Time for round three, folks! In the last two blog posts we covered why you would want to hire a wedding photographer and why they charge what they do. This time around we're going to look at some strategies for working within your budget.
Now, a quick disclaimer. Not all of these tips are 100% effective. Sometimes a photographer simply can’t go as low as you need them to go, and that’s okay. If you’re realistic with your budget, you will find the right photographer for you. So here we go:
· Go to wedding shows. Wedding photographers will often offer lower prices and discounts to people who book them as the result of a show. Wedding shows are a great way for photographers to drive traffic to their business and they’re a great way for you to snag a great deal. Not only that, but wedding shows offer excellent opportunities to actually meet photographers and get to know their personalities before booking anything.
· Talk to photographers about your specific needs. A recent couple that I worked with had a budget between two of my determined package prices. Because they explained exactly what they wanted, we were able to adjust the higher package to fit their needs and stay within their budget. So if you want the full day of coverage but not the wedding album, just ask!
· Set a budget, and then share it. Ask the photographer if he or she would be willing to work within that, and what they'd be willing to do. You'd be surprised at how sympathetic and helpful a good photographer can be. Remember, the worst they can do is they say no.
· Always ask if a photographer is available! Whether you have a short engagement or your original photographer bailed on you, it’s tempting to throw in the towel and have Uncle Bob shoot your wedding, even though you know the photos won’t be great. But don’t give up! Sometimes you can get better deals with last-minute bookings. Why? Because if a photographer has an open date, they're not likely to fill it with a customer paying the full rate in just a few weeks. The downside is, of course, that it's difficult to find a good photographer just a few weeks out, especially on popular dates. So, while I wouldn’t recommend purposefully waiting and thereby gambling your wedding photos, don’t shy away from asking a professional photographer if he or she is available on late notice.
Overall, remain polite and understanding. I mentioned in a previous blog why photographers tend to cost such a considerable amount. There’s a reason for the price tag, and if you show your photographer that you understand this and respect their work, they’ll be more willing to work with you. Keep this in mind as you're shopping around.
Have some of your own tips and suggestions? Leave it in the comments! We'd love to hear from you.
Contributed by Professional Member of Puget Sound Wedding Professionals -- Jason Comerford
Jason Comerford Photography http://jcomerfordphoto.blogspot.com/
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