PHOTOGRAPHERS
EVENT PLANNING HOME
PHOTOGRAPHERS
Although cost is one of the factors to consider when selecting a photographer, be sure not to sacrifice quality to save a few dollars. Quality photographs will bring you a lifetime of memories of a once in a lifetime occasion. Try to obtain the best photographer that your budget allows.
WHEN TO START LOOKING
Since photographers are limited when it comes to the number of events they can
shoot on a specific day, it is wise to look for a photographer 9 to 12 months prior to the
event if possible. Some better photographers are booked up to 2 years in advance.
WHERE TO START LOOKING
Ask friends, relatives and work associates for recommendations. Numerous
resources are also available in the local yellow pages, on the Internet, and in local
publications as well. Start making a list.
HOW TO START LOOKING
Call the photographers on your list and inquire about date availability, prices, etc. and
ask that a brochure be sent to you. Some photographers also have examples of their
work available for view online. If there is no brochure available ask if it is
possible to meet with the photographer to see examples of their work and carefully look at
the quality of the photos. Do the people and the shots look natural? Does the
shot appear to be in focus? Was the photograph taken in proper lighting so you can
see the detail of the shot? Does the photographer shoot in the type of style that
you are looking for?
Photographers usually charge for their services in 1 of 3 ways and some charge by a combination of them; by the total number of shots taken (whether good or bad), by the package, or by the hour. Depending upon your budget you will have to decide which fee method best suits your needs. Personally, since you only have one shot (excuse the pun) at getting great shots of a once in a lifetime event I would rather pay more money for a better photographer who will get quality shots and opt for fewer photos if budget was a consideration.
In the case of a wedding, prior to the wedding day, make a list of the photos that you want to be certain to take, i.e. Bride alone, Bride with Groom, Bride with Parents, Bride with Attendants, Groom alone, Groom with Parents, Groom with Best Man, and so on. Be sure the photographer receives this list. Ask a friend (with list in hand) to assist the photographer in getting those shots on the event day.
In the case of a corporate or private special event, make a list of the photos you want be sure to get as well. The photos should illustrate the event from start to finish.
SMART QUESTIONS
During your conversations with the photographers you should explain what types of shots
you are most interested in, i.e. mostly formal, mostly candid, etc. and find out what
shots he/she recommends. Also, outline the "must have" photos that you
have in mind.
Remember, each photographer has different creative styles and capabilities and it is possible that their creative insight relative to "behind the scenes" candid shots, series shots, etc. may enhance the outcome of your photos shoot. However, be hesitant to contract a photographer who seems "fixed" on a specific style of photography that you are not thrilled about.
Looking at the photographer's albums and a thorough conversation with the photographer will help you determine if his/her style will match your expectations. Remember, personality is also an important factor in the selection of a photographer since he/she will be interacting with you and your guests throughout the event.
Following are some things that you may
want to find out during your conversations...
When looking at the albums, ask who took the photographs. If you like the style of
specific photographs you should be speaking directly to that person.
On an average, how many shots does the photographer take during an event?
How many hours does he/she expect to be on site?
Will the photographer you are speaking to actually be taking your photos?
What equipment does the photographer provide?
Does the photographer use an assistant? The use of an assistant allows more options relative to lighting angles in posed and formal photo shots. There is minimal need for an assistant if the majority of the shots are candid.
How are you charged? Are you charged based on the number of shots taken plus the selected photos, the selected photo package, for time and number of shots, etc.?
Depending upon the selected option, what will the total cost be and what exactly will it include?
Who selects the photos to be included in the package, you or the photographer?
How many proofs do you get to
view?
Does the photographer retain the negatives? If so this means that
you will end up paying the photographer each time you want a reprint. Although some
photographers will give you a song and dance about paper quality and processing quality or
"safeguarding" the negatives, it all boils down to profit. Some
photographers will give you the selected negatives or all of the negatives either as part
of the package or for a fee. Check the fees in advance.
If the photographer retains the negatives, how much does it cost to obtain reprints in the future? Get the cost in writing if you select a photographer who retains the negatives.
Does the photographer have the ability to add digitized special effects to selected photos? You may want to create a special photo memorializing your special event by enhancing or retouching the photo. If he/she has the ability, what are the costs?
Does the photographer have the ability to archive the photos on disc or CD? If so, what is the cost?
Does the photographer have any recent references or letters of recommendation that he/she can share with you?
CONTRACTS
Be sure that the details are clearly outlined, including the name of the person
who will be shooting the photos, locations and arrival times, number of shots, number of
proofs, a list of "must have" photos, the total cost, the additional costs for
reprints or to purchase the negatives, etc. as well as the cancellation/refund policies,
etc.
For added protection, paying with a credit card is not a bad idea either since it can give you significantly more leverage than when paying by cash or check should something go wrong.
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