I’ve booked the company already, this is the meeting with the actual person who will be taking pictures at my wedding (which isn’t until July). What questions do I need to ask him? Obviously, I’ll be asking to see his portfolio, just to make sure he does what I”m looking for, but what else?
Wedding- Photographer Reference Questions?
May 1, 2010 11 Comments
What are some questions I should ask those whom my [potential] photographers list as references?
How much should we budget for wedding flowers and photographer?
April 26, 2010 6 Comments
We are only having one attendant each and have three sets of parents and only two grandmothers.
Our budget is $7000 to $8000. We are having about 85 people at our wedding and reception.
This includes my dress, the groom’s clothes, everything. The ceremony, reception & dance are going to cost us about $5000 already. Includes drinks/wine, supper, cake, bartenders.
Please Help!!! Wedding photographer questions?
April 24, 2010 2 Comments
i have been asked by my friend to take some pictures for him on his wedding day. His soon to be wife is having a professional photographer with her in the morning and then at the wedding, but i will be with him and the best man and all the other people at his house before he sets off to the church. Only problem is, i have never done anything like this before so not sure what to expect and would just like some tips or guidance. My photography isn’t too bad ( few pics here http://www.flickr.com/photos/lukemccarthy19/ ) but just a bit daunted and don’t want to end up with poor pictures that any joe bloggs could have taken. your comments and tips would help loads.
THanks
What questions should I ask the references my potential wedding photographer provided?
March 16, 2010 3 Comments
How To Hire A Wedding Photographer – 4 Steps To Finding The Right Professional To Capture Your Day
March 14, 2010 Leave a Comment
Many brides are comfortable with such priorities as reception site or catering selection, but may not be as familiar with the process of hiring the right wedding photographer. Wedding photography is one of the most important aspects of your day, so you’ll need to choose wisely to get the wedding pictures you desire. This guide will walk you through it.
1) Consider Chemistry
Brides often underestimate the importance of the photographer´s personality, yet this person will end up being a very personal guest at your most important event. Evaluate carefully whether you feel comfortable with this person. Some of the most beautiful moments happen behind the scenes, while the bride is dressing, while the couple steals a kiss, and you should feel comfortable inviting the photographer to capture these moments. First find a wedding photographer you like as a person, then evaluate the artistic criteria.
2) Review the Portfolio
Seasoned wedding photographers have what is called a “book,” which is a portfolio of their best work. Evaluating a photographer´s portfolio depends on your own stylistic and artistic preferences. His or her work should match your tastes and style. Make sure the images speak to you and reflect your personal visions for your wedding day. Look for crisp images, thoughtful composition and good lighting. Also ask to see the shots from a complete wedding; that way you can see it all – not just the highlights – and you will have a better feel for his or her ability to capture your day.
3) Ask the Right Questions
During the interview, make sure you have answered these important questions:
Who will be taking the pictures?
Make sure that the photographer whose portfolio you review will be the actual person who takes the pictures at your wedding.
What is the photographer´s primary style?
Many photographers claim to shoot both classic and photojournalistic photography, but in reality, most are better at one or the other. Make sure you know his or her strengths and background to ensure you get the wedding photos you want.
Do you shoot mostly in color, black and white, or both?
Your photographer should have experience with both and be able to customize to meet your needs.
How many rolls do you shoot?
Obviously more rolls of film means more wedding photos to choose from, but remember that more rolls usually cost more money.
Are you familiar with the location?
Your photographer should be familiar with the ceremony and reception site so that he or she can quickly and efficiently capture the best shots.
What are your references?
Call each reference and ask whether or not the person was satisfied with the overall experience and received the desired photos.
4) Get Everything in Writing
To avoid any confusion, all of the details that you have painstakingly discussed should be in writing. Read the contract carefully, especially the fine print.
Get even more photography advice and access to the best photographers near you in this complete wedding photography resource.
How to Become a Wedding Photographer
March 10, 2010 Leave a Comment
Wedding photographers require creative zeal as well as technical knowledge of cameras, lighting and posing. Creative wedding photographers constantly strive to improve their work and endeavor to avoid the pitfall of producing the same poses week after week. Today’s brides want something a little bit different, so that their wedding pictures will be truly distinctive.
Unlike most other commercial areas of photography, wedding photographers need not be full-time or “professional” photographers. Most weddings occur on weekends-when most people are not working at their regular nine-to-five jobs-and anyone who owns the proper equipment and possesses the ability can photograph a wedding. For this reason, many people are or would like to become what professional full-time photographers call “weekenders”. Weekenders frequently start out very innocently, when a friend or relative who knows that they take “nice pictures” asks them to take pictures at a wedding.
Temperament is as important to a wedding photographer as fine pictures. A typical wedding day may include encounters with crying mothers, intoxicated or angry guests and a variety of people who may intentionally or unintentionally become bothersome. Being able to deal with interpersonal relationships is therefore an invaluable asset. Short tempers, ulcers, a heart condition, and the like are not conducive to this type of work. On the other hand, some photographers, because of their charm, are so well liked that the client will be very happy with the pictures if they are slightly flawed in some way.
Once you decide to become a wedding photographer, two important questions arise. The first is how to learn to become a good wedding photographer. The emphasis here is on the word good, since anyone who takes pictures, assuming that the photographs are relative clear and properly exposed, can be considered a wedding photographer. The second question is whether to freelance or work for a studio. Apprenticeship may be a little-used expression in most other fields. It is however, the best way to learn wedding photography.
To really appreciate the strains and complexities encountered, you must go out and see what it’s like. The standard procedure calls for the apprentice to first watch what the photographer does. Once he thinks he knows what is happening, he will be able to assist the photographer in setting up equipment, he will be able to assist the photographer in setting up equipment or posing people. Later, using his own equipment, he will be allowed to shoot doubles of what the photographer takes. When the photographer feels confident in the work of his apprentice, he will allow him to shoot parts for the wedding alone. The final stage is when the apprentice-now photographer-does an entire job on his own.
Some wedding photographers work for studios as weekenders, some for themselves as weekenders, and many, to the chagrin of studio owners, do both. Most studios want people who are experienced and who can show samples of work already completed. A studio may train you if it feels that you have potential and show desire. Even if you have experience, a studio may want to retrain you to follow its particular style. Studios expect their photographers to work on a regular basis. They do not want to book your own jobs, nor are they happy if you work for their competitors. The greatest competition for most studios are weekenders,and usually their own! Talented freelancers have the potential to earn high fees. Getting started is the most difficult problem. No one wants you to experiment on their wedding day. One shortcoming of being a freelancer is that some brides insist that some formal pictures be taken in a studio.
How to Become a Wedding Photographer
March 10, 2010 Leave a Comment
Wedding photographers require creative zeal as well as technical knowledge of cameras, lighting and posing. Creative wedding photographers constantly strive to improve their work and endeavor to avoid the pitfall of producing the same poses week after week. Today’s brides want something a little bit different, so that their wedding pictures will be truly distinctive.
Unlike most other commercial areas of photography, wedding photographers need not be full-time or “professional” photographers. Most weddings occur on weekends-when most people are not working at their regular nine-to-five jobs-and anyone who owns the proper equipment and possesses the ability can photograph a wedding. For this reason, many people are or would like to become what professional full-time photographers call “weekenders”. Weekenders frequently start out very innocently, when a friend or relative who knows that they take “nice pictures” asks them to take pictures at a wedding.
Temperament is as important to a wedding photographer as fine pictures. A typical wedding day may include encounters with crying mothers, intoxicated or angry guests and a variety of people who may intentionally or unintentionally become bothersome. Being able to deal with interpersonal relationships is therefore an invaluable asset. Short tempers, ulcers, a heart condition, and the like are not conducive to this type of work. On the other hand, some photographers, because of their charm, are so well liked that the client will be very happy with the pictures if they are slightly flawed in some way.
Once you decide to become a wedding photographer, two important questions arise. The first is how to learn to become a good wedding photographer. The emphasis here is on the word good, since anyone who takes pictures, assuming that the photographs are relative clear and properly exposed, can be considered a wedding photographer. The second question is whether to freelance or work for a studio. Apprenticeship may be a little-used expression in most other fields. It is however, the best way to learn wedding photography.
To really appreciate the strains and complexities encountered, you must go out and see what it’s like. The standard procedure calls for the apprentice to first watch what the photographer does. Once he thinks he knows what is happening, he will be able to assist the photographer in setting up equipment, he will be able to assist the photographer in setting up equipment or posing people. Later, using his own equipment, he will be allowed to shoot doubles of what the photographer takes. When the photographer feels confident in the work of his apprentice, he will allow him to shoot parts for the wedding alone. The final stage is when the apprentice-now photographer-does an entire job on his own.
Some wedding photographers work for studios as weekenders, some for themselves as weekenders, and many, to the chagrin of studio owners, do both. Most studios want people who are experienced and who can show samples of work already completed. A studio may train you if it feels that you have potential and show desire. Even if you have experience, a studio may want to retrain you to follow its particular style. Studios expect their photographers to work on a regular basis. They do not want to book your own jobs, nor are they happy if you work for their competitors. The greatest competition for most studios are weekenders,and usually their own! Talented freelancers have the potential to earn high fees. Getting started is the most difficult problem. No one wants you to experiment on their wedding day. One shortcoming of being a freelancer is that some brides insist that some formal pictures be taken in a studio.
How To Choose A Wedding Photographer
March 9, 2010 Leave a Comment
Most people will say that wedding photography can only be captured by a professional with a keen sense for creativity. These emotions will only be available over a short duration and can not be recreated. Most brides will first wonder how much does a wedding photographer cost. I will tell you this much, you will usually get what you pay for. This includes the creativity and time spent to create something unique. A professional wedding photographer in Michigan works very hard to preserve these once in a lifetime events.
You want your wedding to be perfect, and nothing is more important than the images from your big day. You will look back on these photos ten or twenty years from now reflecting on these precious memories. What do you expect from your wedding photographer? Do you want something simple, or something truly customized to your needs? This is a question you will have to ask yourself before finding out how much a wedding photographer will cost.
How Much Does a Wedding Photographer Cost
Well have you decided on what you are looking for yet? Before you do, you will need to understand the difference between cheap and good. I am sure you heard the slogan, ‘Cheap is not good and good is not cheap’. You will usually get what you pay for. As mentioned earlier this will be reflected in the time and energy put into your wedding day.
Knowing that your memories are on the line, you will have to feel comfortable with the wedding photographer you hire for your special occasion. Do you get the vibe that they will be able to deliver on your wedding day? Can they handle the expectations you have set for them? The best advice is to look over their portfolio and see if you notice any trends. If you do, then you are probably dealing with a cookie cutter service that does not step outside the sphere of influence often. Another biggie is recent references from brides within the last six months. These people will be able to tell you how they felt about their decision and the wedding photographer you are considering.
Cheap Wedding Photographers in Michigan
Buyer beware, there are many part time hobbyists out there that claim the title as a full time devoted wedding specialist. When looking over their portfolios do you notice color and emotion? Do their pictures tell a story about the day as it unfolds? Some different poses and indoor outdoor shots will give you an idea of the imagination of the vendor you are working with. This has to be one of the most important aspects of the choice you make. For example, many cheap wedding photographers in Michigan might not carry this trait. If they do, then their prices may be set low to acquire business because of a lack of referrals. You will have to do the investigating to figure out how their prices compare and what is the reasoning behind their pricing structure.
Average Wedding Photographer Prices
Many brides to be will consider price their deciding factor in going with a photographer. This is a big no no when it comes to hiring the company that can make or break the entire evening let alone day. Going back to what we said earlier price should be the least important factor. Now I would like you to think really hard for one moment.
Do you want your wedding reception and wedding ceremony pictures to be average?
Honestly, no bride does. Your wedding is different from all the others being planned. So how does your photographer set him/herself apart from the competition? Do they bring additional assistants to get more than one perspective? What is the turn around time on the proofs? To help you distinguish between the average and the exceptional, I have laid out a couple of helpful tips on how to choose a wedding photographer below.
Final considerations for a Wedding Photographer in Michigan
So there are several important questions you should be asking before going out of your way to pick the perfect wedding photographer. A couple of final considerations are the type of lighting your photographer will be using, the equipment/filters, how many assistants, and photo copyrights. Now that you have been given some great advice on how to choose a wedding photographer, it is up to you to make the final decision.
So, if you are looking for a creative and professional wedding photography company in Michigan, then keep in mind the following advice and you should get outstanding results.
Have any wedding questions? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.
How to Choose Your Wedding Photographer?
March 7, 2010 Leave a Comment
Finding the right Wedding Photographer
Choosing a wedding photographer depends on a number of different criteria. You need to have a clear idea of what’s involved in choosing a wedding photographer that’s right for you.
Reputation and Experience: these days digital photography has given everyone the power to take good images, but only true professionals with talent and training can provide you with a professional service. A personal recommendation is often a good starting point. You cannot afford a ‘no show’ or a botched job. You only have one chance to get your wedding photography right and you have to be able to trust the photographer.
Someone who will fit in: You need to shop around and meet the wedding photographer. There’s nothing worse than hiring someone whose personality or style does not fit the occasion. Most wedding photographers try to be as unobtrusive as possible and behave like and look like a guest.
Will they take photographs we actually like? Take a look at their work and decide if this is the style for you.
Do they offer a wide range of packages to provide choice to meet our budget? Always key to choosing the right wedding photographer: they have to fit your budget with no hidden costs.
When Should You Book Your Wedding Photographer?
The sooner the better. 9-12 months before is a good rule of thumb. Why so long? Well, like a wedding venue can get fully booked, so can a wedding photographer. Most only work on weekends and there isn’t that many weekends in a year. And while you are at it, make sure you are not being provided with an assistant rather than the main man or woman.
What Are The Different Styles of Wedding Photography On Offer?
These days there is much greater choice than just the traditional wedding photographs.
A wedding as an exercise in photojournalism.
This approach turns the wedding experience into a story with a beginning and end and covers a number of styles which can be very individual to the photographer. It will usually employ a number of locations which are pertinent to the bride and groom’s ‘story’.
The style is usually described as ‘candid’ and shot using available light. If any of your family hankers after traditional planned shots of family groups, the ceremony, etc. then be very careful about this style.
Traditional wedding photographs:
The complete opposite of the photo journalistic style, this is the one we all know. It means endless poses of the bridge and groom, the best man, the bride’s parents, the groom’s parents, everyone together, cute page boys – you get the idea. Usually a wedding photographer in this style will have done the same prepared set of shots with the same camera positions and lighting, even at the same venues, dozens of times. It isn’t exactly spontaneous or original but it does record the event and people for posterity.
Artistic wedding photography style:
This is another planned and posed style but makes use of location, composition, unusual angles and digital rendering to produce something between candid and traditional. But beware: some artistic photographers can be a little “off the wall” – make sure you see several examples of their style before choosing.
What Should I Pay For A Wedding Photographer?
Answering that question is like answering ‘how long is a piece of string?’ You must make a decision based on your overall budget. Decide what percentage of your budget is required for professional wedding photography.
What you must ensure is that you get value for money. This means you have to do a bit of research, ask friends what they paid and look for recommendations.
A typical price range is from $1000 to $3000. It could be a lot more but not a lot less unless you just want the photographer to show up and leave you to it.
To decide what you should pay means you have to understand what you want and the service you require.
Some questions to consider: Do you just want the negatives/digital files to ‘do it yourself’ or a complete professional service? Type and style of albums? The final number of photographs required? The range of photographs: is it just the wedding ceremony, or will it cover the whole day including reception? The reputation and previous work of the wedding photographer.
Summing it all up
Like everything else, wedding photography has changed and the digital age has offered many new opportunities. Make sure you plan ahead and make the choices you and the families involved will be comfortable with. You only get one chance to create a wedding album which you will cherish for a lifetime.
Have any wedding questions? Get all the answers you need now at Rachael West Designs.
