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The most important thing to do when reaching out to wedding photographers is to be up-front about your budget. Many photographers post packages with set prices on their website, while some prefer to give you a custom quote. Usually, they'll tweak a package to suit your needs and your budget. But if the price is fixed, try negotiating: Choose a less expensive package and ask to have extras thrown in, like an engagement shoot or a canvas print. You can also send your shooter home early to save (smart-phone pics can cover the rest of the reception) or wait on albums and prints (e.g., buy them after the wedding when your bank account has recovered, or use a service to print independently). One thing to remember is that even if the pro you want is expensive, it may be worth the cost: Flowers wilt, but photos last.
Still trying to stretch your budget to get that dream photographer? Try these four ways to save a few extra dollars.
Go off-peak.
Photographers have to work Saturdays during high season (May to October) to maintain their income. But a Friday or a Sunday? That's gravy for most, so you can often score a deal.
Boost her reputation.
Reviews are the main way wedding photographers attract new clients. Promise to talk her up on bridal listing sites in exchange for a discount.
Refer a friend.
There's a lag between when you book and when you pay the full fee. See if she'll shrink the bill if you hook her up with referrals in the interim.
Try a newbie.
Book a recent photography graduate or someone new to weddings if you have a tight budget and are willing to take a chance on an unknown. She should run you about $1,000, but expect to do a bit of hand-holding.
