10/06/2019
Questions Every Bride Needs To Ask Wedding Photographers Before Committing...
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS?
This question will tell you a lot about your photographer. The general rule of thumb is the longer they’ve been in business they more their technique has been perfected, and the better experience you will receive. You’re paying for experience with your photographer, and the experience they have behind the camera. Be prepared to see a various range of prices and generally the lower the price, the less experience they have.
I have 6 years experience and numerous wedding shoots to back up my experience. I've learned many do's and don't along the way. I usually base my price on the amount of time I'll be needed and the location of your wedding and reception. And, since every wedding is different I also work with each and every wedding individually to ensure your needs are covered.
DO YOU OFFER A CONSULTATION & WORK SAMPLES?
Meeting your photographer prior to your big day is very important! You'll want to discuss all expectations, costs and map out the day ahead of time. This will ensure that your day and your photographers day runs smoothly. You'll also want to see samples of other wedding photos taken. This will give you an idea of the quality you can expect. If there are special requests, this would also be a time to discuss them with your photographer. I always bring up pose ideas at this time. I like to get the bride and groom involved in seeking out special pose ideas they may want.
AVAILABILITY, DEPOSITS AND PAYMENT EXPECTATIONS?
Making sure your photographer is available for all your upcoming events is important. If you'll need your photographer for engagement photos, rehearsal dinner and the wedding day it's important to know the dates and book the photographer for the days and times needed all at once. If you don't do this it may end up costing you more to hire individual photographers for each event because they dont have all dates needed available. Plus, having to rush at the last minute to find someone is a huge headache that could have been avoided. Be clear on dates and time for each event and put a deposit down for the photographer to book your events.
When booking with Savvy Media Pros, I will always go over everything with you during the consultation. I always ask for a minimum of 1/4 of your total costs for down payment. For example $400 total, equals $100 deposit. Remaining balance will be due when I arrive on your wedding day. If multiple dates are needed for different events, I will discuss costs and what payments are required prior to each event.
DO YOU OFFER EMGAGEMENT, REHERRSAL DINNER & WEDDING PARTY PHOTOS?
Every photographer's services are different. If having engagement photos done prior to your wedding is important to you, don't forget to ask prior to booking your photographer. Two additional important pre wedding events includes the wedding party and rehearsal dinner. Each event has its individual memories. However, it may not be something everyone thinks to ask their photographer about. While it will include an additional costs for your photographer to attend these events, the memories that will be captured will be priceless.
As a photographer, I offer these services and will bring it up during our consultation. I know getting ready for your wedding can be stressful. It's important to me to make sure I bring up these things because you may not be thinking about it at the time. Costs does depend on event location, length of time and which additional events are needed.
HOW MANY PHOTOS, ON AVERAGE, DO YOU DELIVER FOR WEDDINGS?
Ask photographers this question before you book, and you as a Bride need to know what number works for you. Are you okay with receiving less than 350 photos for 8 hours of wedding coverage? Or are you a Bride like I was that said “more the merrier”?
On average, my Brides can expect to receive 600-800 photos. I have the mentality that I’m not going to keep your memories from you. Many photographers will discard the photos that are out of focus, duplicates, eyes closed, or you’re making a less than a flattering face, and then deliver the best of the best to their couples. I deliver EVERY photo taken of your special day with a release to print as needed.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?
Many photographers will take the allotted time of 6-8 weeks, some photographers even tell their brides to expect up to 12-16 weeks!!! You need to ask them what their average turnaround time is without unforeseen circumstances. We’re talking about memories that will be cherished for a lifetime, and you and I both know you’re so excited to share those memories with friends and family. Here’s a little hint for you. We’re in the day of digital, it shouldn't take more than 2 weeks.
Delivering your photos is my number one priority! You can expect to have a turn around time for photos in less than 10 days, if you use me as your wedding photographer. 😀
HOW WILL I RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?
DVDs are 2019’s equivalent to floppy discs. Computers today aren’t even being made with a DVD drive, so the last option you want is the DVD. Some photographers even offer a website for you to access your photos online. This option is nice for ease of access. However, when it comes to receiving print quality photos I find this option to not be a reliable source.
I've found that USBs (Flash Drive) are reliable and can be easily used to download your photos to your computer, upload for printing and shared with family and friends. I also save a backup file of all your photos in the case that you misplace your USB drive
(I will save your wedding photos file for 5+ years)
These are just a few of the questions that I find most important when booking a wedding photographer.
One last tip... Yes, you feed your photographer and offer them to help themselves to drinks. 😉 Shooting a wedding is hard work and each photographer knows when the best time is to take a quick break that wont effect capturing your day.
If you need a photographer for any occasion, please feel free to contact me with any questions. Thank you!
