Apart from the location you have selected for your ceremony and reception most couples find that the decision of their wedding photographer is right up there in terms of important factors to decide.

I have met and worked with many couples who quite often find themselves in a dilemma over which wedding photographer to select.  Bridal magazines and websites are abundant with options but how do you work out where to even start?

A perfect place to begin is by asking people you know who have used a wedding photographer and finding out about their experience. Second to this would be to trust the advice of a professional wedding planner, they have often worked with different photographers and know who is the best in the industry.  However if you find that you still need some help then the following is a how to guide to assist you in making the decision.

Awards & Memberships – Upon flicking through bridal magazines you will find that some photographers reference awards they may have won such as various Kodak photo awards or 2008 Couple of the Year Photographer.  They will also specify if they are a member of NZIPP (New Zealand Institute of Professional Photography).  This is a good place to start if you’re looking to research different photographers within the region where you are getting married – check out www.nzipp.org.nz

Testimonials – Ask for testimonials from previous clients, many will have this readily available and if they are truly fantastic will have references that rave about how amazing they are.

Budget - A wedding photographer can cost anything from $2,000 to $10,000 with various packages that include albums, limited or unlimited time and numbers of shots.  Ask to see a pricelist and package options or if there is any flexibility to create something that will work with your budget.

Their Work – Check out their website which will contain portfolios of their wedding work.  If you have arranged an appointment request to see their sample albums so you can gain a greater feel for their style and quality.

Personality – You will more than likely spend more time with your wedding photographer than any of your guests.  It is important that you are comfortable with this person and you can relax and be yourself.  There is little point selecting a photographer that makes you pose in formal positions if you and your fiancé are quite laid back and relaxed preferring more natural candid shots.  Make sure that they have the ability to listen to what you want.

Appearance – Your wedding photographer will be amongst your guests and chatting with them throughout the day.  Imagine your photographer turning up in shorts and jandals if you’re having a formal church wedding followed by a black tie reception.  Ensure you communicate the style of your wedding and ask how they will be dressed on the day.

Style – Wedding photographers will have a particular style from traditional to artistic to photojournalism.  You will get a feel for their style by reviewing their work; check this out online first before making an appointment time.

Other things to remember

•    If you are also booking a wedding videographer check to see if they have worked with the photographer previously.
•    Check whether the photographer has shot any weddings at the venue you have selected.
•    Make sure you have a signed contract that outlines the price and date of your wedding.
•    Meet with the photographer at the venue/s prior to the day to agree on where you would like the photos to be taken.
•    Prepare a list in advance of all the shots you would like so nothing gets missed.
•    Discuss timing and the schedule for your photographs.  Take in to account the amount of time between ceremony and the reception for your bridal party photos.
•    Make sure you share anything that is really important to you for the day, this may include something like a double chin that you hate but for you it’s important that the photos are captured so as not to accentuate it.

Questions you may want to ask?

•    If I hire you, will you be the one taking my photos?
•    Do you work with an assistant?
•    How soon after the wedding will we get our photos?
•    Do you charge an additional travel fee?
•    What options are available for an album?
•    How long do you keep the images for?
•    What are the costs for re-ordering images?
•    Do you offer any digital touch ups to the photographs such as B&W adjustments, colouring, antique sepia tones etc. and are there any additional charges for this?
•    Do you use digital or film or a combination of both?
•    Can we have a copy of all the photos on CD?
•    Will there be availability of all the images on a website for friends & family to view.
•    Do you have extra equipment in the case of a breakage?


The most valuable piece of advice I can give you when selecting a wedding photographer is to trust yourself.  Once you have met with 2 or 3 you will get a feel for their style and personality.  If you have a great rapport with them, you love their work and they’re available on your wedding day then you’re on your way to selecting the person who will capture your memories you will treasure for a lifetime.

Remember if you do all the planning upfront you will be able to relax and enjoy your day knowing you are in good hands.

My favourite wedding photographers

Michelle Wobcke Photographer – www.michellewobcke.co.nz
Chris Dillon Photography – www.simplyphotos.co.nz
Blair Quax – www.shinestudios.co.nz
Victor Carter www.victorcarter.co.nz
Karamika Photography – www.karamika.com
Joanna Wickham – www.jowickham.co.nz

Article by Lisa Robertson

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Weddings by Lisa Robertson offers a range of different package options:
Independent Princess is a starter package or Ribbons & Lace will assist you in finalising details for the 2-3 months leading up to the day.  For more information check out www.lisarobertson.co.nz or contact Lisa on This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

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