Wedding Photography - To Hire or Not to Hire A Pro

Years ago,when couples got engaged- they would all start their planning in basically the same way. Date,venue,professional services etc. It was a given that you would hire a well experienced photographer to capture your wedding day. After all, film was in- and there was no such thing as 'instant approval' or 'instant proofing' the way that digital photography offers now. There seemed to be far more 'fear' in couples worrying that their wedding photographs would not 'turn out'.

Then along came digital photography. At first this was regarded as more of a mystery- with often poor results. I would often just use digital cameras for reception and candid coverage rather than using it for the entire event. When talking to couples (potential clients) at wedding shows- i would still be able to sell my services on good quality exposure, lighting, posing and all around reliability.

Everything has changed! Now couples assume that all photography is virtually foolproof since one is able to view the image on the camera screen- so almost a monkey can do it! The value of having an experienced professional photographer has decreased significantly... but should this really be the case?

If you are a newly engaged couple trying to decide on a professional photographer or just hiring a student or friend, consider this:
Digital photography often gives labs (or home printers) less leeway when improperly exposed. Getting fill light, highlights and overall exposures is key to a great image- and I have seen far to many wedding photographs 'burned out' for poor exposure.

And then there is posing. What makes a great wedding photograph? Sure, capturing those candid moments is key to the overall feel of the wedding day- but those romantic images of the couple, or those great angles of the bride do not come from just shooting 1000 shots throughout the day... they come with professional direction. When I am asked if I pose couples, I like to explain that I 'guide them' to get the best images possible. So often I hear that I was able to give them images that flatter them where other photos of them have failed. This comes from years of experience (and study) in the areas of light, angles and expression.

Other things to consider:
Things can and do go wrong. Everything can break- and most pros carry back up equipment to cover this.
Professional retouching- makes those 9/10 images become 10/10.
Timing of the day. Use a professional photographers experience to help you plan your wedding day to run smoothly.
Capture the details of your day. All that hard work in planning should be remembered in great images.
Options with the images after the wedding. Great, now you have the images from your wedding- how do you want to display them. Go over your options with a pro!

I hear so often from couples that I meet that have had friends or relatives use non professional photographers for their wedding, list all of the regrets from their choice. It is one day to remember in your life, and what better way to remember it than in pictures.

I would love to discuss your wedding plans. Follow wedding photography by David Briggs Photography for more details and to view my portfolio.

Don't skimp out on the photographer, after the wedding you will never regret having a full collection of amazing images from your day.
David Briggs