There are plenty of things you can do to work cooperatively with your wedding photographer, before and during your big day, to help them create amazing photos for you.

But did you know that, without meaning to, you could accidentally play a role in getting less-than-desirable photos or photography experiences?

The good news is that avoiding these missteps is not difficult at all, and it begins with being aware of them.

Here are some of the most common mistakes couples make with their wedding photographers.

Not budgeting for an experienced professional

It’s not unusual for couples, to experience a bit of sticker shock when they start researching the price of quality wedding photography, which averages from $2,500 to $4,000 and can run as high as $10,000. It’s understandable to want to reign in your wedding costs, especially since photography is only one of many wedding expenses. But, this is not an area where you should bargain hunt. If you can afford it, quality wedding photography is worth the investment.

Your photos will be one of the only tangible ways you’ll be able to hold on to—and share—your favorite wedding moments. Not only will your photos mean the world to you, but they’ll also be important to your loved ones, including generations yet to be born. Consider this carefully before looking for cheap service providers.

Waiting until the last minute to book someone

Couples have been known to line up good photographers a year or two in advance. If you wait until your wedding is only a few months away—even if you’ve budgeted for a quality photographer—your options may be limited.

Meeting their photographer for the first time on your wedding day

Photographers typically encourage couples to meet with them before their wedding, if at all possible. Getting to know your photographer a bit will help you be more at ease during photo shoots—and to get better pictures.

“When there's a friend on the other side of the camera, that's when you capture some of the most authentic moments,” Heather Bien wrote for WeddingWire. “So, set up a date or two with your photographer to not only discuss the wedding shoot and the workflow of the day, but to get to know each other as people.”

Not blocking off enough time for photos

Remember this general rule, your formal photo shoot on your wedding day will take longer than you expect. It helps to work time buffers into your timeline so everyone remains relaxed, and you end up with beautiful photos. Generally, plan to allow 90 minutes for photos of the bride and groom and wedding party, and add a half-hour for family photos. If you’re planning to capture the “magic hour” before sunset, coordinate carefully with your photographer.

Allowing your guests to take photos or videos during the ceremony

A well-meaning guest who wants to capture a moment for you, or themselves, could make it more difficult for your paid professional to get the shots you want. You might want to ask your emcee or a trusted guest to ask guests not to take photos before the wedding begins. You can always provide them the option of using a photo booth to capture a few memories of their own

Failing to communicate with the photographer

Provide a wedding itinerary for your photographer and talk about your vision and priorities so you can work together to develop a photography timeline.

Encourage your photographer to provide feedback. Maybe there will be certain shots the photographer can get during the golden hour, right after sunrise and just before sunset, when the sun provides a lovely (and flattering) glow.

David Baker Studios encourages couples to notify their photographer of any sensitive family situations, such as recent deaths or divorces, that they should keep in mind when arranging photos.

We also encourage you to tell your photographer in advance if you’d just as soon avoid photos from certain angles or in certain situations.

Failing to communicate with their venue

This applies to all vendors, really, but it’s in your best interests to give your photographer and your venue one another’s contact information so they’ll be on the same page about bringing in equipment, venue contact people, and last-minute developments. Along the same lines, ask your venue if they have any policies, or off-limit areas, your photographer should be aware of so your wedding day goes seamlessly.

Only Hiring One Shooter

Many couples try to save money by only hiring one wedding photographer instead of a team. However, having a single shooter can limit the number and variety of photos you end up with.

It's impossible for one person to be everywhere at once. With a team, one photographer can capture the bride getting ready while another shoots the groom and groomsmen. Or one can take formal portraits while another gets candid shots of guests mingling. Having a second shooter means you'll end up with more complete coverage of your whole wedding day.

Trying to Control the Photo Shoot

It's understandable to have a vision of what you want your wedding photos to look like. However, leave the details and logistics of executing that vision up to the professionals.

Micromanaging your wedding photographer's every move will just slow them down and get in the way of them doing their best work. Trust their expertise in lighting, angles, posing, and timing. Focus on enjoying your wedding day instead of obsessing over the photography.

The Bell Tower on 34th is a stylish wedding venue with architecture inspired by historic Italian villas. We are based in the Greater Houston area, near Magnolia, TX.

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