AM Photography

I read about many people online asking “Why is wedding photography so expensive?”

Wedding photographers are different from other styles of photography in that the wedding day only occurs once, in unpredictable circumstances with inconsistent lighting.  Photographers who take portraits in studios have consistent lighting and consistent circumstances.  Wedding photographers have to be ready for the unexpected.

Your wedding day should not be handed over to someone who does not have:

• backup equipment
• backup power
• sufficient lighting (on or off camera)
• sufficient experience (outside a studio)
• insurance for lost or damaged equipment
• a written contract

Now, the new trend in weddings is to DIY. This is a great idea for decor, cakes, food, flowers, etc. but don’t skimp on the photography or planning.  Don’t want to take it from me? Then read this post from Lauren at Every Last Detail Blog. Then I want you to scroll down to Shirley’s comment where she says this:

Hi, I too got a bad deal on my wedding photos. I waited and waited to hear back from the photographer I hired to take our photos and when I did he informed me that the camera “malfunctioned” and all my photos had been “lost”. To my horror there was nothing I could do but accept his apology and his refund check. Of course he offered to take more photos but, the tuxedos had been returned, the church was no longer decorated, the reception hall was rented out to another bridal party and my guests had long since gone home. I had to call as many of my family and friends and beg them for copies of photos they took at the wedding. There won’t be any professional photos of my wedding day to hang on my walls, grace my photo album or show to our children. All I have are photos with the back of people heads in them or my husband and I posing with this guest or that one. Although I am grateful for the amateur pictures, nothing can replace having good quality photos of my once in a lifetime event. It still bothers me after 10 years of marriage to see a beautiful picture of a bride and groom. So, if you are planning you wedding, DON’T SKIP ON HIRING A HIGH QUALITY PHOTOGRAPHER!

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When you think about it, the only thing you have to remember your wedding day is your photos and video. Why skimp on those things and splurge on food/music/decor?  Yes, those things are important for your guests, but its YOUR day.

Ok, so let’s say you agree with all the above and are looking for a great photographer. First of all, you should just come to us! If that’s not an option or we are booked for your wedding date, here are a few questions to ask your potential photographer:

• How many weddings have you photographed as the primary photographer?
• Can I see a gallery of images from two weddings from start to finish (especially the ceremony!)?
• Do you have liability insurance?
• Do you have a backup plan in case of sickness/equipment failure?
• Do you use backup storage for all images?
• Will you be photographing the wedding day yourself, or will you be sending someone else?

The answers to all the above should be adequate for your idea of what you want to capture on your wedding day. Don’t settle for a few “right” answers! Go with the photographer who goes above and beyond to make your wedding day spectacular. Also, keep in mind that some wedding photographers book more than one wedding per weekend, and they send out different photographers to those weddings; so make sure and ask if they will be the ones at your wedding!

[Thanks to Lauren with Every Last Detail Blog for the additional insight.]

Do you agree or disagree? Leave us your comments and questions below.