Sunday, April 3, 2011

Finding A Qualified Wedding Photographer

By Charles Murray


There are many decisions to be made and price points to consider when hiring a wedding photographer. Some of these are the number of hours the photographer will work, the location and any travel time, the people involved, the poses, and prints or albums wanted. Prices and packages can be very different depending upon the photographer, and careful research of both the quality of the work and the styles of the photographer are important.

Wedding photographers can be compared to other contractors who work by the hour or small job. While the costs of the albums or prints might seem outrageous, the number of hours involved throughout the day need to be considered as contributing factors for those prices.

Photographers have their equipment costs just as other contract based professionals supply their own materials and equipment, whether it is an electrician with tools or a carpenter with a woodshop. Having friends and family bring their own cameras might help reduce costs, but there are differences that will be seen. Special lights and flashes, multiple camera types to be used in different situations, computers for digital cameras, and more help to make the wedding photographs truly memorable. Typically this specialized equipment will take better pictures than a camera owned by a hobbyist.

The time of year also needs to be considered when looking to hire a wedding photographer. It is not unusual for summer prices to be higher as that is often a peak season for weddings, just as resorts and hotel might raise rates during peak times.

Photographers who are successful at capturing wedding photos have often developed the abilities to gauge personalities and characteristics of his or her subjects. Family members and guests should feel comfortable with the photographer and be able to relax in his presence. Sometimes it is a good idea to ask the photographer if there is a public event at which he or she will be working where their skills and interactions can be seen, and then the pictures can also be reviewed. The engagement picture session is another good opportunity to get a glimpse of the style, organization capabilities, and skills of the photographer. If the photographer is late, appears rushed or preoccupied, or does not listen to the needs of the couple, then the relationship does not need to continue, even if the pictures are acceptable.

When it is time to develop the pictures and have them printed and framed or compiled in an album, professional wedding photographers often use professional labs. The wedding couple can request to know where the pictures will be sent for this process. During this interview process with the photographers, couples can also ask about security measures taken and how the film and prints will be protected, such as how or if duplicates are made and the storage process. Professional photographers with reputable practices will be able to answer these questions and will take measures to secure the photographs.

Couples should interview many photographers, check their products and work style, and ask questions. Some photographers might agree to sell the proofs of the pictures so that the wedding couple can develop them on their own, but the quality might not be as desired. The wedding budget can survive hiring a professional photographer, but research should be made to ensure the most for the money.




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