 photography
Long after the last piece of cake has been eaten and your honeymoon bags are unpacked, wedding photographs will provide a lasting record of your big day. However, choosing the right photographer can be a confusing process. Follow these essential tips from expert wedding photographer Tim Cole* to ensure you end up with a wedding album to treasure for years to come.
Which photographer?
- When interviewing a photographer, ask to see some of his or her recent work and ensure the person you are talking to is the person who will be taking your pictures. It’s also worth making sure the person behind the lens is an experienced wedding photographer and not a studio apprentice – experience is important.
- In your discussions, ask the photographer how they work – unobtrusive or up close and personal? This is particularly important in the ceremony and at the reception. A good photographer helps the day run on time and doesn’t get in the way.
- Try to schedule a visit with the photographer to the wedding location and at the same time of day the ceremony will be held. This will help you all know what to expect and make the “shoot” run much more smoothly.
- Don’t forget to plan a wet weather location, too. Your photographer will need some studio lights for inside shots.
Different packages
Photographic services come in all shapes, sizes – and prices. Some of the variables include the hours a photographer will stay, if digital or film is used, how many black and white images you like? Traditional album, digital album or wedding book? It’s enough to make anyone’s head spin and debating the various possibilities is beyond the scope of this article. However, the key point is to satisfy yourself with exactly what you are getting and what you are paying. That way there will be no nasty surprises.
What style?
Choosing the style of pictures you want is as personal to you as your wedding dress and is something you should discuss at length with your photographer. You can also get ideas by checking out friends’ albums, visiting websites and looking at photographers’ portfolios. There are three main styles:
- Documentary/reportage. This style allows the day to flow without too much interruption by the photographer. Expect candid and natural-looking photos. Some black and white is suited to this style.
- Traditional is a style that makes you look like the bride in a magazine. Some acting skills are needed! This takes more time and the photographer will have their own ideas and style. Talk to the photographer before the day to work out what suits you.
- Glamour is all lights, cameras, action! More fuss and more time away from guests is involved but you will be the star of your own fairytale. It helps if you are a natural in front of the camera.
Planning the shoot
Give the photographer a list of “must-have” pictures. You can even have a friend help organise this part of the picture-taking. With all your relatives and friends in one place at one time, it’s a unique opportunity to take some beautiful photos. It’s a long day, so some group photos can be taken at the reception if time is an issue earlier on. If you like your photo taken from a certain side let the photographer know.
Showing off
Photo and digital albums or photo books are the best way to show off your pictures. If “scrapbooking” is your thing, why not consider putting an album on the gift list and doing it yourself. Remember to keep all the invitations, place tags, pressed flowers etc – in future years they will become special memories.
Increasingly, photographers are offering the option of a website from which guests can order copies of pictures. For the interstate and overseas people this can be very useful. However, compare the cost with having your photos put on CD and doing it yourself.
Cherished Images – beautiful wedding photography
0402 094 095
www.cherishedimages.com.au
Darlene Andrews – candid and natural photography
0414 670 787
www.darleneandrews.com.au
Diamond Photography – specialists in Sutherland Shire weddings
9526 8288
www.diamondphotography.com.au
IMAGE Professional Photography – natural wedding photography
9542 7312 / 0414 963 565
www.imagephoto.com.au
Insight Photography – photography with passion
9567 6468 / 0414 909 666
www.insightphotography.com.au
Jetty Blue Photography – like you, like nothing else
9575 7542 / 0414 412 069
www.jettyblue.com.au
NKD’s Photography – for you to cherish forever
0422 159 425
www.nkdsphotography.com.au
Snappytim Photography – fabulous photos
0424 287 495
www.snappytim.com.au
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