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Super Shoots

by Claire Bullivant

First things first, you can maximise your chances of getting some really great shots by hiring a good photographer / videographer. So make sure you adhere to our top ten tips for your wedding day super shoot.

1. The power of references should never be underestimated. Start by asking your friends and family for any referrals. If your friends were happy with their photographer, look at their album and see if it meets your needs. If you like what you see, you will probably be happy with that studio as well. After getting referrals from your friends, check out photographer websites. Although you shouldn’t choose a photographer strictly from what you see on their website, it can certainly help you eliminate some photographers you don’t want.

2. Don’t make your choice based on price alone. With all products and services, there is always a cheap alternative. But remember, you get what you pay for. The best photographers don’t come cheap.

3. Ask your photographer if their photographic style is contemporary, traditional, photo-journalistic or a combination of various styles. Some older studios may have a very entrenched traditional style and like to control the posing and lighting to create technically perfect photographs, whereas some other photographers rarely pose a photo. The vast majority of experienced wedding photographers are capable of creating both traditional and contemporary images to meet the needs of any couple.

4. Ask your photographer if the package is for a defined number of hours or for the duration of the wedding day. Many studios offer “all day” coverage, which translates to photography of the bride getting ready through to the end of the reception. Ask how many shots will be taken on the day and how many will be included in your wedding album or available on the web. Check also the cost of extra prints. Then get a quote for the whole ‘package’ (including the album) as this will make it easier to compare companies.

5. Ask your photographer if they belong to any professional photographic association or have any professional credentials. Like so many professions, trade associations are a way for members to stay current with the latest trends, styles and techniques through continued education. Likewise, there are numerous associates, bachelors and masters degree programs available to photographers as well. Photographers who have achieved high levels of education and / or been certified by an association have proved they are the best in their field. Remember, anyone with a camera can call themselves a professional photographer. Only those with real skill will have a photographic degree or certification.

6. Although you may be no expert, you should know what type of equipment your photographer will be using during your event. You will probably find you are more particular about it than you think. For example, there are advantages to both digital and film you may want to consider. Both produce high quality images, but some say film produces better pictures when enlarged. Others contend that digital pictures are easier to manipulate and produce. Check your photographer has backup equipment in case his or her original equipment fails. Flashes, lenses and cameras should all come in multiples. Extra batteries, film and memory cards are also a must.

7. Ask about cancellations or backup photographers in the event of unforeseen circumstances and your photographer misses your wedding. People do get sick and wedding photographers are no exception. Check that there are contingency plans in place.

8. Make sure the photographer you are dealing with is the one that will be there capturing your special moments on your big day. It’s imperative you feel relaxed and comfortable in their presence. After all, your photographer will be there sharing some of your most intimate moments with you.

9. Ask whether your photographer will be bringing any assistants. Most photographers cannot possibly do everything by themselves. Assistants can be invaluable, especially when it’s necessary to move from one location to another. Also don’t forget to ask whether you will need to feed your photographer and his or her assistants. The photographer is usually the first one on the job and the last one to leave. Unless fed, you cannot expect him to retain his concentration to complete the job properly.

10. Finally, a written contract should be agreed and signed and any receipts for deposits should be kept safe. Remember if you find someone you really like, book them quickly because good photographers can get booked up to two years in advance. Then relax in the knowledge that you’ll have picture perfection on your big day!