"Choosing Your Photographer" Lesson #3

Compare very carefully!!

I get so many brides that inquire into my services and I try to teach them what to look for in comparing photographers. You have to compare accurately and fairly.

If Studio A is charging $1500.00 for 6 (or more likely 4-6) hours of coverage. That means several things:

• The 6 hours is for wedding day coverage ONLY (usually). I have heard of additional hours ranging from $125.00-$250.00 per hour.
  
• If you want engagement, or bridal formal pictures that is extra. Some photographers will charge you $250.00 just for their time (some charge $125.00) for each additional session. That equals $500.00 for an engagement and formal bridal shoot PLUS the cost of any photographs.
• Want your bridal shower photographed? That's another $250.00 just for time.
• Oh, you want your bridal luncheon, final fitting, buying your shoes pictures, tux fitting, etc, etc, etc? That will be $250.00 for each event.
• Review the "package" contents carefully. More often than not, they will include the cheapest priced items. If you want to upgrade, then that's where they get you.
• So, you want to upgrade an album, etc...Sorry. Many photographers will not allow you to upgrade anything, period. IF they do, it is at a very high premium.
• So you need black & white photos for the newspaper announcements (engagement & wedding)...that is extra.
• Want your rehearsal and/or rehearsal dinner photographed? Oh, that's extra too.
• Want to add spot color on a B&W photograph? Extra...or they will allow you a certain number of photographs for special effects. Any more than the allowed number? Extra. Don't even inquire into other special effects...probably do not offer it.
  

Don't be fooled into what is being offered. Read everything carefully and ask a LOT of questions.

There is something even better. If you have questions about a "package" from a photographer, call me and I will be happy to go over it with you, AT NO OBLIGATION! Wow, how much better can it get!? No pressure, no nothing. If it is a good deal, I will tell you!