How to Choose a Wedding Photographer in Minsk: Clear and to the Point

1. Decide on a Photography Style

Before choosing a photographer, look not just at their “top” shots on Instagram, but at full wedding galleries. This will show how they shoot in different settings: registry office, outdoor walk, and reception.

Pay attention to the style:

• Classic — bright, soft, and neat shots.
• Documentary — minimal staging, maximum genuine emotions.
• Art Photography — focus on artistry, unconventional angles, and editing.

Choose the style that resonates with you, not just “like my friend’s wedding.”

2. Experience and Specialization

A photographer should be skilled specifically in weddings. Shooting a wedding is not the same as a love story or a family session.

Check:

• How many weddings they have photographed.
• Whether they have experience at the locations you plan to use (registry office, restaurant, estate).
• How they handle different lighting conditions: cloudy days, harsh sunlight, or dim indoor lighting.
  

3. Price and Package Details

In Minsk, the standard price range is 600–1200 BYN for a full day. It’s important to understand what is included in this amount:

• Number of hours (6, 8, 10+).
• How many photos you will receive and in what format (editing, retouching, delivery time).
• Whether a photobook, prints, or expedited delivery is included.
• Any hidden fees (e.g., travel beyond the city limits or shooting past midnight).

A trustworthy photographer always clearly outlines what is included in each package.

4. Contract — Mandatory

Without a written contract, you are not protected. It should include:

• Date, time, and duration of the shoot.
• Total cost and advance payment.
• Delivery timelines for the material.
• Terms for cancellation, rescheduling, and force majeure.

Don’t hesitate to request a contract — it’s standard practice for professionals.

5. Reviews and Reputation

Look for genuine reviews on Google, forums (for example, forum.onliner.by), and social media.
Ask the photographer:

• Can we see client testimonials?
• Is it possible to contact any previous clients?

If the photographer is experienced and reliable, they won’t hide this information.

6. Personal Interaction — More Important Than It Seems

Even if you like the photos, it’s important how you feel communicating with the photographer. They will be with you all day, and if you feel uncomfortable, it can affect your experience.

It’s recommended to:

• Meet in person or have a Zoom call.
• Assess how they communicate: calmly, confidently, without pressure.
• Understand whether they listen to your wishes, not just impose their own ideas.

7. What to Do in Case of Force Majeure

Clarify in advance:

• What happens if the photographer cannot attend (illness, accident, etc.).
• Whether they have a backup or assistant.
• The conditions for cancellation and refund of the deposit.
• Whether the date can be rescheduled without losses if the wedding is postponed.

This will protect you from unpleasant surprises.

8. How to Tell a “Real” Photographer from a Workshop Portfolio

Some photographers build their portfolios on workshops and staged shoots. It may look beautiful, but it has nothing to do with a real wedding.

How to recognize:

• Ask for full series, not just the top shots.
• Look for genuine moments: guests, registry office, banquet, emotions.
• Check locations: if it’s all estates and perfect decor — that’s not real life.
• Ask how many real weddings they’ve photographed.
• Repeated shots are a sign that photos come from a single staged session.