What wedding photographers want to tell you, but can’t

Most wedding magazines will give you a list of questions to ask a wedding photographer. Stuff like: “Can you describe your style? What equipment do you shoot with?”

Let’s be real: Those questions are boring. And you probably don’t  care about the answers anyway.

So I surveyed some brides and photography friends, and all those things we really want you to know.

Groom Solomon and bestman David take a photo in the bar

How do I pick a good photographer when there are hundreds listed in my area?

Groom Solomon and his bride Julie Bukirwa protocol manager pose for a photo

First, look for a forum that appeals to your style. Obviously, if you’re an Offbeat Bride, you’re in the right place  I receive my best clients through the Offbeat Bride Vendor Guide.

Once you’ve got a few favorite photographers, narrow it down to a handful of favorites, and set up a time to meet them.

How many photos do I get?

KCCA boss Jennifer Musisi with the bride and groom

The wedding photographers I surveyed typically deliver 50-100 photos for every hour of coverage they provide. Four hundred photos may seem like a lot, but your wedding photographer is preserving all those little details and the moments you missed while you were mingling.

I love those photos with the blurry backgrounds. How do you get that look?

You’re talking about shallow depth of field. Photographers get that look by using professional lenses that are able to focus tightly on the subject.

Why is wedding photography so freakin’ expensive?

Weddings are typically organized by people who are not show business types and who’ve never been in the thick of planning or running an event.

Wedding photography seems like easy money  work for one day and rake in the cash, right? But most full-time wedding photographers cost Labour, albums, repair,  and studio expenses many photographers end up making less than the minimum wage for the first few years of their career.

I keep hearing about “shoot and burn” photography. Sounds painful. What is it?

The bride in all splendour and glamour

Actually, it can be kind of painful. “Shoot and burn” is slang for photographing a wedding and burning it straight to CD without post processing.

It’s usually super cheap for a reason.  Bad lighting isn’t corrected, distracting elements aren’t removed and zits remain proudly on display.

Digital files may be important to you, but find a full-service photographer who will edit the images and print reference proofs before handing over.

Should I tip my photographer?

For photographers, “Tips are never expected but are always appreciated.”

Hopefully this clears up some burning questions about wedding photography — and makes it a little bit easier to find the perfect photographer for your wedding day.

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