Answers about Wedding Photography

Planning a wedding can be a very daunting task. What with time constraints and budget concerns, some couples choose to leave some of the more important aspects out of their wedding completely. Photography should not be one of them. In this audio program, we will address some basic topics on wedding photography that every couple should know when planning their special day.

How far in advance should I book a photographer for my wedding?

Many photographers recommend booking a photographer as soon as you get engaged, or at least until you know the wedding date. It is suggested that the engaged couple book 8-12 months in advance because many studios book wedding dates quickly. Weddings are more prominent from May to October when the weather is most favorable. If you choose to hold your wedding within this period, the photographer you choose will likely require a non-refundable deposit or retainer fee to hold your wedding date. This ensures that you will have this studio or photographer on your desired date, as well as securing a job for your photographer. The sooner you book your photographer, the more likely you are to be able to work with your first choice. 

What are the advantages of hiring a professional?

The main advantage to hiring a professional wedding photographer is experience. Most wedding photographers have experience dealing with many different individuals and difficult personalities.  They have faced unfavorable weather conditions, and encountered technical problems. Since they specialize in photography, they are well equipped to handle various wedding sizes or photo demands. Unlike a friend or relative of the couple, a professional photographer's main goal is capturing candid moments on film. Knowing they are depended on delivering superior photos that will be cherished for years to come, they are less apt to be carried away by aspects of the ceremony. With an event that allows no second chances, hiring a professional is a good investment that will help keep your memories of your special day around for years.

How do I choose a photographer for my wedding?

First, get some recommendations from people you know about different photographers they have used. Friends and relatives who have had good experiences with the photographers or studios they have used should be more than eager to share this information with you. After reviewing websites and online portfolios, contact each studio or photographer that you are interested. Meet at their studio and look at samples of their work in person, preferably with each party of the engaged couple. Ask to see pictures from different weddings, and if possible a full wedding. Doing so allows for complete evaluation of photography styles and formats, or even artistic impressions that each photographer can offer you. Ask yourself if they share your artistic vision while looking through their portfolio. Do you agree with the styles they use? Is the quality to your liking? Also, take note of how well you communicate and interact with each photographer. Besides friends and family, your photographer is the one person you will be interacting with the most. Feeling comfortable enough to communicate with them during your wedding will lessen the stress of an already hectic day. Once you have chosen a photographer whose work you are pleased with, and whose personality is compatible with your own, you can then discuss price ranges.

Is there any way to save money when it comes to hiring a professional photographer for my wedding?

There are a couple of things you can do to cut down the cost of photography without sacrificing quality. Many photographers determine what they charge based on how many hours they spend at a wedding. Meaning, holding a short wedding can significantly reduce how much you pay. Cut the cost of extras by either buying a basic photo package, or finding a photographer who is willing to let you keep the proofs. This way you can print extra copies without getting charged an extra fee. In addition, choosing to shoot with digital cameras is not only budget conscious, but time saving as well.

What about black and white photos as opposed to color?

There are a couple of advantages and disadvantages when it comes to shooting in both black and white, and color film. Color is the more versatile of the two formats. It gives you an accurate depiction of the events that took place, and can easily be converted into black and white prints. However, they do not last as long as prints that stem from black and white film. Yet many couples choose color because it is not as costly as black and white film. Black and white film is the choice for many wedding photographers who consider themselves photojournalists. Additionally, many couples believe that black and white photos have a sense of classic elegance and timelessness to them. The main reason why it costs more to shoot with black and white film rather than with color is because it is developed by hand. In this sense, each photo is an original piece of artwork untouched by technology. Choosing either black and white film, or color prints will all depend on what the photographer prefers to use, what styles you are akin to, and how much you are willing to spend.