Photographers - provided vs chosen

HEATHERMC24 · 08-13-2008, 10:16 AM

Hello
I have been reading the posts regarding photographers and was wondering if someone could give me some advise. We are looking at the Azul Sensatori - in Mexico but up until reading these posts I would have just gone with the local (provided) photographer.

Can someone advise why they would be against this? Do they generally not do a good job?

Also - what is the cost comparison? How much would you spend on the hotels' provided photographer vs someone you choose yourself? Are there other issues to consider (eg work permits)?

Thanks all!

Kathie · 08-13-2008, 10:26 AM

Welcome to the forum. I'm sure you'll get lots of advice on here.

photographerShay · 08-13-2008, 11:32 AM

Quote:

Can someone advise why they would be against this? Do they generally not do a good job?

If I were you I'd ask to see the portfolio of the photographer at your resort/the local photographer. Then compare it with other destination photographers to see if you feel confident with their ability. Once you find the style you like, obtain pricing sheets and compare prices after that

adias.angel · 08-13-2008, 11:38 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HEATHERMC24

Can someone advise why they would be against this? Do they generally not do a good job?

Also - what is the cost comparison? How much would you spend on the hotels' provided photographer vs someone you choose yourself? Are there other issues to consider (eg work permits)?

Hi and Welcome! :)

The problem you will find with Azul and Karisma hotel chains is that they will either charge you an outside vendor fee ($500) or if you select from their preferred list they will charge the photographer who will in turn pass it on to you. In the Riviera Maya forum (or was it the photo forum?) there was another bride talking about just this thing that she ran into with Karisma where her photog had a separate price list for these hotels.

As far as quality and costs, I think it depends on the photographer. Some of the hotels hire in some great ones and some not so great ones. I have seen some decent photogs in all price ranges.

Also it is going to depend on your taste; photojournalist or traditional style. We looked at a lot of photogs but one look at Del Sol's photos was enough to sell my FI and I to set almost 1/2 our wedding budget aside for wedding photos & TTD photos. (He is so in love with the TTD's

)

I see you already have this question out on the Azul Sensatori thread but feel free to post back here if I can answer other questions for you. I have to say that the photographer part was probably one of the hardest things we have had to decide so far.

Carla

J.Monet Studios · 08-13-2008, 03:10 PM

The best thing to do, in my humble opinion, is to find a photographer or examples of a photographer's work that you absolutely LOVE.

Then, based on what you want achieved, research both local photographers (in/around your destination city) as well as destination pros from around the U.S., etc.

Gather up all of your pricing information (photographers will usually email you a general estimate or quote based on your needs).

Then, it's also always a good idea to get references. Narrow down your list to a point, then talk to photographers, at least, by phone to feel out their personality to see how well it will mesh with your own and what you're looking for in terms of style and imagery. Very important to have a good vibe with your photographer!

Weigh out all your pros and cons, pricing information and additional details. You may find, in the end, that not all destination photographers are out-of-this-world expensive ... even if they aren't based in your destination location area.

Hope some of that helps! Best of luck in your search! :)

Evan Baines · 08-13-2008, 09:38 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by HEATHERMC24

Hello
I have been reading the posts regarding photographers and was wondering if someone could give me some advise. We are looking at the Azul Sensatori - in Mexico but up until reading these posts I would have just gone with the local (provided) photographer.

Can someone advise why they would be against this? Do they generally not do a good job?

Also - what is the cost comparison? How much would you spend on the hotels' provided photographer vs someone you choose yourself? Are there other issues to consider (eg work permits)?

Thanks all!

Here's my honest advice that will probably go against the grain:

If you don't see a difference between the provided photographers and those that you might consider bringing in, then don't spend the extra money. Photography is an extremely subjective thing, and while having a certain photographer at one's wedding may be worth five figures to one bride, it might not be worth five hundred to another.

Its pretty much a given that a local of comparable quality will always win on price vs. bringing in talent. The question is whether there are locals available for your date and location that offer the style and quality that you want.

Look at the images and decide what's important to you! :)

Good luck!

adias.angel · 08-14-2008, 07:07 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Evan Baines

Here's my honest advice that will probably go against the grain

You may go against the grain but you are 100% correct. It is very subjective, in the end you have to go with what makes sense and can fit in your budget. Most of the time budget wins.

For us the decision came when we realized we only want immediate family and VERY close friends to come to Mexico with us. Which ment that there would be over 200 people back at home (big families on both sides) who would want to know every detail of the wedding. We chose Del Sol because they captured the day almost like a storybook which will help us share our day with family at the AHR.

I hope all of this helps.