We are all familiar with the saying “a picture paints a thousand words” and this is so true when it comes to weddings. However, this may not be the case if you decide to cut costs and ask a family friend or relative who’s a keen amateur, to photograph your wedding. Consider how important your wedding photographs are to you; the images should reflect the whole emotion of what is, after all, one of the most important days of your lives. Your wedding photographs will be the beginning of your journey, and your album, an heirloom for future generations.
What value do you put on good photography?
In this digital age, there are people who don’t always value the creative images taken by qualified, experienced professionals. You will often hear:
“My friend/relative has a ‘decent’ camera so they’re taking the pictures”
“Wedding photography is expensive, so let’s not bother”
“We know an amateur/professional photographer who is really cheap, so we’re going to use them”
What should you expect from your photographer?
A professional photographer will always meet with the bride and groom several times before the big day. There is often an initial meeting to discuss the plans for your day and this gives you the opportunity to be sure that the photographer’s style is what you are looking for. At Studio H Photography, we often also do a ‘pre-wedding’ shoot at our studio or the reception venue so that couples get used to being in front of the camera ~ this really helps those that are a little camera shy and pays dividends on the wedding day.
A professional photographer will not only produce stunning images, but will also be able to help with the smooth running of the day. They have years of experience and know where to be at the right time, often working very closely with the vicar or officiator, the hotel, and the caterers. Your photographer should capture images that reflect all the fun and atmosphere of the day and can work up to 12 hours or more, from bridal prep right through to the ‘First Dance’.
Once the photos are taken that’s not it, there is the editing and the creation of an album. There is so much more to it than just a camera.
A few other points to consider!
- A professional photographer should have public liability insurance at the very least. If they are advertising their services as a professional, check that they have adequate insurance in place. If not, we’d recommend looking elsewhere.
- Ask if the photographer is qualified. Although not essential, most professional photographers hold qualifications with organisations such as the BIPP, MPA, RPS, or the SWPP.
- Ask to see examples of complete weddings to get a real feel for your photographer’s style and check that the person you meet will be the person who is actually covering your day. A good relationship with your photographer is so important if you want relaxed images.
The art of wedding photography is always evolving. New techniques, lighting and of course cameras all play their part, but having someone with experience and the ability to relax people on the day, whilst being able to create stunning, timeless images that will last for future generations has to count for something, doesn’t it?
Remember on your wedding day that good photography isn’t expensive, it’s priceless! When all the cake is eaten, the flowers have died and the excitement is over, all that will be left will be your day in photographs – why trust it to an amateur with very little experience?
If you’re planning a wedding and would like to have a chat, we’d love to hear from you.
Graham
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