How to Choose A Wedding Photographer for Your Virginia Wedding

Understanding wedding photography can be a challenge when you've never planned a wedding before! There are so many phrases and buzzwords photographers use. Let's answer all your questions!

About the Photography

What is a wedding photographer? How are they different from other photographers?

A wedding photographer specializes in capturing weddings, thriving in fast-paced environments with strict schedules. They use specific equipment to effectively photograph, curate, and protect wedding images, distinguishing them from other portrait photographers. Wedding photogs are a different kind of photographer because they adapt to anything and often end keep your wedding day running by helping with random tasks and orchestrating key moments!

How do I know what photography style I like?

What are the different styles of taking photos?

What are the different styles of editing photos?

What is candid vs. posed photography?

About the Photography Packages

Why is wedding photography so expensive?

This is a totally valid question, and we want to give you a straightforward answer. Wedding photography can be expensive for a number of reasons. One of the main factors is the level of time and work that go into each wedding. The average wedding photographer spends anywhere from 40-60 hours working on a single wedding between communication with the couple, preparing for the wedding, shooting, editing, and delivering a gallery and any other inclusions. While that sounds like a typical workweek, all of this is taking place while other weddings and projects are also happening. Many photographers book every weekend and sometimes have back-to-back weddings in one weekend! Woah!

Another reason is the level of pressure that comes with weddings. Photographers take on a lot of stress during a wedding day, often doing more than "just" taking photos. Many photographers end up assisting in keeping things on schedule, helping with wedding mishaps or problems, and sometimes don't get to take a break for most of the day. We've pinned on boutonniere's, zipped up wedding dresses, transported rings to the venue, skipped lunch, held off on bathroom breaks, dealt with upset guests and families, and much more!

Some other key factors include level of experience, the costs of maintaining reliable equipment, and the type of experience being provided to couples.

The wonderful news is that there are photographers at every price point. No matter your budget, you'll be able to find a photographer who fits in your price range! We'll talk more below about finding the right photographer.

What is a "second shooter" and what's the point?

What are "printing rights."

What is wedding photography contract?

Why do some photographers offer a "complimentary engagement session?"

How do I decide how much wedding coverage I need?

What are "RAWs" and can I ask for them?

What is a shot list?

What is "turnaround time?"

What is a "retainer?"

About the Photographer

How do I know if a photographer is good?

The simple answer is that a photographer is good if you like their work, who they are, and what they do! It's important to remember that you're getting not just photos, but the person who takes the photos. This person will be with you throughout your whole wedding day, so we think it's important to love them just as much as you love their work!

Here's a more technical answer on how to spot a good photographer.

• They have a variety of work to display and it's all consistent looking

• They have positive reviews from past clients or other wedding vendors

• They use quality gear (cameras and lenses) and processes (invoicing system, editing software) to make sure their work is professional

• They have a great attitude and are clear in their communication and information

How do I pick the right photographer?

How do I find a photographer?

What should I think about when looking for a photographer?

Looking for your perfect photographer? Why not start here!

Rachel Dodson Photography is a husband-and-wife wedding photography team based in Harrisonburg, Virginia, serving the Shenandoah Valley and surrounding areas. They specialize in capturing your wedding day with a perfect blend of candid and traditional photography styles with an emphasis on timeless, classic imagery that will look beautiful forever.