Is beach wedding photography different from other types of wedding photography?
All wedding photographers are not created equal. A quality professional photographer is one of the most important elements that go into planning the perfect wedding. But how do you know which one to hire? There are many excellent wedding photographers to choose from. Does it matter then, which one you choose? Let me ask you this. If you needed surgery would you go to the top rated heart surgeon to have brain surgery? I think not. Just because someone is an expert in within a general category, does not mean they are an expert within a specific segment of that category. This can be applied to wedding photography. Dont get burned by hiring a photographer who is an expert, but their expertise is within a specific segment that does not match your situation. If you have been dreaming of the perfect beach wedding, then choose a photographer who specializes in beach wedding photography.
The images taken for your special day will become a permanent record of a singular moment in time, capturing the before, during, and after events that unfold in an unpredictable instant. There are no, Do-overs. Don't trust this important job to just anyone with a camera and a good price. Ask to see his or her portfolio, as well as recommendations from previous clients. Most of all, specifically ask for how much experience they have with photographing weddings that are held in a beach setting. Make a list of specific questions to ask and interview several wedding photographers before signing any contracts.
Some important questions to ask a potential photographer are:
When did you get into the wedding photography business?
On the day of the wedding, will an assistant be working with you?
Will one of your associates be taking photographs as well?
What do you do if it rains, or the weather is otherwise poor?
What style do you prefer to shoot? (Formal, traditional, photojournalistic, etc.)
What traditional wedding poses do you take, if any?
How can we make the best out of the beach setting in terms of the photographs?
Why should I hire you rather than your competition? Or, what separates you from your competition?
What is your favorite beach shot and why is it your favorite?
Why did you move away from traditional wedding photography to specialize in beach wedding photography?
A beach wedding is your choice. Take a moment to consider why this is. Is it because you imagine you and your fiance in your dress and tuxedo, walking by the waters edge, silhouetted against a beautiful sunset? Is a sun-drenched mid-day or even morning scene with all of the beautiful scenery around you what you imagine? Are you dreaming of a comfortable indoor reception, with only the ceremony being held at the beach? Whatever your vision is, communicate them to your photographer so that you can achieve the best possible results. Working well together and communicating with your photographer is arguably the most important aspect for a successful photographic record of your special day.