What makes a great wedding photographer?
Tastes differ, and by saying that a certain photographer is "great" we just express our personal impression. Still, there are several more or less objective criteria by which a truly great wedding photographer can be assessed:
- up-to-date technical skills;
- vast experience, backed up by a massive portfolio;
- good eye for colour, lighting and composition;
- profound understanding of human psychology;
- sincere passion towards photography as an art and towards the more mundane work at weddings;
- easygoing character and great social skills;
- punctuality and responsibility.
Sometimes it's not quite possible to find a person who would match all of the above-mentioned criteria. Or, maybe, this person will charge a bit too much for his or her services. In this case, a certain sacrifice has to be done.
This might sound too pragmatic, but in case you have to choose, it's wiser to hire a punctual and responsible photographer than a creative artsy genius. Working at a wedding is not a means of self-expression for a photographer, but quite a demanding work. If you have a chance to talk to couples who have previously booked this or that photographer to their ceremonies, try to get to know their sincere impression of this person. If they confirm that the photographer arrives on time, looks neat, doesn't get drunk (things happen!) and makes nice pictures, feel free to book him.
It's not a problem to find a really great photographer. People who are successful in their profession and are truly passionate about it are very good at marketing themselves. They are well represented online, they eagerly share their contacts and they always have time to talk to their prospective clients. So when you come across such a person, don't hesitate to get in touch with him or her and discuss the opportunities of hiring this talent for your wedding.
