Finding a wedding photographer in Utah’s competitive market
For some couples planning a wedding, searching for a photographer that will fit both their style preferences and their budget can be a tough feat. For others, it can be one of the most exciting parts of the wedding preparation, like a treasure hunt that never ends.
When it comes to good photographers, Utah has a competitive market. With the rise of social media, every photographer wants to get their name and brand out into the open.
There are so many different photographers and styles out there. Finding one that will fit an engaged couples’ personality may not be as straightforward as finding the perfect cake flavor or the ultimate wedding favor, but it can be made just a little bit easier with a few simple steps.
It all takes time
When a couple knows that they are close to getting engaged, they shouldn’t wait to plan out their wedding until after that magical proposal day. Taking time to plan the wedding is one of the best parts of the engagement period, but this doesn’t mean that a couple can’t dream of what they want their dream wedding to look like before they set a date. Take the time to scroll through dreamy Pinterest boards of eye-catching photography, pin the ones that fit the style you’re are looking for, and see how other photographers measure up to your expectations.
Make an excel spreadsheet of potential photographers
Along with all the traditional things that come with weddings, couples are often most worried about how much money they can (or can’t) spend on the wedding itself. Many brides are focused on finding a photographer that will help them capture their favorite moments of their special day without having to spend an arm and a leg.
A spreadsheet can be formulated even before the ‘yes’ moment. Many brides have been dreaming of who would take their wedding pictures for years before that moment. It’s never too early to start planning. A spreadsheet can include names of potential photographers and where they are located (or willing to travel to), as well as prices for engagement pictures, bridals (sometimes known as “first looks”), wedding day pictures and reception shots. It can be really helpful to write all the prices down and put them right next to each other to compare prices with the next photographer.
Connect with photographers
One of the best ways to find out if a specific photographer will fit your needs and your wants is to connect with them. Send them an email or direct message, visit their website, or fill out their Facebook questionnaires. This will help you establish a connection with potential photographers that are willing to work with you and help you plan out your special day.
One of the best ways to have a personalized experience with your potential photographer is to tell them what you’re expecting and lay it all out for them to see. This will help you decide if they can give you the experience you are hoping for.
Make a Pinterest board of pictures you are hoping to capture
Pinterest boards of your favorite wedding pictures can help photographers get just pose you are hoping for. Your significant other might not be 100% into all the picture-taking endeavors, but they’ll be more willing if you already know what you are looking for. Having a Pinterest board can make planning locations and times for pictures less of a hassle, both in the planning phase and the day of.
Plan ahead of time
If you think your photographer is going to be able to get you in last-minute on that one magical day you were hoping for, think again. Photography should always be planned ahead. Take time to plan out your matching outfits, check the weather and pick locations — all while coordinating with your photographer. Photographers that have to travel might have requests for early morning or early afternoon sessions so that they can fit other shoots both before and after yours. Be considerate of their time in these situations. They are fitting you into their schedule, and they are taking the time to take your pictures. Remember this.
No matter what your budget or style, there is sure to be a photographer out there that will fit your needs and help you capture all the moments surrounding your special day.
—kortni.marie.wells@aggiemail.usu.edu
@kortnimarie