Wedding Photography Money Saving Tips
Article 7 in 20 on Save Thousands on Your Wedding
Wedding Photography Money Saving Tips
It's easy for wedding photography costs to quickly get out of hand, but there are ways you can have beautiful wedding photography and still stay within your budget.
Photography is an important part of your wedding, visually capturing the countless precious moments of your special day. You'll treasure these photos for years to come, but how can you enjoy beautiful wedding photography and still stay within your budget? Read on, dear bride!
Go with a Pro
Unless you know a very good amateur photographer, it's a good idea to hire a professional wedding photographer, but it may only be necessary for the wedding itself. Many wedding photographers offer a "ceremony only" package, which will save you money. Don't simply take the first photographer you interview; be sure to shop around, since rates and quality can vary widely. You may also want to check out students from a local photography school. Many are quite good, and their rates are very reasonable. Before hiring a professional, be sure to ask these questions (in addition to pricing and availability):
1. Do you have references I can contact?
2. Can I see your portfolio? (Many are available on the photographer's Web site)
3. How long does it take to get proofs back (and other items such as bridal portrait)?
There are other questions you'll want to ask that are more specific to your wedding, but these will give you a good starting point.
Nice Package
Choosing a photography package over individual items is also a money-saver. If there is something you really want that isn't included in the package, ask the photographer about the possibility of swapping out pieces. However; be careful about choosing the package. Sometimes choosing the smallest package is not your best bet, since you may end up wanting to purchase additional prints later.
Beware the Extras
You may be tempted to purchase a "deluxe" wedding album or framed wedding portrait, but these things add up. It's more cost-effective for you to purchase a wedding album or frame on your own.
Reception Shutterbugs
Have some friends act as photographers at your wedding reception. Choose a few people you trust to capture candid photos of the festivities. Some couples also opt to place disposable cameras on the tables at the reception so that your guests can get in on the fun of helping you preserve the memories of your reception.
Videography...by Your College Roommate
Instead of hiring a professional, have a friend or two videotape your wedding ceremony. Most of us know someone who has some skill with videotaping, and if you choose to have two friends do it, you can always have the best portions of each tape edited together after the wedding. You can also have a friend roam the reception with a video camera to collect video-preserved well wishes from your guests.
If you shop around, be specific about what you want, and enlist the help of friends, your wedding photography will be beautiful and memorable and still keep you within your budget.
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