Amateur Destination Wedding Photographers

[bitohoney]

I am getting married in Fiji next May, got my wedding invitations out yesterday. Hip Hip Hooray! I am so incredibly excited.

I have decided that I do not want to use a local photographer, b/c there are only about 3 well known photographers in the islands. Flying someone in is extremely expensive, so I wanted to see if anyone knew of an amateur destination photographer that is interested in a vacation and getting some new and exciting work added to their portfolio. I would be willing to pay them for their services and pay for 1/2 of their travel fees (for a two/three night stay).

Congratulations to everyone here, and much thanks.

[~Jessica~]

I would recommend going with someone that has atleast done some outside wedding photography. In all my research I kept finding time and time again that to shoot a destination wedding is tricky with all the lighting aspects. And the last thing you want is pictures to not be that great when it is one of the most special days of your life. My photographer takes amazing pictures and was a second shooter to one of the best photographers in Puerto Vallarta. But he has branched out on his own and has moved back to the states and is willing to travel. His packages are totally reasonable for people in a tight budget, but you will still get amazing pictures. I don't know if he would go to Fiji but I don't see why not! His website is license to Still, his name is Nathan Cordova. I know I am super stoked to have him shooting my wedding.

[hockeymom97]

I am super happy with the photographer we selected and the pricing that she was able to work out for us. I'm sure if you let her know that you were a referral from me, she could work out a deal for you as well. Her website is Best Friend Photography and Design and she does wonderful work. She started out with potraits but branched out a while back and has done a ton of weddings - and has done many destination weddings as well. And not only do I love her work, she is SO personable and easy to get along with. It feels great that I'll have someone I'm comfortable with shooting my wedding!

[Kristy!]

Hello Elizabeth. Unfortunately both suggestions you've received so far are from brides getting married within 10 days of you!

 

My photographer, Kristi Klemens of KLK Photography, was phenomenal! I am so happy with my pictures and our friends and family keep making comments on how she truly captured our personalities. She was great to have around for a few days in St. Lucia. We also hired her fiance, Paul Bennett of Blue Sky Videos, for videography and we just loved him and his work as well.

 

I have posted our slideshows and a video on the forum, so check them out!

 

Here are their websites:

 

KLK PHOTOGRAPHY

 

Blue Sky Videos- Southern California Wedding Videography

 

They'll travel pretty much anywhere. Let her know that I referred you and she'll probably work out a discount for you. Good luck!

[dinogomez.com]

Good luck with your search, there are many options around the forum!!

[Jo 2010]

OH MY GOD - I am having the exact same dilemma! How much do I wish that we were getting married at the same time!

 

I'm also a fiji bride - and have been (so far) unimpressed by the local photographers.

 

I would recommend looking at some Australia Photographers - not only would the travel costs be significantly reduced, but also with the exchange rate of the US dollar the photographers would be quite reasonably priced.

 

Its something that I have been stressing about ever since we decided on a DW. Originally I was just going to get friends to take photos - but after looking at the amazing pictures of ladies on this site, I really want beautiful pictures and a TTD session

 

You could try advertising on guntree Classifieds ? Gumtree Sydney Free Classified Ads ? Gumtree Sydney Online Community in Sydney for budding wedding photographers? at least the advertisement will be free...

 

Let me know how you go!

[Stamperamma]

We originally contacted the universities to see if any of the professors could recommend a student. We had a few but in the end we ended up going with the one the resort recommended. We only need one good picture and he has 32 chances to get it right. From what I have seen of his work I am more than confident that he can do it.

[Dianna]

Many professsionals would be more than happy to accomodate your requests. Especially to add a great location into thier portfolios/website. It sounds like you have some great ideas and would be a blast to "work" with also. Simply contact some photographers that you like and ask. Happy Planning!!!

[~Melissa~]

I agree with checking out some of the local photography schools. Could be an amazing opportunity for an up coming talented artist. They've already been through the techinical aspects. Just be patient with them just in case.... I know with weddings you only get one chance for a lot of shots. You need a fast paced photographer who is used to the pace of weddings.

 

You wouldn't want someone missing that first kiss shot or any special moment for that matter! best of luck in your search - let us know how it goes.

[jaredrey]

In the end it is all about managing your expectations and understanding that in terms of photography, in many cases, you do get what you paid for. If you do search the forums or wedding photography from past brides done by a professional, don't put that same expectation on an amateur photographer. It isn't possible for many to be able to do that same quality. If wedding photography isn't on the top of your priority list and you don't mind if it isn't 'as professional' than most, definitely your best savings will be for an amateur. If you do fall in love with some of the amazing photography found on the forum than I just suggest checking the vendor marketplace and researching those photographers and just contacting them and asking if they offer any discount for portfolio building. The worst they can say is 'no' and you may be surprised at some that may offer discounts if it is a location that have not shot at before.

 

Happy searching!