91% of wedding couples prefer to hire a professional photographer to capture their special day, while 8% choose to work with a relative or friend. The other 1% don’t bother with wedding photographs at all, perhaps just having a quick ceremony at the register office and then all heading for the pub afterwards.
Some people believe that, as long as you have a good camera, anybody can take wedding photos, and it’s true. Although you could take some wedding photos using your phone, it’s unlikely that you will get enough to keep in the album.
Professional wedding photographers spend years honing their skills so that they can produce a stunning set of photos every time. Many couples desire a photographer that can keep them calm. When you are the centre of attention for the day, having someone taking photos of you can be stressful because there is always that doubt at the back of your mind.
Maybe your tie isn’t quite straight, or maybe that necklace isn’t showing as it should? A photographer who is not only great at taking pictures but has a relaxed and friendly approach can be a great asset on such a big day. You should meet with your chosen photographer prior to the big day and have a casual chat to get to know one another. A good wedding photographer will also want to see the venue in order to plan ahead. Commercial videographer
Many couples want a mix of posed pictures and candid wedding photography in Hertfordshire or any other county. According to the dictionary, “candid” can be described as “truthful” or “frank.” Candid photography refers to photos taken without the subject being aware of what is going on. The photographer will mingle with the guests and use his training and instincts to spot something unusual or something that looks as though it may happen and be ready to take the shot when it does. This gives the photograph a natural and relaxed look.
Technology plays a more important part in wedding photographs today. Some photographers are now using a drone to take aerial shots, and these can make a huge difference to the wedding album. Taking photographs with a drone is yet another skill that has to be learned – first of all how to fly the drone, and secondly how to use it to get the best shots. The photographer will also have to be licenced by the Civil Aviation Authority to pilot a drone and will need to have insurance cover as well.
Something to consider is the cost of hiring a wedding photographer for the day, which is why some couples cut corners and have their Uncle Jeffrey take the photos. However, the vast majority of couples would rather not take any risks: after all it is a day that is never going to be repeated. Even so, you may wonder why a professional quotes you a price that may be greater than you were expecting.
To begin with, the photographer should meet with you before the day itself and will also want to travel to inspect the venue, so there is time involved there just to begin with. On the actual day itself, he may be with you for as much as 12 hours – which is a long working day in anybody’s language. It is more than that. There is much to do after the event, including editing and adding effects. All minor flaws must be corrected, which takes much more time than the actual day.
You also have to consider the cost of the equipment, which can run into the thousands of pounds. Cameras and lenses and other equipment has to be kept up to date, and USB’s and hard drives purchased. The cost of a DRI Mavic Zoom 4K drone is approximately PS1,100.
Also, the cost of learning how to fly the drone and get the best shots are important. There are also courses and workshops that the photographer must attend to stay current with the latest photography trends.
So, as you can see, there is a lot more that goes on behind the scenes than there ever is on your big day itself.