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Many couples say their wedding day goes by like a blur. If it
weren’t for the photos, they might never remember the little
details that made the day so special.
Both newlyweds and those celebrating their golden anniversaries
will tell you: In your planning efforts, from finding the ideal
cake design to selecting memorable favors, don’t neglect photography.
After all, how else will you and yours remember the day you
spent so much time planning? On anniversaries to come, it will
be through photos that you’ll recall such heart-warming details as
your first dance as husband and wife, how beautiful your friends
were and how amazing that custom-designed cake looked. Since
you can only live this special day once, you will need extraordinary
photographs to capture it all.
The right photographer is essential in capturing those beloved
memories for you, and generations to come, to enjoy. Here are
some tips for finding the photographer that will make you happy with the results:
Since you can only live
this special day once,
you will need extraordinary
photographs to capture
it all.
Don’t limit your options. Interview a minimum of
three to five photographers. Sit down with each one and get a
feel for his or her style, work ethic, reliability and portfolio. Personalities
do matter. Determine if this is someone you can work
with, someone off whom you and yours can bounce ideas while
feeling assured that what you want is what you’ll get. Be direct
in asking if the photographer you interview is the one who will
do the work, or will an associate take the job. Always review the
work of the person who will do the photography.
Consider your photographer’s strengths and
weaknesses, and how they impact your desired outcome.
Don’t expect a photographer with a penchant for still or posed
shots to suddenly break into a purely candid style. Instead, select
a professional that excels in candid photography if that’s what
you desire. If a mix of both styles is favored, find someone with
a great deal of stylistic range, and remember the proof is in the,
well, proof book.
Find sample shots of what you and yours want from
magazines and other helpful resources. Clip them out, and
don’t be afraid to bring in a stack of photo samples to express
what you’re looking for in the finished wedding album. As it is
in marriage, open communication is key. Be sure to relay what
events and which guests you want included as well. Be direct.
If you want black and white, color, or even sepia-toned images,
ask for those things up front so there are no surprises for you or
your photographer.
Put it in writing. Many photographers, if asked, prefer a
thorough list of required shots. This not only helps them understand
what you want, it also encourages you and yours to put
some thought into the type of photographs you’ll treasure years
from now. Don’t assume certain shots will be included. Put all
desired shots down on paper to avoid miscommunication. And
remember to apprise the photographer of your family dynamics.
For example, there may be a step-mom who would rather
drop dead than be photographed standing next to the mother of
the bride. A good photographer will know how to get the people
who are important to you into the shots you want without ruffling
any feathers.
Sign a contract. For the same reason that putting
required shots in writing is important, drafting a contract that
delineates the specifics of the business transaction is a must, say
local professionals. It should detail, among other things, the specific
services expected, the deposits and payments required and
a backup plan in case the photographer of choice cannot fulfill
his or her end of the contract. If the photographer in question
has business insurance, the couple will at least be guaranteed
their money back. If he or she is affiliated with a professional association,
especially at the local or state level, the couple might
be given a backup photographer.
Seek out personal referrals. Many photographers
are more than willing to provide interested parties with lists of
former clients and their contact information. Couples can and
should utilize such lists, contact the clients for input about the
photographer’s services and/or ability.
Attend follow-up planning sessions after the initial
meeting. This will build a good rapport between the photographer
and you, ensuring better communication and results. The
better the photographer gets to know a couple, the better he or
she will be able to capture the memories they will cherish on
their wedding day. Years from now, you’ll be glad you put the
extra work into selecting just the right person(s) for this job.
Photography courtesy of:
Sedona Bride
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