Help and Advice (FAQ)

Photography

Most couples who have a friend or relative, that is a non-professional photographer take pictures of their wedding, think they are saving money. Unfortunately, it is not until after they see these pictures that they realize it is too late to change their mind. One of a couple’s most prized possessions over time is their wedding album, containing images of the most special day of their lives together. They are images of friends and family that may never be in the same place together again. Wedding albums are listed as the #1 material possession couples will try to save when disaster strikes.

Do I really need a professional photographer for my wedding?
Ask yourself these questions:

Will my friend or relative be staged in the proper locations to capture the images I want?
A professional photographer been trained in how to be in the right spot at the decisive moment. Ask if your photographer has attended special classes specifically dedicated to wedding photography. A professional photographer has the experience to pose group photos, be in the correct location to properly compose an image, and the intuition to know when to record that special moment.

Does my friend or relative have the type of camera necessary to capture images without the use of flash during my ceremony?
Some venues, especially churches, do not allow use of flash during the ceremony. A professional photographer will never use flash during the actual ceremony. A professional’s cameras are capable of using available light to capture images without distracting you and your guests from the ceremony.

Will my friend or relative capture the image rather than participating in the event?
A professional photographer should not drink alcohol before or during your event. If your photographer is invited to eat, they should be that last ones in line. A professional photographer will not take unflattering pictures of guests eating, but are always on the lookout for interesting moments that occur during mealtime. A professional photographer will not participate in dancing, catching the bouquet or garter, or other activities planned for your guests. The sole purpose of a professional photographer to be there is to photograph your wedding.

Will an amateur photographer provide me with a quality assembled wedding album?
A professional photographer uses top quality wedding albums, prints, and accessories. They take the time to assemble your album in an aesthetic, chronological order that you will be able to proudly show your friends and family from the moment the albums are delivered.

Will an amateur photographer provide prints to others who want prints, and how will they do that? Will this occur in a timely manner?
Professional photographers utilize several different methods to accomplish this. Some offer proof books, while others offer on-line viewing in an internet gallery. Some internet sites allow your guests to order images on-line and have them mailed directly to their home.

Is digital photography as good as film?
The short answer is yes. And in some ways, it's even better. However, digital is not the answer to every problem. You still have to start with good photography. Digital imaging technology now allows photographers to create a wide variety of effects, and retouch images in ways that were not even possible with traditional film processes. Digital also allows your photographer to create backup copies of your wedding images which can be stored safely and protected for years to come. The photographic prints you receive a still printed on the same paper, using the same processes as film-based photography, and have the same life expectancy, which is a minimum of seventy years under most conditions.

How does a photographer's price reflect the quality of their work?
A lower price doesn't mean lower quality photography. However, you almost always get what you pay for. Most newer photographers (those in business for less than three years) will generally offer smaller packages at a lower entry price. Their work may be outstanding, and it's your good fortune to catch one of these budding artists before they "make it big". You should balance your budget for photography proportionally to the rest of your wedding. Remember, when the wedding is over, the photography is all that remains to represent the entire investment you've made in your wedding event.

Why do I have to buy an album? Can't I just have my pictures on a CD?
Most photographers will offer packages that include a complete wedding album of a particular size or style. Your photographer is experienced at designing and packaging his or her photography in a way that best represents your wedding story. Most professional photographers use the services of a professional photo lab, which typically use a higher grade of photographic materials in the production of your photographs. The idea of purchasing a CD and printing your own photographs sounds tempting, but how your photographs are prepared and presented is just as important as the photography itself, and should be left to a professional.

Does having black-and-white photographs taken at my wedding cost extra?
Digital photography now allows most any image to be printed in color or black-and-white, at your request. The photographer may make artistic decisions on which images are best represented in color, etc., but the digital medium allows this flexibility with the click of a mouse. Because of this, most photographers now offer black-and-white prints as part of their coverage at no extra charge.

What about having my wedding photographs online?
Many photographers will host their own website, or utilize a hosting service to provide online access to your wedding photographs. This is a great way to share your wedding with family and friends around the world. Some photographers charge for this service, but most offer it for free. Most sites allow viewers to purchase individual photographs as well.

Do I get to keep my negatives?
Most photographers will retain ownership of their negatives, or "digital negatives" indefinitely, or for a specific amount of time. Photographers prefer to control the creation of prints from their images due to quality control more than trying to make money. The quality of a finished photographic print can vary greatly, depending on the quality and experience of the photo lab that produces it. Most photographers use a single professional lab to guarantee consistent quality of the photographs they produce.

What happens if my photographer gets sick and can't be there for my wedding?
Any professional photographer should have a backup plan in the event they become ill or injured and are unable to provide the services covered by your contract. This contingency should be covered in detail, in writing in the contract you sign at the time of booking your photographer. Most photographers will guarantee a substitute photographer, or a full refund of your payments in the event they are unable to perform the prescribed duties.

My church doesn't allow photography in the sanctuary during the ceremony. Is this going to be a problem?
Most churches have rules against photographers in the sanctuary during the wedding service. Normally, flash pictures are not allowed during the ceremony. However, most churches do allow the photographer to take "time" exposures, that is, photographs without flash, from the balcony or back of the church, as long as it is done quietly. Consult with your photographer ahead of time, and check with your church's wedding coordinator to verify the rules of your particular church.