Powered by RedCircle
Welcome to The Wedding Reporter Podcast! In today’s episode, we dive into the essentials of selecting the perfect wedding photographer. Our guest is Elizabeth Steed, a seasoned wedding and boudoir photographer from Franklin, Tennessee, With Whimsy and Wilder. Elizabeth celebrated photographing her 200th wedding last spring, marking nearly a decade in the industry. Here’s what she shared about finding the right photographer for your big day.
Elizabeth’s Journey into Photography
Elizabeth began her journey in high school, snapping photos just for fun. While she initially pursued horticulture in college, photography remained a significant part of her life. In 2012, she turned professional, and by 2015, after losing her job as a greenhouse manager, she transitioned to full-time photography, shooting 26 weddings in her first full-time year alone. Since then, she has consistently photographed 30 to 40 weddings annually.
Importance of Clicking with Your Photographer
One of the most crucial aspects Elizabeth emphasizes is the importance of connecting with your photographer. She explains that a photographer is with the couple throughout the wedding day, from preparations to the lively dance floor moments. Feeling comfortable with your photographer ensures natural and genuine photos. Elizabeth notes, “If you’re comfortable with me, then you’re going to be comfortable in front of the camera.”
How to Find the Right Photographer
- Preferred Vendor Lists: Elizabeth suggests starting with your venue’s preferred vendor list. These photographers are familiar with the venue and likely get along well with the staff, ensuring smoother coordination on your big day.
- Personal Recommendations: Asking friends and family for recommendations is another great strategy. Their firsthand experiences can provide valuable insights into what you can expect.
- Online Resources: Utilize wedding websites and blogs that feature real weddings at your chosen venue. This allows you to see examples of photographers’ work in a similar setting.
Key Questions to Ask Prospective Photographers
- Wedding Day Approach: Inquire about how they handle timelines and unexpected situations. A well-organized photographer ensures that your day runs smoothly.
- Insurance: Confirm that the photographer is insured. This is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring professionalism.
- Backup Procedures: Ask about how they back up your images. Elizabeth, for example, keeps multiple backups and doesn’t delete memory cards until the final product is delivered.
- Contract Details: Ensure that a comprehensive contract is in place. This should cover scenarios like cancellations and provide legal protection for both parties.
Editing Style and Longevity
Elizabeth advises couples to consider whether they will still love the photographer’s editing style in 20 years. Trends come and go, but timeless, natural editing ensures your photos remain cherished memories. Elizabeth’s style is natural and modern, focusing on preserving the day’s true colors and moments.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wedding photographer involves more than just admiring their portfolio. It’s about finding someone whose personality and style resonate with you, ensuring they are professional, insured, and well-organized. By asking the right questions and considering long-term satisfaction, you can confidently select a photographer who will beautifully capture your special day.
For more insights from Elizabeth Steed and to see her work, visit With Whimsy and Wilder. Thank you for joining us on The Wedding Reporter Podcast. Happy planning!
Show Notes
In this episode, Alyssa interviews Elizabeth Steed of With Whimsy & Wilder, a wedding and boudoir photographer, about how to choose the right photographer for your wedding. They discuss the importance of clicking with your photographer, the significance of personality and comfort, and the role of the photographer in capturing the essence of the couple and their wedding day. Elizabeth emphasizes the need for couples to love their photographer’s style and editing, as well as the importance of contracts and insurance. They also touch on the concept of timeless photography and the significance of choosing a photographer whose work will stand the test of time.
With Whimsy & Wilder Website: https://www.withwhimsyandwilder.com/
Follow With Whimsy & Wilder on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/with.whimsy.and.wilder/
See more on this episode here: https://www.nashvillebrideguide.com/how-to-choose-the-perfect-wedding-photographer-w-elizabeth-steed-of-with-whimsy-amp-wilder
Subscribe to our podcast HERE: https://redcircle.com/shows/76e6a514-5adb-4b83-859d-208d403f23a5
See more videos on our Youtube Page: https://www.youtube.com/@TheWeddingReporterPodcast/
Visit https://www.NashvilleBrideGuide.com for more information!
