The first most obvious step to do when looking for a wedding photographer is check out their photos and make sure you like their style. But what should you look for after that? I’ve got you covered! Here are the 3 red flags to watch out for when hiring a wedding photographer. Plus a bonus tip.

RED FLAG 1

ONLINE GALLERIES ONLY

All professional wedding photographers understand the importance of providing their brides with great service on the wedding day. **But what comes after the wedding?**

Like everyone, I'm sure you have hundreds or even thousands of photos on your phone, online, and scattered about in many places. I even came across an online site last week (Flickr) that I had used in the early 2000's for personal phone uploads I had completely forgotten about. Stop and consider, do you really want your photos just in an online gallery where you'll have to dig through an email to find the link, or on a thumb drive you put in a drawer? NO! Of course not.

A good wedding photographer will be able to provide you with the following items:

1. Edited Digital Files

2. A high quality album

Your wedding photos are meant to be displayed and enjoyed forever as your family grows. The single best way to do this is with a wedding album, and all good photographers include them. In fact, I'd go so far as to say that wedding photographers who do not give out albums to their clients are doing a terrible disservice to them , and even cheating them out of their memories. Having this tangible book to look through and not having to search through emails, links, and desk drawers to remember the best day of your life is something that should not be taken lightly.

Ask, "Tell me about the album I can get from you with my wedding images."

The answer should come quickly and easily from your photographer. If it doesn’t - be careful!

RED FLAG 2

LOW LIGHT or NO LIGHT ISSUES

Chances are your reception may be inside or have events happening after sunset. Please make sure your photographer knows how to handle this situation. Literally dozens of times over the years as a videographer, I’ve had “Natural Light” photographers be so thankful I came prepared with video lights for the reception, because they didn’t know how to use a flash or understand event lighting. Also, over the years, I’ve been asked to try and “rescue” other photographers photos that were shot in low light at Hi ISO settings because they didn’t know what they were doing.

Ask, “How will you deal with low light or nighttime photography at my wedding?”

The response should leave you feeling confident they will be able to handle any lighting situation you may have at your wedding.

RED FLAG 3

PROFESSIONAL INTERACTION

The number of stories I’ve heard about photographers having an ego trip on the wedding day is quite common. It is imperative that your photographer be respectful and kind to everyone around on the wedding day. Make sure you check reviews from former brides and wedding pros before hiring someone! Your photographer should offer an engagement session as part of your package. It is not uncommon to meet with your photographer 2-3 times before your wedding day. If you’re not meeting with them at least once before your wedding day, be concerned. That is not normal!

Ask, “How will you handle conflict resolution on our wedding day should an issue arise between you and another vendor (video team, DJ, coordinator)?”

When you talk with other vendors, tell them who you’re thinking about using as a photographer and you’ll get a good gauge as to whether or not they are really a good photographer.

RED FLAG BONUS

DELIVERY TIMES

A professional wedding photographer will be able to provide you with your images in about 2 weeks time or less. Make sure you are 100% clear on when your images will be ready for you to see!

Ask, “How long does it take after the wedding before we can see our photos?”

If there is any hesitation or indication it’s going to take much longer than about 2 weeks - be concerned! That is not acceptable. (I understand it may take a bit longer during peak season, but it should not be more than 4 weeks max).

YOUR INPUT!

What are some things that concern you about your potential wedding photographer or videographer? Leave a comment below and help other brides with various scenarios and things to consider!