Beach Wedding Photography " Hire a Professional
Posted on 21. May, 2009 by quinn sugarlake in Photography
Beach wedding photography differs from general wedding photography in many ways.
Just because a photographer calls themselves a professional at wedding photography, doesn't mean they are qualified for all types of specialized wedding situations. Hiring the right photographer for your special day is perhaps the most important element in planning the perfect wedding. But how know which photographer to choose? Does it really matter? The answer to that question lies with another question. Would you allow any qualified surgeon to operate on you? What if they are the top surgeon in their field? Now let me ask you this. What if that surgeon is number one for brain surgery, but you need your tonsils removed; would you still want that surgeon? Probably not. Just because someone is an expert in a given field, does not mean they are an expert within a specific niche of that field. Now lets relate that scenario to your wedding. If you have been dreaming of the perfect beach wedding, then choose a photographer who specializes in beach themed weddings, not something else.
The images taken for your special day will become a permanent record of a singular moment in time, capturing the before, during, and after events that unfold in an unpredictable instant. There are no, Do-overs. Don't trust this important job to just anyone with a camera and a good price. Ask to see his or her portfolio, as well as recommendations from previous clients. Most of all, specifically ask for how much experience they have with photographing weddings that are held in a beach setting. Make a list of specific questions to ask and interview several wedding photographers before signing any contracts.
Some important questions to ask a potential photographer are:
When did you get into the wedding photography business?
Do you work with an assistant or alone?
Will the photographs be taken by you, or will an employee assigned to our wedding be taking the pictures?
What do you do if it rains, or the weather is otherwise poor?
What style of photography do you prefer to shoot? (Formal, traditional, photo journalistic, etc.)
What, if any, are the standard shots you take?
What can we, the bride and groom, do to make the photography at a beach turn out the best it can?
Why should I hire you instead of your competition?
Of all the possible beach shots to take, which one is your favorite?
Why did you move away from traditional wedding photography to specialize in beach wedding photography?
A beach wedding is your choice. Take a moment to consider why this is. Is it because you imagine you and your fiance in your dress and tuxedo, walking by the waters edge, silhouetted against a beautiful sunset? Is a sun-drenched mid-day or even morning scene with all of the beautiful scenery around you what you imagine? Are you dreaming of a comfortable indoor reception, with only the ceremony being held at the beach? Whatever your vision is, communicate them to your photographer so that you can achieve the best possible results. Working well together and communicating with your photographer is arguably the most important aspect for a successful photographic record of your special day.
