• Section 3
• Why are photographers so sensitive about guests taking pictures?
• What about disposable cameras? 
• What happens if the photographer has an emergency or a problem with the equipment?
• How do we maximize our photographic investment?

• What happens at the end of the appointment?

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Why are photographers so sensitive about guests taking pictures?
When "the photographer is trying to work quickly through a series of formal pictures, a snap-shooter might slow the process. A problem arises when there are several cameras aimed at a formal group - the subjects will be looking at different lenses. The diverted attention will ruin the professional's picture. Or, if the professional is using a light-sensing trigger device ("slave") on a second flash, other flashes will trigger this flash, ruining the pictures [that you are paying for] and wasting battery power. There are many other reasons why a professional might ask others to refrain from picture taking during formals. On the other hand, many guests find snapping a few pictures a pleasant part of attending weddings, so it should not be a big deal for your professional to be relaxed and let people snap away when formals are over. Ideally, guests should show respect for the bridal party and photographer and put down their cameras during the formal photos."¹

"The guest's flash may also cause eyes to be closed for the pro's shot (which you are paying for). Also, some churches prohibit flash during the ceremony. Guests' flashes in this time are not only distracting. They also spoil the wonderful existing-light shots your photographer may be striving for. If guests behave with consideration and manners when using their cameras, there will be no problem."²  

Carol: All the above is true.  I ask that if guests are shooting around me, they wait and shoot before or after.  Once this is established, I find that they will work with me instead of against me.  The short time it takes to be courteous keep the atmosphere pleasant and accommodating.  Of course, if the wedding couple has any preference on this issue, I will work within their parameters, since it affects their pictures.  If the couple knows of specific photographic fiends they should feel free to talk to them privately if they think it will be a problem  On the other hand, if they let me know (and introduce me to) the person who is essentially a "second camera", we can make sure we work together and not spoil each other's shots.Top

What about disposable cameras? 
"The single-use cameras with built-in flash (required, since most receptions are indoors), are good for the 5-7 foot range. They work best for guests taking snapshots of other guests. In my experience at weddings where these cameras were distributed, the wedding couple later reported to me that one or two always get inadvertently carried off by guests, and of those remaining, about 40-50% of the shots are printable (others are underexposed or blurred). With the cost of developing and printing, figure $17-20 per camera. The disposables ARE NOT a substitute for professional coverage."²  

"If you have already devoted adequate resources to your professional coverage in photography and video, the disposables are a nice adjunct and will give you another slant on the wedding. Just make sure the guests know how to activate the flash and where to deposit the used cameras. If your photography budget is tight, better off devoting that extra $200 to your pro coverage."² Top

What happens if the photographer has an emergency or a problem with the equipment?
"Professionals are part of a network of photographers, and do have many people they can call in emergency. No doubt as your wedding approaches you will have many far more significant worries. Let your photographer manage this problem."^{1 "}Most have a contract provision that says, in effect, that in such instance they will attempt to get a substitute, but that their liability is limited to a refund. "²

In either case, "realize that all the details of your wedding involve an element of risk [and] photography inherently involves an element of risk and speculation due to its technical nature. You can lessen the chance of problem by booking a competent photographer and clearly communicating your event information and expectations.  But mess-ups happen. Film jams. Labs ruin film. Cameras break. Most photographers are very sensitive to customer perceptions and will try to remedy the situation or compensate you in some way."² Top

How do we maximize our  photographic investment?

• "Establish a win-win relationship with your photographer.

• List the essential and important people to be photographed.

• Be on time for your portrait sessions.

• Insist that your wedding party and family members be on-time

• Tell them how important your pictures are and that you consider cooperation a personal favor to you.

• Ask your guests (or have the best man do it) not to interfere with the pro when he's doing group shots and formals.

• Most importantly, ask your photographer, "What can I do in terms of cooperation to help YOU do the best job for US?""² Top

What happens at the end of the appointment?
"By now you've probably spent a good deal of time with the photographer. His time is money, the same as yours. Realize that in the long run someone has to pay for the hours each photographer spends as a consultant. Keep his (and your) expenses to a minimum by going to the meeting with the photographer prepared to leave a deposit to confirm the date. Before you do, however, you may want to assure yourself of a few more last-minute details."³

"Find out the photographer's policy if the date of your wedding is changed and he/she's not available on the alternate date. Find out, too, what the policy is for an unforeseen cancellation of the date. At this stage of the game, if you've really taken the time to get  into some of the above questions, you HAVE to know whether or not this photographer is for you."³

"If the photographer IS for you, if the photographer IS available, and if you're convinced that it's worth the price...then make the commitment and rest assured that this is undoubtedly one of the best and most intelligent decisions you've made in planning your wedding!"³ Top

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