Destination weddings have become increasingly popular, especially among couples seeking an extraordinary and memorable experience against a stunning backdrop. However, when planning your wedding remotely, finding the right vendors to suit your requirements can be challenging. When it comes to photography, it’s essential to choose a photographer who understands your vision, style, and personality and is experienced with documenting destination weddings. This is because they acknowledge the challenges of shooting in locations abroad and the logistics involved. Read on to learn more about how to find the best destination wedding photographer for your big day!

Look at the photographer’s style

The first thing to do is identify your preferred wedding aesthetic and match this to the right photography style. Wedding photography styles can vary greatly, ranging from bright and airy to dark and edgy and just about everything in between. Each photography style will lend itself better to suit a specific wedding aesthetic. So, if you plan on having a rustic wedding at an Italian vineyard, you might opt for a darker or moodier style. Alternatively, if you are having a sunny beach wedding in Spain, you might want to go for a photographer with a bright and colourful style. And, for a romantic wedding at a French Chateau, you may find that a light and airy style offers the dreamy look you are searching for. So, when choosing a destination wedding photographer, it’s essential to review their portfolio to ensure their style matches your vision. Be sure also to ask to see full galleries of their previous weddings. This will give you a better idea of how consistent their style is throughout the entire wedding day and the overall quality of their photography.

Consider their personality

Choosing a photographer you like and get on with is essential, as they are one of the only wedding vendors that will be with you throughout the full wedding day. You want to find someone with whom you can communicate effectively and who will work collaboratively with your other chosen wedding vendors (planner, florist, makeup artist, etc.). The most significant factor that determines how well you photograph is how at ease you feel being in front of the camera. It’s your wedding photographer’s responsibility to make sure you feel comfortable. They should have a likable personality and be someone you enjoy being around. So make sure you meet them, even if it’s only by video chat, before you book.

Decide whether to fly a photographer in for your wedding or hire a local photographer

You will need to consider the location of your preferred photographer in relation to your destination wedding venue and determine whether you want to book a local photographer or whether you’d like to fly someone in from the UK. The advantage of hiring a local photographer is that they are familiar with the area and may know some hidden photography locations for portraits. However, a large part of the photographer’s job on the day is guiding you through the process to get the best out of you and to make sure you are posed in the most flattering way, so if there is a language barrier, it may prove problematic. To avoid this, I recommend you find someone who can speak English and meet with them before the wedding day for a meeting or engagement shoot to be assured that they can get the best out of you. Alternatively, there are photographers in the UK who specialise in capturing destination weddings abroad who you can fly out to shoot your big day, and they will usually research the venue and area to ensure they are getting the best shots possible. The advantage of flying a photographer into your destination is that it removes the communication barrier. It may also prove easier to arrange products such as a wedding album or wall art once you return home to the UK. If you do decide to book a destination wedding photographer from the UK, just make sure you know all the costs upfront, as there will likely be some added charges for travel.

What experience do they have?

When hiring a wedding photographer, it’s important to find someone who is not only experienced but can handle unexpected situations with calm and competence. So, make sure you ask about their years of experience and how many weddings they have captured as the primary photographer. It’s also important to check for Google reviews and, if possible, ask if you can speak directly to some of their previous clients to ask for their experiences. Additionally, make sure their business is legally sound and fully insured, as many venues require proof of public liability insurance from your wedding suppliers. And remember to ask about their technical ability to ensure you’re getting someone with the right skills for your needs. Taking the time to do your due diligence will ensure you have the best photographer for your special day.

How much does a destination wedding photographer cost?

When it comes to destination wedding photography pricing, you will find that it can range significantly from one business to another. Photographers usually base their costs on their level of expertise, artistry, and what services are offered. Additionally, the number of photographers included in your quote, the location of your wedding, the types of photography packages offered, the final product received, and the size of your guest list will all have an impact on the cost. Remember to also keep in mind that destination weddings typically incur additional costs for travel and expenses.

Where to look for a destination wedding photographer?

Finding the perfect photographer for your destination wedding can seem like a daunting task. However, there are a few steps you can take to make the search easier. Instagram is an excellent resource for this, as you can browse through hashtags like #destinationweddingphotographer and #destinationphotography to discover photographers that cover your desired location. You can also search through Google & Pinterest using the keyword ‘wedding photographer in’ followed by the location of your wedding. Usually, the more specific you are, the better the search results will be, so be sure to try some different keyword combinations, including searching for photography at your wedding venue. Alternatively, you can ask your venue or wedding planner (if you have one) for recommendations directly. They may have worked with photographers in the past and can offer some great suggestions. Once you have a list of potential photographers, look at their websites and browse through their galleries. This will give you a feel for their style and whether it resonates with you. Then, reach out to them and set up a video meeting or phone call to get to know them better.

In Summary

As you can see from this article, choosing the perfect destination wedding photographer is a decision that requires careful consideration. Your photographer has a unique responsibility- to capture the precious memories of your big day – from the first kiss to the first dance – providing you with a visual reference of your wedding that you can cherish for years to come. As you embark on your search, consider style, personality, experience, location, and pricing. And, don’t forget to ask for references or client testimonies to gain a clearer understanding of their level of service. If you’re unsure about hiring a local photographer or flying one in from another location, weigh out the pros and cons and choose what feels right for you. All the best of luck with your search and have the best day ever!