Photographers I need advice

I don't think Juan's lower rates were because he was just starting out. I think his rates changes because of the sudden high demand. There are more reasons to raise rates than just demand, so we don't really know all of Juan's reasons. But, he's good enough that he can charge what he does and still get the number of weddings he wants.

I could be wrong though.

Yes, there are some photographers who offer specials when they are just starting out, but that doesn't mean that it's a great deal. They could just be bad photographers to begin with. It all comes down to what you like and if you like the photos that you see, it doesn't matter what skill level a photographer is at, as long as you like the photos and know you'll be happy with them, then do it.

I just sense some reserver since you are asking the question. That's why I would think twice about this offer.

Alright, thank you all so much for your comments, I really appreciate them. I will ask her to see more of her work, that is good advice.

As for the price, she is trying to make a name for herself in DW Photography, so, she is new at it. That is why she is only charging for the flights. You also have to remember that this price includes no pictures, just the digital negatives, so, she is not printing anything for me or giving me anything more than the negatives.

Also, we do have a budget, moving to a new city, where I don't have a job, buying a house and getting married all between March 9 and Oct 21 when we leave. So, money is tight.

I will look at more of her work though, I think that is a great suggestion.

Did you guys look at her other work or just the wedding gallery, there is also brides and grooms and another one, I think those are better.

i think she is ok...if those are her "money shots", none of them give me the chills that i get when i see some great photos which is not a good sign because she is putting her best on her site...what do her average pics look like.

also, i know ALOT of great photographers all had to start somewhere and charge alot less to get established. they paid their dues so now can charge what they want. i think it is possible to find that hidden gem that hasn't broken out yet, but just do not think this one is it.

I agree with the others - definitely look at 1 or 2 entire wedding albums, to see what ALL the photos look like. Also, this may be b/c of my computer, but some of her pics don't look properly focused to me. Jonathan, Jill, what do you think? That is my personal pet peeve when I see a bride's photography - if the photog doesn't use the correct camera setting, flash, etc., the pics can come out looking either dark, overexposed, or slightly blurry. It's not just the shot itself that's important, it's the quality of the overall pictures. I just saw some professional pics of a bride in my area, and I was shocked at how blurry or dark many of the photos appeared.

Anyway, there are some nice shots in your photographer's portfolio, like everyone else has said. One thing that some budget-conscious brides do (be careful with this, though) is go to a college or photography school, and ask the instructors if there are any students that they would recommend. Don't get a student photog that has never done a wedding, but you might find one that has a lot of talent, but is just somewhat "undiscovered". If you ask the instructors, I bet they would know who is best. It's just a thought, but again, see at least 1 or 2 full wedding albums from them first.

Someone also talked about finding that "hidden gem" - that's good advice. DH and I found a great photographer and booked her before she raised her prices, and also just as she was starting to switch over to digital, so we paid much less than what she is charging now. Keep looking around, go to bridal shows, ask other brides, and I bet you will find one that's awesome!

jules - no luck with the photographers i gave you? imho the photographers i referrred you to have stronger work. and they all said they could work within your budget. hope it works out.

Did u book PP?