Viral Now - Why You Shouldn't Trust Just Anyone To Handle Your Wedding Photography

You’re finally making plans for your big day. You pick the venue and get the perfect flowers. You select a caterer and organize a scrumptious meal. And then, you make the mistake of thinking all photographers (professional and amateur) are the same, so you decide to just pick the first one that has the date available. Or worse yet, you decide to forgo the pro and use a friend or family member who enjoys doing photography as a hobby.

But, there are at least two good reasons why you shouldn’t let just anyone do your wedding photography. And we’ll explore them both here.

1. Your Wedding Only Happens Once

The biggest reason you shouldn’t treat your wedding photography haphazardly is simple: you only get married once. These memories are special and you are going to want them preserved. Choosing a photographer randomly out of the phonebook or as an answer to an online ad isn’t going to cut it. For one, photographers often specialize in particular styles and events, so it pays to research options carefully. Second, photographers have different skill levels, even if they are all professionals.

A wedding photographer has experience in the kinds of shots you will want. For example, if you want all of the basic poses and group shots, it helps to work with someone who knows them all by heart. Additionally, those with experience will be able to help everyone adjust their positioning to ensure the most flattering photos possible. While other professionals may have notable skills in their area, it helps to have someone who can anticipate what you are likely to want.

During the ceremony and reception, certain key events can occur in only a few moments notice, if any is given at all. Someone experienced in photographing weddings will be familiar with the timing and tempo of these events, making it easier for them to capture the big moments as they occur.

Working with a friend or family member can be even riskier, especially if their interest in photography is casual. Aside from being unfamiliar with posing techniques and the timing of the ceremony, they are also more inclined to be distracted during the event, or even somewhat inebriated if alcohol is served.

2. Your Friends And Family Are There To Celebrate

Aside from the risk of missing important moments being photographed if you allow a friend or family member to handle the duty, you both miss out on the opportunity to enjoy each other’s company during the event. Photographing a wedding is a time-consuming project, as it can require hundreds of photos to be taken to capture a few dozen great shots. That means, if your friend or family member is trying to take pictures and have fun during the festivities, some photographic opportunities will be lost. And, if they capture all of the shots, they may miss out on enjoying the celebration in you and your partner’s honor.

Either way, there is the risk of conflict. If they don’t get all of the pictures you hoped for, you may be upset based on their performance. Similarly, they may be resentful of being asked to work so diligently while others had the chance to enjoy themselves.

A professional wedding photographer normally has no direct connection to members of the bridal party or their friends or family. That means they can be fully dedicated to the task at hand and won’t feel like they are being pulled away from a joyous event.

So, if you want to make sure you get high-quality pictures of every important moment during the ceremony and reception, going with a professional wedding photographer is your best bet. And, remember, your wedding only happens once, so make sure you have the best moments captured for future enjoyment and reflection.

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