills and artistic sensibility to deliver stunning images that you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Take the time to research and meet with potential photographers to ensure you find the perfect match for your wedding day.

“I had the pleasure of having Martin photograph my wedding – he was spectacular! Neither myself or my husband are too comfortable with posing for photos very long (nor are we great at it). We wanted our wedding to be intimate, and not a show. Martin was a fantastic photographer. He captured all the moments I hoped for and he did so in such an inconspicuous and natural way. I love that in addition to posed photos, he caught so many great candid moments among the wedding party and our guests. Beautiful finished products, thanks Martin!”

Mary Hia (Mary & Caleb)

It’s All About Keeping It Natural!

My style of wedding photography can be described as capturing moments naturally and authentically, with a focus on creating a relaxed atmosphere for the couple and their guests. I strive to document the day as it unfolds, avoiding staged or posed shots, and instead preferring to capture genuine emotions and interactions. My approach is unobtrusive and discreet, allowing the couple and their loved ones to fully enjoy the celebration without feeling pressured or interrupted.

When couples describe my presence at their wedding, they often express that I made them feel relaxed and at ease. They often mention that having me there was more like having an extra wedding guest rather than just a photographer. I strive to blend seamlessly into the celebration, capturing genuine moments and emotions without being intrusive. My goal is to create a comfortable atmosphere so that the couple can fully enjoy their special day while I document it with creativity and care.

You Have Decided You Want To Book Me….What’s Next?

Booking me as your wedding photographer is a straightforward process. Here’s what you need to do:

  1. Confirm Your Booking: Reach out via phone call or email to confirm your booking and discuss the details of your wedding.
  2. Deposit: To secure the date, I require a deposit of 25% of the package you’ve selected. This ensures that your date is reserved exclusively for you.
  3. Contract: I will send you a contract via email for your review and signature. This contract outlines the terms and conditions of our agreement, ensuring clarity and peace of mind for both parties.
  4. Confirmation: Once the contract is signed and the deposit is received, your booking is complete! You can rest assured that your wedding photography needs are taken care of.

It’s as simple as that! I’m here to make the process smooth and hassle-free for you, so you can focus on enjoying your special day. Looking forward to capturing beautiful memories for you!

The Wedding Day – What Should You Expect?

The following break down will give you a running order for a typical wedding. This is of course not set in stone. Do make your wedding your own! If you want to mix things up then do so, it is YOUR day!

Preps in the Morning

  • Candid photography covering important items like the wedding dress, shoes, and flowers.
  • First look with parents and portraits prior to the ceremony.

Ceremony

  • Arrive early to capture arrivals and seating.
  • Discreet and unobtrusive photography during the ceremony, subject to permission.
  • Capture vows and signing of the register.
  • Allow time for the couple to meet guests before group photos.

Group Photos

  • Limit the number to allow the couple to meet their guests and enjoy the drinks reception.

Couple Shoot

  • Informal and relaxed with minimal posed shots.
  • Typically 30 to 40 minutes away from guests to enjoy the moment.

Drinks Reception

  • Capture candid and natural moments.
  • Photograph table setups, guests taking seats, and couple being announced.

Speeches and Guest Reactions

  • Document speeches and guest reactions.

Meal Service

  • Take a break during meal service (nobody wants to have their photos taken as they eat!)

Second Couple Shoot

  • Opportunity for a brief shoot, depending on light availability.

Party and Dancing

  • Capture candid photos of guests enjoying the party.
  • Document the cutting of the cake and the couple’s first dance.
  • Stay until you feel you have enough dancing shots, usually the first 4 to 5 dances.

Easy, isn’t it? Let’s do this!

After The Wedding

Following your wedding day, I will try my best to get some sneak previews over to you for you to share with your family and friends! I know you will be keen to announce to the world that you have tied the knot!

For the full gallery, I will need to ask you to be patient with me! At peak wedding season, my turnaround time is about 8 weeks (sometimes this may take a bit longer; it all depends on how busy I am). But I will try to get your edited, high-resolution images to you as quickly as possible!

If you haven’t ordered an album at the time of booking, don’t worry! We can always look at album options once you have received your gallery!