Here we sit at the beginning of another silly season of bridal shows. The over saturation of this opportunity for couples to learn about wedding services is mind numbing. As Positive Images by Rettberg enters its golden anniversary year, it is time to reflect on the state of professional wedding photography in general.
To be blunt, it is badly damaged. The combination of digital technology, the economy, and a general feeling by the potential client, that it is just another commodity like their table favors has diluted what was once a very skilled profession.
Experience and client serviced have been side lined by economics alone. We all try to conserve in these uncertain times, but when selecting a wedding photographer, that investment becomes one that lasts more than a lifetime. To be sure, todays brides and grooms still see the value of "a photographer" but they are willing to accept far less ten they should.
When seeking a professional wedding photographer, always meet the person who will be taking the photographs. That sounds basically simple, but it always amazes how many times people do not know who their photographer will be.
Check their credentials... Do they belong to professional associations, and constantly update their skills. Study carefully the samples you see. Always request that the photographer show one complete wedding, as opposed to a bunch of random images from several weddings.Do they show a variety of indoor and outdoor settings. It is very different shooting in a dark reception hall as opposed to a bright sunny beach scene. How many years have they been in business, and how many weddings have they photographed. Do they have referrals from satisfied clients. Do they offer any kind of written guarantees. Do they have post wedding followup to help the client design their albums. What is the cancellation policy. What happens if the photographer requested becomes ill. Do they carry sufficient backup equipment. Can they offer a second qualified professional photographer if desired. How is delivery of the album handled. Do they offer any booking incentives.Study the personality of the photographer as you speak with the. Are they interested in what and who you are, or do they just tell you what they do period. Are they flexible in their pricing, and do they have payment plans that give you some leverage throughout the entire process.Use your gut, do you trust them and what they are saying. Everyone has the ability to weed out the phony. Make sure you use it. Do they have a knowledge of your ceremony and reception sites.
I could go on, but there is hopefully the challenge laid down for couples looking for exceptional professional wedding photography. It is a criteria that has led Bill Rettberg Jr. in his 42 years as a full time photographer.
As Positive Images by Rettberg enters its 25 years of existance, our hope is that clients of today hold all of their dealing with photographers to the standards mentioned in this article. One should expect no less
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