Of course when we say ‘shot’ we actually mean photographed. Let’s be frank here, nobody should be shot and certainly not by a kid.
Mastering the art of photography takes time and patience. Choosing a photographer, whether it be for advertising, commercial or weddings, should also take time and patience. The problem with digital camera’s is that everyone now thinks they are a good photographer. For sure, camera settings can be learned quickly, but it takes good practice to be a good photographer – not just any old practice!
It is very important that when choosing your wedding photographer you get it right. It is important that you do not simply choose your photographer based on price. For sure, you will have a budget, but what is more important that you choose the right one. It’s your wedding day and you need to appoint a decent photographer to ensure that you get the pictures you want – they’ve only got one shot at it, so choosing the right one is paramount.
As they say, if you pay peanuts, expect a monkey to turn up with a camera. You don’t want a monkey!
When choosing the right wedding photographer you must do your research. I don’t mean asking for referrals because no photographer in their right mind will give you the name and address of a previous client you will say anything but praise – so this is simply a waste of time. The best way to choose is to ask to inspect examples of their wedding albums, particularly insist on seeing a complete album – all from the same wedding. This is important because it gives you a complete overview of their ability to take pictures from start to finish; whereas if you make your decision based on an album made up of all different weddings, then for sure it will look great. But who’s to say that the other 99 images from the same wedding were also as good!
How much would you expect to pay for a wedding photographer? Well that depends on what they are offering. For full coverage (the whole day) and a quality album, then you are looking at about £2000. Remember it’s not £2000 for just a days work, after the wedding day there will be 2-3 days editing, plus planning and putting together the album.
You should also ask for a pre-wedding shoot, and ask for this to be included in the basic cost. You should NOT have to pay for this because it will assist the photographer and help them gain an understanding of how you and your partner are like in front of the camera; plus it gives you the opportunity to see how the photographer works.
Another factor to consider is whether you are supplied with the digital files. In all honesty there is no reason for the photographer to hold on to these and they should let you have them. Some photographers will charge you for this (and charge a lot of money), whereas I personally think this should be included in the overall package. It allows you the freedom to then print them at your own disposal for family and friends.
David Vidgen is the owner of bigdayphotographer, a Birmingham wedding and family photographer based in the UK.
Another great wedding photographer can be found at jedwardphotographer.com. They are a Sandiago photographer specialising in weddings, family, portrait, child and baby photography sessions. Remember to check out their wedding albums.