Your wedding day is probably THE occasion you want to remember for the rest of your life. But over time you may not recall the finer details, so luckily photographs keep these treasured memories alive. From reminiscing years down the line to hanging pictures all over your home, a good photographer is worth every penny. But, booking wedding photographers requires doing your homework beforehand. After all, you only want the best capturing those precious moments of your big day!
For one thing, your wedding photographer needs to be a professional who understands what you want. Also, you should feel comfortable with this person following you throughout your special day. So, before booking a wedding photographer, read on as we talk about how and who to pick for photographing those special moments.
How to Pick the Best Wedding Photographer
Here are some handy tips for picking the perfect wedding photographer.
Decide on Your Photography Style
You and your partner should discuss beforehand what photography style you want your wedding memories to be captured in. Typical photography styles include:
- Classic: A traditional style that’s formal and simple with posed shots infused and modernised using the photographer’s personal artistic flair.
- Photojournalistic: The alternative to posed shots, this style captures sincere and spontaneous moments as they happen.
- Fine art: Similar to classic style but with more of a bright, colourful and airy feel.
- Lifestyle: A middle-ground between traditional poses and spontaneous shots, this style uses some direction while setting the scene for styled images.
- Dark and moody: A more filtered effect is done after the photographs have been taken to create pictures with dark hues and a deeper edge.
- Editorial: If you want photographs that look like they’ve come out of Vogue magazine, this is your style! It will focus on posing and lighting in more controlled settings.
Your Budget
Planning your wedding day budget should include how much you can spend on your photographs. By setting your budget ahead of time, you’ll be able to pick the best wedding photographer in your price range. When discussing fees with your photographer find out what’s included in the cost so you know what to expect.
Some questions you could ask the photographer are:
- Is an album part of the package and are the prints included?
- Is the fee a flat or hourly rate?
- How long will the photographer stay for the day?
- Does the photographer offer various packages at different prices?
Ask for Recommendations
One of the best ways to find the perfect wedding photographer is to ask around. Speak to recently married friends or, if you’re using a wedding planner, ask them to recommend someone they know. You could also ask the manager of the venue you’ve booked for suggestions.
If you’re buying your dress through a bridal boutique ask them if they have vendors they can recommend. Using someone who has been highly recommended by experts gives you peace of mind your special moments are in safe hands on the day!
Meet the Photographer
Ask to review the photographer’s portfolio before adding them to your list of potential shooters for your wedding pictures. This allows you to view their style and quality of work beforehand. Interview the photographer and ask them questions such as who’ll be taking the shots on the day. 
When meeting wedding photographers, decide if you feel comfortable with them and trust them at the same time. At times, you also need to go with your gut feeling when deciding if you like a photographer or not!
Wedding Photographers – Who to Pick
To make planning your wedding easier, Olivelli has compiled a list of wedding photographers. Browse the list to help you decide who to pick for all your photography requirements.
Daniel West Photographer
If you’re looking for “real, authentic and creative”, Daniel West Photographer is your answer. This photographer takes South African wedding photographs, capturing the authenticity and emotions of every poignant moment. You can review his highly acclaimed photographs on his website as well as a few accolades awarded to him.
Light2Lens Photography
A team of wedding photographers who have been capturing special moments for over 17 years, Light2Lens Photography is passionate about people and their dreams. You can review some examples of their wedding photographs on their website. They also have videographers on their team should you want to capture moments of your wedding day to watch in the future.
Stella Uys Photography
If lifestyle is the style you’re after, Stella Uys Photography will capture the uniqueness and raw emotions of the day. Expect images that are light and uplifting while displaying the love that rings true between you and your partner. Check out her website for examples of wedding photographs as well as testimonials from satisfied couples.
Dust and Dreams Photography
Wedding photographers, Steph and Elaine, will capture every special moment of your magical day while keeping the images organic and real. Dust and Dreams Photography has been taking wedding pictures for seven years and examples on their website show their skill. Testimonials reflect how comfortable and relaxed clients were working with this photography couple.
JC Click Wedding Photography
Starting in 2011, JC Click Photography takes styled shots to capture all your special moments. The team uses the latest photography trends and equipment to ensure every shot is memorable. Their website portfolio highlights the different styles used for both engagement and wedding shots.
Louis van Zyl Photography
specialises in a range of different fields including weddings. A fine artist who uses photography as a creative medium, Louis van Zyl emphasises the importance of creating a “positive photo-taking experience” when working with his clients.
African Bear Photography and Videography
A husband and wife team, African Bear Photography and Videography capture both the bride and groom’s special moments. This photography pair love wedding days and go out of their way to capture every poignant moment of your nuptials. Take a look at their website for reviews and photographs as examples.
Wynand van der Merwe Photography
If this photographer’s motto, “Real stories, Real Emotions. Told beautifully!” is anything to go by, expect your wedding to be documented from start to end using a documentary approach. Wynand van der Merwe Photography’s website includes a portfolio as well as a list of awards and achievements.
Final Thoughts
Knowing how and who to pick is key to getting the best photographer for capturing those memorable moments. When booking wedding photographers, use our tips to help you make the right choice for your magical day.
Along with the cake and the dress, this is probably one of the most important decisions you’ll make.