Yesterday I wrote about Jonathan Thorpe, an awesome Freelance Photographer based in VA. When my client’s budget is small, I have to go to my pool of awesome Freelance Photographers – in order for my client to have great photos that will treasure. It really does make sense – and here’s why.
There are some fabulous wedding photographers out there (I have featured a number on this blog). Their work is truly amazing and worth every penny that they charge. However, when a couple has a $5,000.00 budget, and the starting photography packages are $4,500.00 – it doesn’t make sense. After receiving the price shock, couple’s navigate through the pool of inexpensive wedding photographers. In that pool, there is an unusually high percentage of questionable photographers and product (red eye problems, uninteresting shots, bad focus, poor quality in general) – and the price (in my opinion) is high for the quality that you receive. To me, that really doesn’t make sense.
Freelance photographers have a fresh eye, are excited and motivated to do a great job for you – and can give a new and different prospective on things.
You have to be careful in choosing a photographer. It’s not an easy. In fact it takes more work – but in the end, will it be worth it? I’m guessing it will.
You need to look for the right things in their portfolio. Even if he/she is good, you don’t want to spend 2 hours of your reception taking pictures – because that will ruin a day. You need to be clear about what you expect – and you may have to explain weddings to him/her. A detailed timeline is a must so that he/she understands the day and the time allotment they have. Finally, you will need to work with someone who is willing to work under a solid contract (which most likely you will need to create). If they have references, that’s often a great place to start.
Everything needs to be given careful consideration
Did I say – not easy?
Also, there are Freelancers out there who have wedding experience but don’t have the client base. Often, they want to get their name out, and will do weddings for little money.
Just food for thought.
Happy snapping!
Special shanks to Jonathan Thorpe for the moving photograph