Where to find a DW Photographer?

[Christine]

I chose someone near the area we got married in. we got a great referral from Leigh Miller who I trust with many photo decisions and it just worked out that he happened to be in Northern California, otherwise I wouldn't have minded flying someone in, but in our situation there was a ton of amazing photogs located in the SF Bay area.

 

Because we live 3,000 miles away we didn't meet Matt until a few days before the wedding but e-mailed back and forth a few times and watched his website for new updated photos. We are incredibly happy with our photog decision

[KLC77]

We have chosen a photographer from Riviera Maya based on her photographs and her blog. I fell in love with the energy captured in her photos and had to have her. When our original trip to St. Lucia had to be changed due to an unexpected increase in costs I immediately chose Riviera Maya so I could have the photographer I wanted. I'm excited that she is familiar with the area. I think that's a big plus...

[BePhoto]

local vendors or flying in vendors....... I think there are advantages and disadvantages to both.

 

But in my opinion, this should not even play into the minds of clients.

 

In my opinion, the style of work is the number one most important thing when a bride picks a photographer.

 

I believe the argument locals have that they know the location, and that they know the "light" is invalid. As a press photographer who constantly finds himself if different situations on a daily basis, I actually find the best photos come from events covered for the first time, with a new, fresh eye. If I could do something about it, I would never shoot a wedding at the same location twice.

 

Knowing the "light" may be a valid argument against the more traditional wedding photographer who is used to the same locations, same lighting scenes, and does not know how to adapt to changes, but this is not a valid point to any photojournalist.

 

But some points are true... knowing the overall area can be great for locals when weather changes for the worse, or other situations arise.

 

but I also believe that shooting at the same locations (whether local or destination) is a huge draw-back. Things become routine when this happens, and many photographers then learn to take photos only as the routine suggests. When any photographer does this, they miss out on many opprotunities.

 

Of course, like I said -- I am biased though. -- But I honestly cant imagine shooting the same locations (or for that matter, only shooting weddings).

 

I work at my best when I am thrown into a completley new situation. -- But of course, this is influenced by my background in news/media.

 

 

-- As for the workflow -- Even for my local clients, all image selections, proof viewing, ordering, etc. is done online, so no need for face to face meetings there. Both my clients and I find it much easier that way!

 

-- One more note -- Personality is also a key factor for the wedding industry. My clients hire me because they want someone laid back, and able to capture everything without being "in your face". They dont want to be overwhelmed with countless photo-ops, and want to focus on enjoying the magic of their day.

 

Many in the wedding industry (usually older photogs) - have a more traditional approach that is filled with posed photos and standard "table shots" and such. And others still have more of a modern approach, but their personality is a more "in your face" personality.

 

Of course, I think the laid back approach is the best, but ultimatley, it is the brides decision -- but photographers personality can seriously effect how the day goes - and should be taken into account.

 

 

Although all brides have a whole world of photographers to choose from, DW brides really are the only ones who exersize their options - as most local brides use local vendors. - Often the thought of looking outside the local area for most home brides never enters their mind! - It's a shame too, because it can really limit their options!