Wedding Photographs
Perhaps the most important part of your wedding day will be choosing how you capture your future memories on film. The task is often easier said than done. The right time to hire your photographer is after setting your date and booking your reception location. However, deciding what you want before you begin your search is important in finding the correct photographer to ensure your memories are preserved in the style that’s right for you. Make your photos a true image of you. Consider mixing and matching styles or choose one that reflects your personal taste.
SUIT YOUR STYLE
Wedding photography has come a long way since mom and dad got married, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll want to forego all the traditional wedding shots. Weddings are one of the few special times in life when friends and families come together to celebrate. Color portraits of the bride and her parents, the wedding party and the newly married couple with their new extended family remain essential for most brides. Even with a limited budget, you’ll probably want a package that contains many of these traditional poses. However, just because these shots have been done for years doesn’t mean they can’t reflect your own personality. The traditional photo will look beautiful on your parent’s mantel. A candid black-and-white photo of you and your groom embracing may be the image you’ll want to display.
Most wedding photo packages blend a balanced mix of the traditional and contemporary. Get the traditional pre- and post-ceremony photos plus the more spontaneous, artistic pictures. A creative, experienced photographer can help you achieve your own personal style through sharing your thoughts and feelings about your wedding. They help chronicle the memories you want to share as a couple and with your families and friends.
Some brides prefer photos with a journalistic touch, capturing the days events as they unfold into your first story as husband and wife, while others prefer artistic shots with canted angles, blurred backgrounds, off-center compositions and streaks of motion. Black and white vs. color is another consideration - some like a mix of both. The most trendy albums show an eclectic mix of off-beat images, often shot with a sense of humor and informality. If your style is casual and humorous, your photos should reflect that. Find a photographer who can capture your essence.
The ContractOnce you have met with the photographer in their studio, looked through their portfolio, followed up on their references, discussed your likes and dislikes, and have decided to move ahead, you need to make sure some basic questions are answered in the photographers’ contract. They include:
- How many images will be shot at the wedding?
- Is an album included? How many pages? What size?
- How are proofs provided? Can you keep the proofs?
- What is the deadline for delivery of the proofs?
- What is the deadline for delivery of the finished work?
- Do they archive the images? Do you receive a DVD of all the images? Is it High or Lo resolution?
Be organized and communicate openly with your photographer. Confirm the date and time, provide them with a list of "must-have" shots and alert them to the presence of any possible uncomfortable family situations - divorced parents, family members that do not get along or deceased grandparents.
The Latest...Visit websites of wedding photographers to find photo styles you like and review specific photographers’ work. Many photo studios allow you to review and order your wedding proofs online, making it convenient for out-of-town relatives and friends who can’t stop by after the honeymoon to take a look.