Tips On Hiring A Wedding Photographer
For many, hiring a wedding photographer can be a stressful and daunting task. The general public has little knowledge of the technical expertise required to capture your Big Day, what styles they want to be shot in or how much the photography services should cost.
First are foremost, figure out what you want. Take the time to browse through bridal magazines to check out different photography styles. After you have decided on the kind of style you want to be shot in (and there are too many to name here) you won’t have to waste your time considering photographers who can’t or won’t deliver your dream photos.
Decide on a budget. Capturing your wedding shouldn’t break the bank, but don’t skimp on it either. Decide exactly what you want to capture and how you would like your photos presented afterwards. When it comes to negotiations you can then avoid being roped into undesired extras while making sure you get everything you want.
Get Recommendations. Ask friends, family, your wedding photographer or venue for photographers that they would recommend and ask to see a sample of their work. If you are branching outside of your circle ask the photographer for a variety of samples from different shoots as well as references.
Conduct interviews. In addition to reviewing portfolios and checking references always consider personality. This person will be sharing in one of the most intimate days of your life, it is imperative that you feel comfortable and have complete trust that they will capture your special day exactly how you desire.
Check Availability. Wedding photographers are in high demand. Be sure to start the search early and get a contract signed to guarantee that your dream photographer doesn’t get scooped up after you have already sent out the invitations.
TIPS FOR YOUR PHOTOSHOOT
Dawn Stenzel photography wants your images to be the best they can be. Here are some tips and ideas that may help you to make this happen.
Make sure you get a good night’s sleep prior to the shoot. This will help prevent the un-wantedbags under the eyes as well as help give you the patience and stamina that is needed during a shoot. After all, we all look and feel better after a good nights sleep!
Your normal diet should include the daily recommended consumption of water. This alone will add greatly to the look and healthiness of your skin.
Striking different poses with the same facial expression does little to enhance your portfolio. Spend some time in front of a mirror learning and developing a variety of expressions. You may want to consider studying the expressions and body language of the top models in your field for examples and ideas. If you are just starting out your photographer will be able to share ideas with you.
I can appreciate those models, dancers and people in the talent industry that prefer to wear as little make up as possible. However, I prefer to have a make up artist and even possibly a hair stylist on set whenever I am shooting, although this is not always possible due to the pricing package the model has chosen. I am going to include a few make up tips for if a make up artist is not present for your photo shoot.
If you leave all your other make up at home never go to a photo shoot without your facial powder. The freshly scrubbed face will undoubtedly present undesirable highlights in the nose and forehead. If you are intent on the natural look you can find a translucent powder that will tone down the highlights (consult a make up artist for recommendations). There is only so much your photographer can do with high key lighting and you certainly do not want your images to project a shinny or oily looking skin.
A matte look can make a big difference in the quality of your headshots. By using a solid foundation evenly blended well into the neck and upper chest area we are able to avoid changes in colors.
Your eye shadow should be a lighter shade to avoid the “raccoon look”. A lighter shade gives a flattering appearance of bringing the eyes forward rather than the unflattering deep set appearance from a darker shade.
Be sure to carry your hair brush, hair spray, and/or gel to the shoot. Keep hair and jewelry accessories small. Hair styles can make a drastic difference in a model’s look.
Try to avoid sun tanning just before your shoot. Start tanning weeks before to avoid sun burn and tan lines on the day of your shoot.
Dawn Stenzel Photography 