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Just
Shoot Me
Photographers and videographers
by Weatherly Brewer
Choosing the best way to capture the memories of your wedding day
is no short order. These days, couples are faced with many decisions
regarding their photographer. Style, color and format are just
a few of the choices.
Aside from a regular photographer, the bride and groom must also
think about whether or not they will hire a videographer. Although
Uncle Dan may save you some money, he may not be the best choice
for lasting wedding memories. “The biggest advantage of videography
is that you get to relive the moment, because the day goes by so
quickly,” says Joe Klimek of Lazerpro Digital Media Group. “Also,
as the years go by, it is something to share with your children
and grandchildren.”
Wedding photographers and videographers can be very expensive,
though. However, as Bob Lambert of Bob Lambert Photography says, “You
get what you pay for.” Lambert adds that couples should ask
for references when hiring a photographer and prepare to meet him
or her face-to-face. “It’s important to meet the photographer
and see a lot of their work.” Adds Klimek, “A lot of
people just want to know the price, but really, they need to know
the value of the video. What’s the value of a video that
is half the price but is so poorly made that you never watch it?”
Here are some tips to help you decide without any regrets:
• Look early. Great photographers and videographers can be booked more than a
year in advance. No one will think you are a zealot if you get on the horn as
soon as possible.
• Visit the studio. Although checking the Web site is a good idea, keep in mind
that it is not likely that any photographer will display less-than-perfect work
on the Web. Browse through the photo collections, paying close attention to the
number of photos that you really like.
• Ask for references. Get a list of clients and contact them directly. You may
find that the one thing they loved about the photos/videos is something you don’t
care for, or vice versa.
• Decide on your style. Do you want portraits or candids? A photographer’s
background can usually tell you something about his/her approach. Is he or she
an artist? A photojournalist? Pick the person you feel comes closest to you in
style.
• Keep the price right. If you are like the majority of couples, your budget
is limited. Make sure your photographer has a suitable package for your budget.
Pay attention to any extra fees or costs you may not have considered at first.
Check your contract, then check it again.
• Is videography a must? Many married couples feel that their wedding was such
a whirlwind of nerves, excitement, family and friends, that major moments quickly
receded in memory. Wedding videos allow couples to enjoy their day for years
after the event.
• Watch some footage. Again, visit with your videographer and know what’s
included—or not included—in the package, e.g., DVD, editing, extra
copies, etc. Pay attention to details as you’re watching his samples. Does
the video include greetings from well-wishers? Did he capture the cake cutting?
It is important that the videographer finds the details of your wedding as valuable
as you do.
“Photographers and videographers are not competing,” says Klimek. “They
are doing different jobs and their styles should complement each other.” In
both cases, a smart consumer should be well informed. If you cover all of your
bases and ask the right questions, you’ll find a match that suits you perfectly. – SCB |
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