Real Weddings

18 real weddings SPRING/SUMMER 2016 Y ou've carefully considered every detail, from the calligraphy on the invitations to the scent of the flowers. When the big day arrives, make sure your treasured moments are immortalized with swoon-worthy photos. 1. See the big picture After browsing an array of wedding photographers' websites, you've fallen head-over- heels for alluring images of couples posed in classic and au courant settings and styles. Before you get swept away by the photos, make sure you consider the big picture. "It's important to see a series of photos from the same wedding to see the consistency of the wedding photos," says Ellen Ho of Hong Photography. And make sure to also look at a photographer's blog, advises Barb Walker, lead planner at French Kiss Events. "While a website showcases their best images, the blog will show you a more complete snapshot realadvice Picture Perfect Seven tips for hiring a wedding photographer By Janet Gyenes Illustration by Mandy Lau of how they capture the entire day." 2. Consider talent and experience "A great photographer can be judged by their work," says longtime wedding photographer, Hamid Attie of Hamid Attie Photography. Talent, however, is only half of the decision- making equation. Hiring a novice might not break your budget, but the skills established photographers have attained, shoot after shoot, account for plenty. "eir experience can be judged by their ability to help you plan your wedding day well – as it pertains to photography – and also their ability to take into account that this is your one wedding day, even though they may shoot 30 a year," he says. 3. Make a connection It's true: You'll spend the majority of your wedding day with your photographer, so make sure your personalities mesh. Walker suggests narrowing down your favourite photographers to two or three, and then setting up a phone call or coffee date. "Make sure you have a connection with them, and that it is the right fit for everyone," she says, including your guests. Attie adds, "Hire a photographer who has the people skills to capture the great candids as they happen." e day will be overflowing with emotion and unexpected "moments between the moments" are as important as classic money shots, like the married couple's first kiss. 4. Save the date "Many of the top photographers start booking weddings more than a year out, so as soon as your venue and date are locked in, start the hunt!" says Walker. Remember, a photographer can shoot just one wedding a day, so unless you're willing to change your date, you may have to settle for your second or third choice. "Most photographers will take a retainer deposit that reserves the date, with the remainder to be paid closer to your wedding or upon completion of images."

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