Photo
Time has a way of playing with our memories. Even the memories of special days can begin to fade as the years pass by. That's why it is so important that a record of your wedding day be preserved permanently by a professional photographer who knows how to discover and capture the treasured moments of your day.
Selecting Your Photographer
Quality photographers are usually booked months in advance. If possible, you should begin your search for a photographer six to nine months before your wedding date. Don't depend on a friend or family member to take candid shots. Even though they may have good intentions, there is no substitute for a professional.
The wedding photographer you choose should be someone with whom you feel comfortable and whose photographic style you admire. Ask to see samples of previous work by the photographer, including albums of recent weddings.
Once you have selected your photographer you will want to work out a contract agreement. The agreement should name the person who will actually photograph your wedding. It should also include such items as the date and hours to be worked, overtime fees, attire of the photographer and the cost of the complete photographic package.
The cost of the package will be determined once you and your photographer have discussed the types of pictures you wish to have and how you want your album to look.
Prior to the Wedding Day
By looking at a number of different wedding albums you will begin to get a feel for what you want in your album. Discuss your ideas with your photographer. There are many options open to you, but the trend in this area is toward a more candid look in albums. You will, of course, want the formal shots of you and your groom, parents and grandparents and the wedding party, but the impromptu shots are often the ones most remembered.
The Wedding Day
On your wedding day there will be many people who will want to share this special time with you and your groom. Make an effort to have your posed shots taken as quickly as possible after the ceremony, so your guests will not have to wait unnecessarily for your arrival at the reception.
Most importantly, remember that this is your wedding day. Relax, smile and enjoy! You will be creating memories that you will share and cherish for years to come.
Get the Whole Picture Before Selecting a Photographer
Your wedding photos will remain among the most treasured mementos of your special day, bringing years of pleasure. Because of the value associated with your photographs, it's essential that you thoroughly research photographers before choosing one. To help ensure that feelings, expressions and special moments of your wedding are captured for all time, we offer the following guidelines:
• Begin looking for a photographer 9-12 months in advance of your wedding date, since many are booked well ahead.
• Many photographers today have Web sites - save time by looking on those sites for sample work, packages, availability, etc.
• Meet with several photographers to get a sense of different styles, as well as a feel for how you and each photographer might "click."
• Confirm who will actually be shooting your wedding, as many photographers have assistants. What time will they be arriving? What time will they leave? And will they be employing assistants?
• Ask to view sample albums from a recent wedding.
• Find out what packages are available and the costs of each.
• Are the proofs included in the package?
• Is an album included?
• How much is extra time?
• How much is extra film?
• How many photographs do you end up with?
• What type of film will be used? Will the studio be shooting in color, black & white, or both?
• Once you've selected your photographer, provide him or her with a list of "not to be missed" shots.
• Don't hesitate to ask questions. Get your answers in writing, and ensure that nothing is left unclear.
Photography: a matter of style
Just what is your photographic style? Do you prefer posed shots — the classic, just what it sounds like, staged photos with various arranged groupings of you and your bridal party? Or are you more of a traditionalist? You've got a plan (a list, in this case), and you're sticking to it.
You've determined all of the shots you just can't miss — and relayed this to your photography professional early on. Or perhaps you prefer the photojournalistic style — one that's utterly unique to your celebration, with spontaneously captured moments telling the story of your wedding day . as it happens.
Of course, you can always choose a combination of styles — or maybe you'll just want to throw in a couple of variations to complement your mode of choice. Your photographer can help guide you in your decisions, and whatever photographic path you choose to follow, your day is sure to be beautiful in pictures!