Why Choose a Professional Wedding Photographer
It has often been said that "A picture is worth a
thousand words" and what better day to capture those words but on your wedding day,
the most important day of your life. Remember, after the day is over, all you have left
are your memories. Great photographs preserve those precious memories forever. If you're
trying to keep the costs of your wedding down, don't try to save in this area -- choose
chicken instead of prime rib if you must but hire a professional photographer who you can
work with. The money you spend will be well worth it.
With the
downturn in the economy, many couples try to save in this area, thinking that guests with
their digital cameras and cell phones can capture the memories. But beware, the results
are often disastrous. For example, traditional group shots are a vital part of your album.
Posing the people, ensuring proper lighting and making sure everyone is smiling is a job
best left to a professional. Many times, amateurs forget to take these pictures. Or, if
they do, the photos lack design, the people look bored or worse yet, significant members
of the wedding party are missing. A professional photographer is contracted by you. As
such, he/she will take all the shots you have requested. In contrast, a friend may get
absorbed in the moment and forget important events such as the cake cutting.
When selecting your photographer and comparing the
various prices quoted, remember the old adage "You always get what you pay for".
This is certainly true in most circumstances. In these times of economic restraints, one
must be extremely careful in not always selecting the lowest quote, without taking that
extra care in checking out the photographer's work, and methods of achieving the end
result. Ask for references, call these customers and ask them their opinions on the
service. This will help you in selecting the photographer you feel will give you the
results you want.
Professional photographers capture the emotion and
excitement of the bride and groom, feelings that will be shared with family and friends
for years to come. A good professional photographer will meet with the bride and groom
before the Big Day in order to determine not only the locations and times of the events of
your Wedding Day, but travel times to the different locations. What pictures are required,
how to pose the individuals, and how long it will take to create the photographs at each
location. During this meeting, be sure to establish a good understanding of what to expect
during the photo session this is an important step in allowing you to relax and be your
natural best on the Big Day, which will inevitably result in much better wedding
photographs.
Flexibility is an important aspect of photography. A
professional photographer should be prepared to accommodate your wishes, but be in a
position to offer sound advice if these wishes may not result in the photographs you will
expect. Good equipment also adds to the quality of the end product. All professional
photographers use equipment that is in perfect working order, but always carry backup
cameras, as no matter how well a piece of equipment is maintained, there is always that
possibility of an unexpected
When discussing the pricing structure, make sure you are
advised of exactly what is included in the price. Get a price for the mothers' books and
maybe one or more books for the bridesmaids.
Formal pre-wedding photographs (if you plan to publish
the notices in your local newspaper) include engagement portraits and the formal wedding
portraits. Both should be taken a few weeks before the event date and submitted to the
newspaper at least one week before the date of publication.
Photography Styles:
There are three styles of photography:
- Traditional style is basically the old-school posed group
and couple shots.
- Candid shots are photojournalistic in nature, covering
things as they happen in a natural way.
- Fashion or contemporary photography is very posed,
magazine-like and glamorous.
Knowing which style you like best is the key to being
happy with your photos. While most photographers
usually shoot a combination of all three styles, many photographers have a particular
style. It is important that your preferences be voiced in the interview stage so that you
can both choose the photographer that's right for you and ensure you get the style of
photographs you want. Regardless of your style, the importance of traditional portraiture
should never be overlooked.
These are the photos that will form the backbone of your
album. Remember also to include portraiture in your wedding album. When you consider the
preparation to look your most beautiful and also the cost (your gown, accessories, makeup, hair,
jewelry, flowers etc),
it makes sense to capture this effort and expense with wedding portraits. |
