Beautiful Moments, Beautiful Prices: Saving on Photography
Photo by vanz
If you want those gorgeous prints taking on your big day, you’re going to have to pay for them. But just because a photographer slaps down a price list doesn’t mean there isn’t room for negotiation. Here are a few ways to save on wedding photography.
It’s a good idea before you do anything to talk to professional photographers in your area. Get to know the different styles available to you and how much they charge. When meeting with photographers, don’t base your decision on price alone. Look at their portfolio. This will help you decide what you do and don’t like.
Ask for references from past clients. This will provide you with an insight into their professionalism and personality that may make or break the decision for you.
Book your photographer as early as you can. You will have more bargaining power, as they probably won’t have other jobs lined up so far in advance. Booking the photographer early also means one less thing on your “To Do” list!
Often a photography package will include a certain number of developed photos in an album and digital copies of all the photos taken on a CD. If you don’t already have them, definitely negotiate digital copies into your photography contract. You can look through the snaps later and get the ones you want developed using a cheaper service. You could scrap the photographer’s album altogether and make your own leaving you to define the kind of album that you want.
If you have an amateur photographer in the family, it may be a good idea to ask them if they will take your wedding pictures. Just make sure you have a look at photos they’ve taken and check out their gear, an SLR camera is a must.
Hiring a photography student can be a great way to find a low cost, motivated and talented photographer for your wedding. Check at your local college. Ask for their portfolio and have a few sample shots taken before making any deal.
The emergence of digital cameras has driven the price of film cameras way down. This allows you to place one or two film cameras on each table at the reception and have your family and friends snap away. You can get great candid photos your photographer may miss and it provides your guests with a source of entertainment as they vie to see who will get the best shot.
