Your Gloucestershire and Wiltshire Wedding- April/May 2021 (Issue 26)

HOT TOPIC PICTURE-PERFECT We’ve just become engaged – how do we go about finding a good photographer? Meet the expert: Emily Collett is a wedding photographer based in Wiltshire covering weddings throughout the Cotswolds. She’s a champion for introverts, vowing to make everyone feel relaxed and reassured in front of the lens, even the most camera-shy! Emily says: Firstly, it’s important to decide on the style of wedding photography that you want, for example, do you require your images to be light and airy, warm and colourful or dark and moody? Alongside the photographer’s style, it’s important to research how they capture the day. For example, if you’re looking for relaxed, candid and natural shots, images of the finer details or more of a formal feel then check how they document a full day and ask to see full albums of their work, not just a selection of images. For me, a connection is everything. I say this because you wouldn’t invite a stranger to your wedding so the same applies to your wedding photographer. As you’ll be spending much of your day in the presence of your photographer, you want them to be somebody who you can relax in front of, as you would your loved ones. To see if you’re a good fit, ask whether they offer a meeting via Facetime or Zoom, or a phone chat, just so that you can see if your personalities align. Booking an engagement shoot, if your chosen photographer provides this service, is a great opportunity to relax in front of the camera before your wedding day. It’s also a great way to get to know your photographer and of course, leave with some memorable couple portraits! Check whether the photographer’s prices are within your budget. Photography is an expensive part of a wedding but it’s an investment, and the photographs will be enjoyed for years to come so try not to compromise on this. It’s also important to remember that you aren’t paying for them simply to attend on the day. They’re available for advice, guidance and support beforehand plus there are hours of editing the images after the wedding. I would always recommend investing in a second shooter if your budget allows it. Your photographer can’t be in two places at once so the second shooter will snap the groom’s preparation, guests arriving, additional angles, extra candid shots, those all-important details and much more, making sure that everything’s covered. They also offer invaluable assistance in wet weather, and peace of mind in the event of your photographer falling ill on the day. Finally, if your preferred photographer isn’t available, don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations. They’re likely to know other reliable, friendly, similarly priced photographers and point you in the right direction. Emily Collett Photography | www.emilycollettphotography.com www.facebook.com/emilycollettphotography www.instagram.com/emilycollettphotography Our experts answer your questions EXPERT ADVICE 45