How to Choose a wedding photographer - by Aspirations Photography

If your wedding memories are important to you, then please take a few moments to read the following. It will help you avoid having to "pick up the pieces" afterwards.

The photographic industry is not regulated. There are an increasing number of "cowboys" out there who have set up as wedding photographers. They feel that they can make some quick and easy money, and have little regard for morals, ethics or the law. A lot of false claims are being made, and they show images to couples that are not theirs, but have been taken illegally from other websites.

Professional photographers know how difficult and demanding wedding photography is (done properly). To be a good wedding photographer, one needs to have the right knowledge, equipment and experience. In addition, "people skills" are of considerable importance. Photography is also an art. Unless one knows about photography, it is difficult for the average person to know what is good or bad photography.

So, how do you ensure you get someone who is a good photographer and not end up having problems? The best way is to look for a member of a reputable professional organisation such as the British Institute of Professional Photography (BIPP), and the Master Photographers Association (MPA). These are acknowledged and respected, within the photographic industry, as the leading professional bodies for photographers in the UK. Members have to be full -time professional photographers who have attained an approved standard of work. They are also also bound by professional codes of conduct and practice.

A word of caution, a large number of "Mickey Mouse" photographic organisations with impressive sounding names have cropped up in recent years. Anyone can become a member of these by simply handing over some money. My elderly mother, who has never taken a photo, could become a member of these bogus organisations.

Some things to look out for -Are they full-time professional photographers or part-timers? How long have they been photographers? What experience and qualifications do they have? Do they use professional equipment? What happens if their camera equipment fails? Do they carry back-up equipment? Are they insured as photographers? Do they appear professional? What level of service will you get - before, during , and after the wedding?

Something to look for is style of photography. There are different styles such as Traditional, Reportage etc. Photographers generally tend to do one style. Make sure that it is what you want. Also, watch out for excessive digital effects. These are commonly used to hide poor photography.

Don't be taken in by flashy web sites. They may be interesting, but focus on the just the images as that is what you will be getting. Also, watch out for "gimmicks" such as "pre-wedding shoots", a few large prints thrown in, number of photographers, etc. These are not as important as the photography that will be provided on your wedding day.

Check that they are familiar with any religious and cultural ceremonies that will be taking place on your wedding. The photographer needs to be aware of what is important at Hindu, Sikh, Muslim and Christian weddings to ensure that he captures those moments.

Albums are also something to consider. There are different choices available such as the traditional type and also the contemporary "Story books". There are considerable variations in the quality, and therefore in the cost, of albums.

Make sure that you have a contract. This is essential to protect your interests. Everything agreed should be clearly stated on this, and please read the "small print." This will avoid you having to deal with problems afterwards.

You may ask all the right questions, in order to make an informed decision. However, for this exercise to work, you are entirely dependent on getting truthful information and answers to your questions. Unfortunately, there is a lack of integrity out there.

I Hope that this article has been useful for you. Your "feed-back" would be appreciated. If there is anything that you feel could be added to this article, to make it more useful to others, please post your comments on our Blog (under the category of INFORMATION.)

Qualified & Approved Professional Wedding Photographer