You're engaged! Here is some guidance for you!
Since the moment you said "yes", I bet your messages are being flooded, and you're doing all the searches on Pinterest! It is so overwhelming to be starting anything out, let alone planning your wedding! Just remember that you don't eat the elephant all at once, you take it one bite at a time. If you already feel behind, or like you're lost in all the advice, and things you "should" be doing (I say this with air quotes because you can really do anything you want), just know, you're in the drivers seat. Okay, now that we got that out of the way, I'm sure you feel like a wave of emotions have lifted off your shoulder. So grab a notebook and your favorite pen and let's get to on your way to feel equipped with some tangible next steps!
So it's engagement season, and there are a ton of couples who will be planning their first wedding this year. What are a few things to do first before picking a photographer?
1. Set a date. This is pretty obvious I know, but this is one the most important things you need to do. I recommend doing this before you go and search for photographers, UNLESS, you already know who you're going to hire. It's not completely unheard of to hire your photographer and then set your wedding date. I just caution you to have this discussion with the photographer you wish to hire to ensure you understand what they do in this situation, if there will be a re-booking fee if you pick a date, and then re-book with them on a different date, etc.
2. Find your venue. Securing your wedding venue(s) will give you and your future photographer an idea of the proximity of the wedding, as well as an idea if they need to account for travel time for your photo coverage, and if your photographer will be traveling a long distance to your wedding or not.
3. Sit down with your honey and determine what your priorities are for your wedding. What’s most important to you and your partner on your wedding day? Is it spending quality time with family and friends? Or capturing intimate moments and all the tiny details? Sit down together and list the top 5 words that describe the vibe of your wedding (think: “romantic,” “adventurous,” “minimalist”). These words will be a helpful guide when booking vendors, particularly your photographer, ensuring they align with your vision.
4. Outline your budget. Outline your overall budget and individual budget for each vendor you plan on hiring. Depending on your location, your overall budget may vary from state to state. If let's say your wedding photos and video are a priority for you, you may wish to consider having a healthier budget to ensure you are blown out of the water by your wedding team. You'll want to set an overall budget, and budgets for each vendors you wish to hire. If you don't know who all you're going to hire yet that's okay! Once you’ve mapped out your priorities, it’s time to talk numbers. Photographers often have various packages, so if photography is a top priority, allocate a significant portion of your budget here. You’ll also want to consider videography if capturing the day in motion matters to you—photos and video truly complement one another and bring memories to life for years to come.
In my home state of Nebraska, wedding photography and videography packages vary significantly based on the level of service and experience, but for couples prioritizing high-end photography and video, here’s a helpful breakdown:
- Photography Only: A high-end wedding photographer in Nebraska typically charges $4,000 or more for full-day coverage. This often includes a set number of edited images, an engagement session, and additional services like a second shooter or an album. For couples seeking exceptional quality, prices can go beyond this range, especially for photographers with a renowned reputation or unique artistic styles.
- Photography + Videography Packages: If you're looking for both photography and videography, expect to budget between $6,000 to $8,000 depending on your teams experience, and other features that they offer (i.e. drone, heirloom albums, communication, turnaround time etc.)
As this is likely the first time you've ever made large purchases this frequently, I highly recommend as you're saving up for your wedding to start using a High Yield Savings account. If you don't know what this is, it is much better than a regular savings account where you only accure $0.01 each month in interest. Often times, with HYSA's rates can be anywhere between 3-5%. If you don't already have one, I would recommend checking out Ally Bank. They offer great organizational tools inside the account like saving buckets and savings boosters, so you can see what all you're saving up for and set a goal to reach them by! You can check them out with my referral link and you'll get $100 just by opening an account with them.Here's the link to get set up today with Ally Bank! Ally Bank is the bank that I personally use, and I also recommend looking into other banks like SoFi. I share this as I wish I would have known about this years ago (like when I was newly engaged). **Please keep in mind this is an affiliate link, and I am not a financial expert and this is not financial advice.
5. Brainstorm your wedding day vibe/theme for your wedding. This is probably one of the most fun and exciting pieces to wedding planning where you can envision your dream wedding! Whether it's classic, colorful, spring, boho, western, boho-western, modern. Seriously the list goes on and on. Get on Pinterest and start dreaming!
6. Determine the editing style you're most attracted to. This is where photographers vary a lot, and it's important to find a photographer that is consistent. A well established photographer will have a consistent style. Many styles often are:
- Light and Airy: Soft, romantic, and ethereal
- Bold and True to Color: Vibrant, lively colors, true to life
- Moody: Darker tones, rich contrasts for a cinematic feel
- Filmy or Vintage: Timeless, nostalgic looks with grain and texture
It's so important for you to pick a photographer based on the work they display because if there is something you're not a fan of, it's likely you'll be unhappy with the final product.
7. Research Photographer Posing Styles & Types of Photos. When choosing a photographer, it's essential to understand their posing style and the type of photos they specialize in. This can significantly affect how your wedding day is captured, as well as how comfortable you and your guests feel in front of the camera. Here are a few common styles to consider:
- Posed: These are the traditional, directed shots where the photographer gives instructions on how to stand, smile, or interact. Posed photos are great for formal portraits and ensuring everyone looks their best.
- Unposed: Also known as "lifestyle" shots, unposed photography captures natural, relaxed moments without much direction. It feels more like storytelling and can add an authentic touch to your wedding album.
- Documentary: This style is all about capturing the day as it unfolds, with little to no interference from the photographer. These images are typically candid, capturing real emotions and moments in a photojournalistic approach.
- Candid: Candid photography focuses on unplanned, in-the-moment shots. It’s about capturing spontaneous moments—like a tearful hug, laughter during the reception, or a heartfelt glance between you and your partner.
When researching photographers, review their portfolios to see which style resonates with you. You might even find a blend of styles that speaks to you. The key is finding a photographer who excels in the style you love and makes you feel comfortable, ensuring that the moments they capture align with your vision for your wedding day. Consider pulling together a mood board of favorite photos, colors, and moments. This can help your photographer better understand your vision and expectations, ensuring they capture your day exactly how you’ve imagined it.
Planning a wedding is all about balance. It's okay to lean on your team of vendors for support, but at the end of the day, this is your day. Enjoy the journey and don't sweat the small stuff—you're in the hands of professionals who care as much about your day as you do.
Feeling excited yet? 🥂 I’m here to help make the journey as smooth as possible. Follow along for more tips on how to plan the perfect wedding or reach out if you're looking for someone to help capture every little moment of your day!
Reach out through the inquiry link below!
