|
|
| *SoulEyes Photography>>>Wedding Photographer |
What should I ask a photographer before contracting with them? |
I am meeting with several wedding photographers this week, and I was wondering what type of questions I should ask? I know the style of photographs that I want and I know my budget for pictures. I also know that pictures are really expensive, but they are important to me so I just don't want to be ripped off. Thanks ahead of time for all your help! :) The above posters have covered almost everything. Ask to see a sample wedding album of one entire wedding, not just a "greatest hits" album. Anyone who charges for wedding photography can shoot a few good frames per wedding, but can they shoot 400 good ones? I doubt you'll be able to find one who charges 10% down and the rest on delivery of prints. Most will be paid in full for the photography side before shooting. One common plan is 30% retainer, balance due 2 weeks before wedding. Some will set up payment plans to work with you. Be plain in telling your photographer what you want and what kind of style you like. If their portfolio is full of formal posed shots, and you want trendy PJ shots, then keep looking. Whether they shoot film or digital is really no concern. Some use both, or will use either you prefer, some are only one or another. If you like what they're showing you, it doesn't matter what capture media they use. Good luck! Ask them for samples of their work and names of previous customers as references. If they aren't willing to give you references you probably don;t want to utilize them. references for the last 5 jobs they did on weddings, who controls the negatives (or digital media,) how does the payment go (10% down balance on acceptable performance?) have the photographer show you previous projects that they have done that are within your budget. This way you can see what you are buying and can determine if it is worth the price. If it turns out that you can not afford what you want, another option is disposable cameras on the tables and let the guests take photos. Then all you have to do is hire the photographer for a few posed pics for your album. This allows your friends and family to contribute too. Ask if you own the negatives at the end or if he/she does. That way you can make as many copies of photos you want without paying through the nose. Something to be very wary of - ask if the person you are talking to, is the person who shot the sample photos you are looking at AND the person who will actually show up at my wedding and take the pictures. I was burned by a guy who sent his BROTHER to shoot my wedding instead of going himself. The brother was a VERY BAD photographer. As a safety net - I suggest putting disposable cameras on each table at the reception. With so many pictures being taken some are bound to be good. Enjoy your wedding! Check references and their work. Ask exactly what they provide for the fee, will you get your negatives back or will you have to go through them every time you want prints. How many photographs will they provide you with?? How long will they be there. Do they charge extra if the wedding is late and they have to hang around and wait on you? you should ask to see his portfolio, and also recent events he attended and seek advice from there |
Photography Categories--Copyright/IP Policy--Contact Webmaster |