Photography

Photography is usually a large sum of the budget due to the sentimental aspect. It is not essential to have a specific wedding photographer when there are plenty of experienced photographers out there who do not specialise in weddings. Again, personal recommendations are the best option, but a couple should do their research until they are satisfied. Relying on friends is not the best idea as the couple needs someone who is completely dedicated to the task in hand.

The couple should decide on the style of photos they want. ‘Fly on the wall’ photography is natural and more interesting than traditional and more posed photos. However, the photographer should have experience of various styles of photography in order to provide both a vivid recollection of the day as well as certain formal shots. It is also a good idea to decide in advance whether the couple prefer black and white or colour images, or both.

Before choosing a photographer it is important for the couple to see the photographer’s portfolio, especially of other weddings. Seeing a whole set from another wedding will give the couple an idea of the photographer’s strengths and weaknesses. Seeing the photographs in print rather than online is preferable so that the quality is more visible. If a photographer uses a digital camera then it is easier for the couple to upload photos from the day in order for the guests to view them online after the day. Photographers who work with film can cause photos to be more costly and time-consuming when trying to upload them as each print will have to be scanned individually.

Always read the small print to make sure the photographer has adequate insurance and a back-up plan in case of illness or equipment failure. The cost of a photographer should be based on how long they are needed, how many pictures are wanted and how the couple want them to be presented. Couples who want a photographer for the whole day should expect to pay a lot of money. They will then arrive early to catch the bride getting ready and stay until the guests leave the reception. This kind of package will probably require the photographer to bring an assistant or second photographer.

A standard package will involve the photographer taking shots at the ceremony and then staying until the first dance. If more photos are required overtime is usually charged at an hourly rate, which can be very expensive.

It is left to the discretion of the photographer whether to charge for travel and accommodation so this must be checked in advance. A deposit of around 25 per cent is required upon booking in order to secure the date, with the balance payable on delivery of the photos.

Usually a photographer will offer a range of albums to the couple in various sizes and qualities; however, a couple is able to choose their own if they wish. The prints will

then be numbered in the album so that further prints can be easily re-ordered. It is normal for a couple to have between 200 and 600 photographs of the day depending on their choice of package. The package should include a set number of photos and any extra photos the couple wishes to have will be charged on top of the package price. Buying the copyright for the photos enables a couple to print as many photos as they wish.

Some points to note:

Asking the photographer to take engagement photos is a good way to test the photographer’s skills and will establish whether they have good people skills or not.

The photographer should visit the venue before the event in order to get a feel for the area.

The photographer should be briefed before the event so they are aware of where to be and when.

The couple should make sure that photography is allowed in their chosen venue in case of disappointment. A photographer should have a parking space reserved for them at the venues.

A seating plan should be given to the photographer and The best man or usher should point out the most important people.

A list of groups to be photographer should be drawn up in advance so they can easily be called together when necessary.

If there are any divorced parents then the formal shots should be discussed with the photographer in advance.

Check on restrictions on photographic reproduction for photos that include famous guests.