Everyone has a digital camera and, if to save
money on your photography, you use a well intentioned amateur, chances
are you are likely to be disappointed.
There is a world of difference between an amateur and a professional: the professional has experience, creativity and the best equipment. He, or she, knows instinctively what makes the perfect shot and they have the skill and speed to capture the moment before it passes - forever! The big question is how do you find the right person to trust with these precious memories?
- Start making enquiries as soon as possible, the best are snapped up well in advance so better to change your wedding date in order to get him or her!
-
Look at the images in the photographers advertising and on their website. These will give you an idea of what styles and approaches he uses.
-
When you have found one whose work attracts you, pick up the phone and speak to him. If its a large company and they can't tell you who will be taking your photographs on the day, move on. Its important, right from the start, that you build a relationship with your photographer.
-
Meet with at least three photographers and ask to view at least two complete albums and not just their best shots. Every wedding is different and this should be reflected in each album and not be repeats of the same pictures and poses.
-
A good photographer will be asking you questions not just about your wedding venue(s): where the wedding will be, the date and time, the number of guests, etc., but he will also be asking questions about you and the style of your wedding. Your answers will give him an idea of your overall expectations.
-
Ask yourself, do I like this person? Does he, or she, make me feel comfortable? Do they exhibit the confidence to be able to control your guests on the day and get the job done quickly and efficiently? Does he have a sense of humour? Will he be too bossy? A defining question is, would we invite this person as a guest to our wedding? If not, don't ask him to be your photographer!
-
If you like what you see, ask what is included in the package as this can vary enormously. Tell him beforehand about any additional requirements, for example a framed engagement photograph, a Wedding Book or, a Parents Album - you may be able to negotiate a keener price.
- Otherwise, generally, the package will include the cost of a meetings before the wedding, including at your wedding venue; on- the-day costs; the proofs and a certain number of re-prints.
- Also ask if any travel expenses are included? How long would be set aside for the formal photographs? (An hour is more than enough time.) How many photographers will be present on the day? Will he attend at the brides home? Will he stay for the first dance at the reception?
- How many pictures will he take? Do you receive all the proofs or just a selection? Will they be available to view on-line? How many prints are included in the album? Is the cost of the album included? How much are the re-prints? How soon after the wedding before you receive the photographs?
- Will he sell you the copyright? If so, how much? Does the quote include VAT? Does he have a wet weather contingency plan and a plan should he be unable to attend or his camera fails?
-
Only pay a deposit when all the details are agreed in writing.
 As distinct from formal or traditional photography, that is the posed shots, reportage or documentary photography has a candid or natural style. Reportage photography may look effortless but in fact it requires a lot more spontaneity and creativity which only comes with experience and should not, therefore, be considered a cheaper option.
For your album, the best advice is to have a mixture of formal and reportage, plus a mixture of black and white and colour photographs. Brown sepia effect is very romantic and perfect if your wedding theme is based on a bygone era.
It is a book that tells your story and includes text and usually more than one picture per page. It can include copies of your wedding stationery, invitations, menus, your honeymoon photos, in fact whatever you wish to include. Maybe you would like a section where your guests can write messages.
- Ask your photographer if he can do a pre-wedding shoot so you and he can decide on the best angles for close-up shots
- Give your photographer a schedule of the big days events, particularly any surprises planned. Also, provide him with a written list of "must take" shots and the names of the people you want included on groups. (You could decide that the smaller group shots be taken at the reception after everyone has had chance to relax and freshen up, especially if they have travelled some distances. Avoid having too many in a group; the more people the smaller they will appear which may make for a boring picture.)
- Keep your photographer up-to-date with any family events or situations which may impact on your day, for example any deaths or divorces
- Ask a family member or the Best Man to be responsible for identifying people on the day
- Ask your photographer to take photos of the little ones first before they get too excited or too bored
- Weekday or Sunday weddings may be discounted
- Enquire of your wedding venue(s), especially religious or historic buildings, if there are any no go areas where you cannot be photographed or where flash photography is not allowed
- For winter weddings, particularly if the wedding is later in the day, there may be a lack of natural light. Your photographer needs to skilled in low-level lighting so ensure you see examples of winter weddings in their portfolio
- Ask your photographer to take close up shots such as the detail on the back of your dress or your hair; table decorations; the flowers.
- Consider setting up a photo corner, complete with lighting, at your reception - it's not everyday folks have on their best bib and tucker and have a professional photographer on hand!
- Instead of one Guest Book, have a separate book for each table at the reception and ask your photographer to take a group shot to be included along with your guests comments
- BIPP British Institute of Professional Photography
- LBIPP = Licentiate, ABIPP = Associate, FBIPP = Fellow
- LPPA Irish Professional Photographers Association: The Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers
Q: My photographer has asked that no one else take pictures during the formal photography. Is this reasonable?
A: Yes, as it could slow everything down. With several cameras aimed at a formal group, diverted attention could ruin the professionals pictures. So, as you are paying him, let him do his job first.
Q: I want traditional and candid shots. Do I need two photographers?
A: Not necessarily, most photographers use several styles, though some studios offer two camera coverage one concentrates on the formal photography whilst the other on the more casual shots.
Q: How long will the photography take?
A: It all depends on your "must take" list. Do you want the photographer to meet you where you are getting dressed? Do you want him to stay until you leave your reception? Your photographer will endeavour to take all the shots on your list and will be able to give you an estimate of the time to set aside. Its essential, therefore, to talk this through with him beforehand to enable you to schedule your day.
Q: Should I ask, "What do I get and how much does it cost?"
A: Yes, but only when you have found the "right" photographer for you and you will only know this after viewing samples of their work. Remember, what you are buying is memories and feeling. When you find a photographer whom you feel will capture these for you, you will never regret your investment, whatever the cost.
Q: What technical details should I look for in sample photographs?
A: Lighting quality is an important ingredient in superior photographs. It should be natural and flattering so that pictures look almost three dimensional. Too much flash photography creates "flattened" faces and harsh reflections. Wherever the location, the photographer should make the picture be about either the people or, the people and the environment. In the former the background goes unnoticed. In the latter, the background adds to the composition.
Q: Colour or black and white?
A: Nowadays, each photograph is available in colour, black and white, sepia or combinations.
Q: I want to make copies of my photos. Does my photographer really own the copyright of his/her pictures?
A: Yes, images created by a professional photographer are copyrighted the moment they are created. However, he/she may set a time limit on the duration of the copyright. If so, have this written into the contract.
|