How to get the most out of your consultation with your wedding photographer

The consultation with your photographer is a golden opportunity to ensure your vision aligns perfectly with their expertise. Think of it a little like dating; you’ve got to have great compatibility since they’re going to be with you throughout the entire wedding day and maybe even beyond. Having said all that, here’s a guide on how to make the most of your consultation, ensuring that every precious moment of your wedding day is captured exactly the way you want.

Come prepared with your vision

Know Your Style: Before your consultation, take some time to explore different photography styles. Do you love the elegance of traditional photography, the storytelling aspect of photojournalism, or the dreamy look of fine art photography? Having a clear idea of your preferred style will help guide the conversation and ensure that your photographer is on the same page.

Create a Mood Board: Gather inspiration from Pinterest, Instagram, or wedding magazines and create a mood board to share with your photographer. Include examples of poses, lighting, and compositions that resonate with you. This visual aid will help communicate your aesthetic preferences and give your photographer a clear understanding of what you envision for your wedding day. Speaking from personal experience, there is nothing better for a wedding photographer than working with a couple who knows what they want. 

Share your love story

Personal Background: Your love story is unique, and sharing it with your photographer helps them capture your special moments more authentically. Talk about how you met, your engagement story, and what you love most about each other. This personal connection not only helps to build a rapport with your photographer (more on that later) but also to infuse your photos with the essence of your relationship. In fact, I provide all of my clients with a form to fill out listing these types of details, so that I have a better understanding of where they're coming from.

Special Moments and Traditions: If you have any special moments or traditions planned for your wedding day, let your photographer know. Whether it’s a first look, a cultural ritual, or a surprise dance performance, sharing these details ensures that your photographer is prepared to capture every significant moment. Of course, we’ll always have our cameras ready, but it’s super helpful to know when those moments are going to happen.

Discuss the wedding day timeline

Detailed Schedule: A well-structured timeline is essential for a smooth and stress-free wedding day. Share your entire wedding day schedule with your photographer, including the ceremony, reception, and any pre-wedding preparations. Discussing the timeline allows your photographer to plan accordingly and ensures that no important moments are missed. Plus, the photographer will be able to follow along during the day so that they’re kept in the loop about any delays, etc. 

Photography Priorities: Identify the key moments and people you want to be highlighted in your wedding photos. Are there specific family members or friends you want to focus on? Do you have a special location in mind for couple portraits? Communicating these priorities helps your photographer tailor their approach to meet your expectations. This day is all about you, so your wish is your wedding photographer’s command. 

Ask the right questions

Experience and Portfolio: Take this opportunity to learn more about your photographer’s experience and expertise. Ask to see their portfolio, especially the weddings they have photographed in Aruba. Keep an eye out for consistency in quality and style, and make sure their previous work aligns with what you’re looking for.

Packages and Pricing: Discuss the different photography packages and what each one includes. Understand the pricing structure and any additional costs that may arise, such as travel fees or overtime charges. Clarity on these details will help you make an informed decision that fits your budget and avoid any awkward conversations down the road. 

Backup Plans: Inquire about their contingency plans in case of unexpected situations, such as bad weather or equipment failure. A professional photographer should always have backup equipment and strategies to ensure that every aspect of your wedding day is captured flawlessly, regardless of any unforeseen circumstances.

Establish a connection.

Chemistry and Comfort: Your wedding photographer will be by your side for most of your wedding day, so it’s essential to feel comfortable and have good chemistry with them. Pay attention to how well you connect during the consultation. Do they listen attentively to your ideas and concerns? Do you feel at ease sharing your vision with them? A strong personal connection will translate into more natural and heartfelt photographs. In order to build that connection, I actually schedule 2-3 meetings with all my wedding clients after the initial consultation! 

Conclusion

Your consultation with your wedding photographer is a crucial step in ensuring that your wedding day is captured beautifully and authentically. By coming prepared with your vision, sharing your love story, discussing the wedding day timeline, asking the right questions, and establishing a personal connection, you’ll set the stage for a successful and enjoyable collaboration.