"I'm looking for a photographer. How much are your packages?"

I really don't know the best way to answer this question.

Everyone needs to stay within a budget. I understand that. But it really troubles me whenever this is the first question I hear from a bride or groom when I get a phone call.

PLEASE don't choose your wedding photographer strictly on price!

Before even meeting the photographer or seeing sample photographs, by leading with this question, it says that price is the most important aspect in choosing your photographer. Would it guarantee your business if the answer was, "My packages range from $100 to $250 for the entire day?" Or, would it guarantee lost business if the answer was, "My packages range from $5000 to $25,000?"

What if the answer was, "My price is $1500." How do you know if this includes everything you need or want? Can you judge quality and quantity of services based solely on a number without knowing what differentiates this photographer from another? Is experience worth something? Often the most experienced photographers may charge a little more than someone just entering the business. Is that worth something?

There is more to hiring a photographer than just price.

I think it is best to start by meeting the photographer. Regardless of how good his/her photographs are, if you can't stand his/her personality, you might as well pass on this person. Why? Because the photographer is often the person you'll spend most of your time with during your wedding day. The photographer will be with you before the ceremony and often to the very end of your wedding reception. Why be stuck with someone who you can't stand on the most important day of your life?

On the other hand, even if the photographer was the nicest person you've ever met, if his/her photographs just look awful, why hire him/her?

So the best way really to make this judgement call is to simply call to schedule an appointment with the photographer to evaluate both his/her personality and photographic style. If these fit what you are looking for, then ask for the package prices. Often you will find that many photographers have a range of packages to choose from and perhaps something can even be tailored specifically for your needs at a price you can afford.

So take my advice and do yourself a favor and schedule a meeting first before deciding if a photographer is right for you solely on price. You might just find the right photographer this way at a price you will like!