Start with the Web
You can learn much about a Detroit photographer through his or her website. Most websites will include a wedding portfolio so you can actually view wedding photos they have captured at other weddings in the past. This will give you an idea of their creativity and whether they pay attention to details when photographing a wedding.
The website might also list packages and pricing so you can easily compare with your budget. To find Detroit, Michigan photographers in or near your area, go to any search engine and type in keywords such as "Michigan wedding photographer" or "Michigan event photography."
Schedule an Interview with the Wedding Photographer
Never rely completely on a wedding photographer's website, but schedule a live interview with the one you feel can do the job. The reason you'll want a live interview is so you can get a feel for the photographer's personality. If you feel comfortable with the photographer during the interview, then it's more likely that you'll feel comfortable with them at the wedding.
You can also observe their mannerisms and how they present their work and pricing. Observe what they're wearing during the interview and their level of professionalism. Also, ask what they will wear during your wedding shoot. A photographer can take the best photos in the world, but with the wrong attitude or rude mannerisms, can make your wedding photo session miserable.
Check Out the Quality of Work
Wedding photos are meant to last a lifetime. Be sure the photographer uses top quality methods of shooting and processing the photos. The type of film, processing methods, and type of camera used all affect the quality of your photos. Ask to see real photo examples of their work, and for an explanation of the development process. Luckily with digital cameras today, the photographer can know immediately if the photos are coming out right. This eliminates a lot of guesswork during the wedding.
Price, Packages, and Delivery
The old saying, "You get what you pay for" holds true in wedding photography. Don't be lured by low prices if you don't feel comfortable with the photographer's quality of work or personality. Choose the better quality even if it means going over your budget a little. Think of wedding photos as a long-term investment that will be well worth the money spent 20, 30, even 50 years down the road.
Be sure you understand exactly what you're getting in a wedding photo package. This is important because some photographers make their packages seem big when they are really only giving lots of duplicates. Ask how many original photos you will get and what sizes they will be. Also, ask about the timeframe and method of delivery you can expect for your wedding photos.
Consider required deposits and payment methods as well as the cancellation or refund policies of each photographer. Read your contract thoroughly before signing!
Ask for References
References can tell much about a wedding photographer. Ask others about the photographer's attitude, dress, methods of taking the photos, and so forth. Also, ask if they were satisfied with their final prints.
Before visiting a wedding photographer, make a list of interview questions for each of the areas above so you won't miss anything. This will equip you to choose the Detroit wedding photographer that's right for you.
