(This entry was inspired by a heartfelt email we received from a client)
Being invited to photograph a wedding is not just about signing a contract or getting a new account. There are so many options out there for wedding photography, so when a couple invites us to be their photographers it is something more than just a business transaction. It is an honor and a privilege and we take this work very seriously. In essence, we are entrusted to capture the moments and beauty of a celebration of life and love, and in order for us to do this effectively we give all of our attention and skill into our efforts. It’s standard for us to go the extra mile to make sure the bride and groom are taken care of, not because it’s in the contract but because that’s just how we work.
Since we’ve begun photographing weddings we have met some really remarkable people. The initial consultation is almost like a first date, and will definitely set the tone for the relationship. When we opened the door to let them in we were all strangers, but as they left there was a budding friendship in the midst. The very nature of the work requires us to form a relationship with all of our couples, their families and friends. When we arrive as the bride and groom are getting ready, they are surrounded by only their closest friends and family… and us. There needs to be a comfortable level of trust, acceptance and personal familiarity, which is impossible to attain in a standard business transaction.
The best piece of advice out there for finding your ideal wedding photographer(s), other than finding a style that you like and pricing that matches your budget, would be to seek out someone whose personality clicks with yours. Can you picture yourself spending 8 plus hours working with them on your wedding day, plus countless hours on album and order fulfillment?
Any wedding photographer or any wedding professional, for that matter, who loves their job is going to feel the same way about client relationships. The ones that don’t are the salesmen of the industry and they will probably get you a good price, but at what cost?
The images below are representational of a bride and groom comfortable with their wedding photographers.
