I am not presenting a photo with today's blog because I do not want anyone to think this writing was inspired by any wedding I've shot. In fact, today's blog is inspired by all the wedding opportunities where people have chosen not to hire a professional wedding Photographer then expressed remorse when they didn't get the glorious, valuable photos they wished for.
Naturally, I understand concerns for costs--especially in our current economic state. And not every wedding has a generous or unlimited budget. There are times in the wedding planning where corners need to be cut, and maybe the photos are the item on which you are willing to compromise. But if you do indeed want extraordinary photographic memories, keep in mind you are not just paying for someone to attend on the day of your wedding with a spiffy camera. You are investing in an expert with years of experience and training, professional customer service, and expecting reliable, high quality products. When people hire a student or accept a hobbyist shutterbug's gift/offer to shoot the wedding for them, one must accept they are risking quality, dependability, service, and guarantees.
Weddings are among the toughest assignments any Photographer can shoot. It requires being alert at all times, knowing what to shoot and when, predicting moments, a great deal of finesse in moving about and handling multiple people, and is physically demanding (especially for me, with my bad roller derby-injured knees). Being able to think faster than moments happen, predicting what will happen next, and knowing what lens, camera, lighting, and angle to shoot are all decisions and thoughts that one must be able to process simultaneously and get correct, because there are no opportunities for "re-do's" at wedding ceremonies and receptions.
In addition to shooting high quality, valuable, storytelling images, Photographers must then put in many hours of editing after the wedding (what we call post-production work). While some clients insist on seeing all images, a wise and savvy person should actually expect and allow the Photographer to fully, professionally edit their images before viewing them. We exclude as few images as possible. There is no need to show a client ten shots of the exact same moment , a poorly focused/shot image, or a snapshot that would offend or embarrass. One must trust the Photographer will judiciously edit as well as touch-up images for maximum visual appeal adding a bit of pop, dimension, artistic effects, and other enhancements that bump the images up to a much higher level of quality. This is truly where you get the most value when paying for a professional to capture and present your once-in-a-lifetime moments.
Too often I hear stories of regret for not hiring a professional with a portfolio and style the couple really wanted. There is no way to turn back time to recapture your wedding day. Be sure you are fully comfortable with your Photographer's portfolio, style, attitude, and professionalism. Demand a contract (even if a friend or family is shooting for you) and understand all the wording before you sign. And please remember the hundred plus hours a pro puts in to YOUR DAY to create unique, special images and what that's worth.
Of course, I am happy to talk with anyone, meet in person, and work out a photo package and price that suits your needs and expectations... So long as I do not end up making less than minimum wage for the fabulous work I produce. :o)
Cheers,
Brigette
Outer Focus Photos
www.outerfocusphotos.com
info@outerfocusphotos.com
773.853.2283
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