“My husband hates taking photos”
“I hate posing”
“Where is my photographer?!”
“It’s been over a year and I haven’t heard back from my videographer!”
When you are a wedding photographer/Videographer; you tend to hear many horrific stories and see some wild things from: vendors not showing up or showing up late or displaying
complete unprofessionalism can and will happen. Your wedding day is one of the most important days of your life, and capturing every moment is essential but a vendor can easily make your day or ruin it so essential is not enough. That's why choosing the right wedding photographer and videographer is such an important decision.
Hi, My name is Saman, a professional photographer/Videographer based out of San Diego (about me) and I have been working in the industry by myself and with other great studios and professionals for years now and have faced all sorts of wonderful weddings and some crazy stories in my time and I can tell you as an insider in the wedding photography and
videography industry. (My weddings) I'm here to share some inside tips on what you need to know before you book your wedding services; No self-promotion, simply the truth on how to make sure you avoid any red flags from vendors and how to make sure your wedding goes as perfect as it should.
Why this blog?
This blog series will be a few different segments going over legal essentials, style, and why they charge as much as they do, what about those gorgeous venues?! And what is the secret sauce to a great wedding that's fun, memorable, and with incredible energy?
Legal Topics
First and foremost, it's essential to ensure that your wedding photographer and videographer are licensed and insured. This protects you and your vendor in case of any accidents or incidents that may occur during the event. It's important to research the laws and regulations in your state or country to ensure that your photographer and videographer are complying with all necessary requirements. It's also essential to make sure that you have a clear and concise contract outlining all of the services, pricing, and delivery timelines. A contract protects both parties and helps avoid any confusion or misunderstandings down the line.
Style
Wedding photography and videography styles can vary greatly, from traditional and posed to documentary-style and candid. When selecting a wedding photographer or videographer, it's important to discuss your style preferences and ensure that they can deliver what you're looking for. You can ask to see samples of their previous work to get a better understanding of their style and ensure that it aligns with your vision. Additionally, it's important to communicate with your photographer and videographer about any specific shots or moments that you want to be captured on your wedding day.
Prices
Wedding photography and videography services can be costly, so it's essential to understand the pricing and packages available. It's important to discuss pricing upfront, so there are no surprises later on.
Many photographers and videographers offer different packages that include various services such as engagement photos, albums, and prints. Understanding what's included in each package can help you determine which one best fits your needs and budget. Keep in mind that sometimes the cheapest option is not always the best option. Investing in a quality photographer and videographer can ensure that your wedding memories are captured beautifully for years.
Venues
The venue you choose for your wedding can have a significant impact on your photography and videography. It's essential to select a location that provides ample natural light and allows for creative and unique shots. It's also helpful to choose a venue that has different backdrops and settings for your photographer and videographer to utilize.
Communicating with your vendor about the venue ahead of time can also help them plan and prepare for the day.
Secrets from an Insider
Finally, as an insider in the industry, I have a few secrets to share with you. First and foremost, communication is key. Make sure to discuss your vision and expectations with your photographer and videographer ahead of time. This ensures that everyone is on the same page and helps avoid any miscommunications. Additionally, it's essential to create a timeline for the day, so everyone knows where they need to be and when. This helps to ensure that your photographer and videographer capture all of the key moments of the day. It's also important to allow for some flexibility in the timeline, as unexpected moments and emotions can arise.
Another secret from an insider is to trust your photographer and videographer. They are professionals who have experience capturing weddings and know what shots and moments are important. Allow them to take the lead and be open to their suggestions and ideas. Finally, don't forget to have fun! Your wedding day should be a celebration, and your photographer and videographer will be there to capture all of the special moments.
Choosing the right wedding photographer and videographer is essential to capturing your special day's memories. By understanding legal topics, style, prices, venues, and insider secrets, you can ensure that you find the perfect vendor to capture your wedding day's magic. In the upcoming days, I will introduce you to each chapter in a fun way to really enjoy the planning process instead of hating it.