Wedding Photography and Videography

How do you choose a vendor for your wedding photography and videography? Well, my first thought would be to ask around for word of mouth recommendations. If you've heard good things about a photographer or videographer then that's the one I'd check out first.

If word of mouth doesn't turn up a few good candidates, there is always the classifieds or the internet.

As I've stated in many other parts of this site, you should keep your wedding notebook with you so that you can jot down important information about each vendor you are considering. And when you compare prices, be sure you are comparing apples to apples.

Photographers and videographers are expensive. The price runs from $1,500 for a very small package to $5,000 or more. These are memories of a lifetime that will be captured and so I would definitely advise having it done professionally in one or the other format. Don't penny pinch so much that you don't have at least your photos or video done in a professional manner.

When deciding on wedding photography or videography remember the BUDGET! If you would like to have both, you might consider having one done professionally and one done by someone in your family or by a friend. The quality won't be the same by any means, but your memories will be captured non the less.

Be sure the vendor only does one wedding a day so that you are sure to have them there when you need them without rushing.

Be sure that the photographer or videographer you are interviewing is the one doing the actual shoot. If not, ask to meet with the proper person.

It is becoming more and more popular for the photographer to offer the cd with all the pictures of your wedding for a fee. These will be untouched, so the quality will not be as good as finished touched up photos, but if the extra charge is in the budget, you may want to buy the cd. Ask!

Be sure that the contract is specific and that it covers deposits, overtime fees and the refund policy. Be sure you understand the complete package of merchandise and services before signing.

If you choose to have the wedding photography done by someone who is not a professional, I have a checklist for a photographer so that you are sure to capture the pertinent photos.

What ever choices you make, be sure that you have thought it through thoroughly and remember that you can come back in the future to purchase other elements of the package that you may not be able to afford today. Please don't go into debt trying to capture your wedding memories. They are important, but by no means are they worth the financial burden. 

Wedding Jewelry and Gifts 

Wedding Photography to Real Wedding Photos 

First Steps to Wedding Planning 

Printable Wedding Charts

Keeping It All Together List

Links to Other Sites of Interest 

Danielle Aucoin Photography 

Divine Portraits 

Exxtravent, Event Photography and Videography