Selecting
the Right Wedding
Photographer
Great photographs are
timeless,
and hiring a great photographer to capture the moments of your wedding
day is a must. Finding a photographer that matches your
budget
and personal style can take a little effort, but it is worth it in the
end. Keep in mind that you will have these photos for years,
and
you want to look back on something amazing that captures the mood of
your wedding day and the spirit of the bride and groom. | |
| Finding
a Photographer
Listing sites such as
this one are a pretty good place to start looking. You can
also
use search engines, and other local resources. Most venues
have a
'preferred vendor' list which includes photographers who they have
worked with and recommend. When you find a photographer you
like,
make sure you talk to him or her, and get a feel for their personality.
Most are happy to set up a meeting and show your printed
photographs of their work.
| When
to Hire a Photographer
Good
photographers tend to get booked very quickly. Its always
best to
look
for a photographer as early as possible. A good rule of thumb is to go
after a photographer right after you decide on your venue. Usually
start looking
about one year or more in advance of the wedding, and try to book at
least 6-9
months in advance - even earlier if your getting married on a popular
date. |
Style
of Photography
Most
photographers have websites so you can browse their work, and see if it
matches your style. Make sure you look at a lot of different
photographers work so you can determine what you like - and more
importantly - what you dont like.
Photojournalistic
photography is getting more and more popular with today's brides.
However, its still very important to get standard, more
traditional shots for albums, family, and friends. Many photographers
offer a combination of both styles - they will photograph you
in a
photojournalistic manner, but also take traditional
style shots. But in the end, its a matter of personal taste - what do
you want your photos to look like?
Determining
the Best Value
Dont just compare
prices when comparing photographers - look at what you're getting for
the
money.
Are your finished prints included
in the
cost? Are
albums included? If so; how many, and what type? Can
your proofs be placed online? Can you get the copyrights to
your
digital images or negatives?
Look at the overall cost of your
package in
comparison to
what
your getting for it. While one photographer might be more
expensive, you may get more in return. | 
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Also,
keep in mind that most photographers can cater a package to meet your
specific needs. If you want to add a parent's album - or
remove
an hour of coverage - many will accomodate. Most
photographers are happy to work with you so you get exactly what you
want.
Finally,
remember that
your not just paying for the prints - your paying for the photographers
expertise and skill. Good photographers will cost more, but
it is
usually worth it if its in your budget.
Other
Factors
Keep
in mind that some
of the larger
photography studios have several photographers on staff. Make
sure that you talk to the person who will be shooting your wedding and
see his or her work. Get in writing who will be photographing
your
wedding.
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