Nailing Your Simcha Photos:Guide to Booking the Perfect Photographer

You’re planning a simcha. Mazel tov! Now it’s time to book the perfect photographer for your event. But where do you start? Here are some key points to consider before making that first call:

What’s Your Photo Style?

These pictures will help you remember your event for years to come, so you want to love looking at them. The photos should tell the story of your event. Do you prefer a photojournalistic style (capturing moments as they happen), classic (more posed), or edgy (fun angles and unconventional compositions)? What kind of editing do you like? Are you drawn to sepia and black-and-white, classic color, selective color, or high-tech color? Decide what appeals to you before choosing your photographer. Remember, these photos will outlast current trends (including hairstyles!).

Budget and Pricing:

Decide your budget upfront and clarify all costs. How much are extra hours, additional people, off-site location shoots, prints, albums, etc.? What about extra editing and special effects? Many photographers offer packages that include hours, staff, albums/prints, and editing (color correction, special effects, etc.). This provides a clear, all-inclusive price. Others offer a “pay-as-you-go” option where you pay for time and extras separately, which can be great if you don’t need many extras or are on a tighter budget.

Meet the Photographer:

If possible, meet the photographer in person. Look through their portfolio and ask to see examples from similar events. Make sure you like what you see and how the photos make you feel. Personality is key – you need to mesh well with your photographer. Ask if they will be the one shooting your event or if they’ll send someone else, and make sure this is specified in your contract.

Coverage and Shooters:

Consider the size of your event. Having a second shooter can be beneficial for large events, providing double the coverage and ensuring no moments are missed. Make sure to get the rate for additional shooters if needed.

Timing:

Be clear about your timing needs. Do you want someone who can work quickly and efficiently, or do you need extra time to get the perfect shots? Be upfront about your expectations. If you want things to be less rushed, consider booking a few extra hours before the start of your event.

Post-Event Considerations:

After your simcha, decide if you want albums, prints, or just digital files (or negatives, depending on the photographer’s medium). Make sure you understand the costs for each option, including print sizes, album styles (cover, page amount, album size, graphic design work), and any additional editing. Find out if the photographer retains the rights to the photos and if you can get a photo re-edited for special effects.

If you want the digital files for printing yourself, ensure they provide high-resolution files. Web-ready files are not suitable for large prints and are typically used for email, social media, or printing small proofs (usually 4x6). Printing larger sizes from web-ready files will result in pixilated (blurry) images.

Delivery Time:

Ask about the timeline for receiving your proofs or digital album. Each photographer has a different time frame, and based on what you want, they should provide an estimate. Understand that post-production can take time, often up to a month, as much work goes into editing as into shooting the event. Don’t be afraid to ask, but be patient – you want your pictures to be perfect.

Enjoy Your Event:

Finally, enjoy your event! Your happiness will shine through in the photos. So smile and have a great time!

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to choosing the perfect photographer for your simcha. Mazel tov again, and enjoy every moment!