XP: Regrets about Photographer?

pzavecz

Hi!  I was wondering if anyone out there regretted their choice in photographer after they got their pictures back?  Like if you decided to spend less on photography to stay within budget, do you wish you would have just splurged on it?
I really love the work of a couple of photographers, however, they are kinda pricey...and honestly, a little out of my budget.  But then again, I didn't really know what was realistic to allocate to photography in the first place so my original budget was a bit unrealistic for what I wanted in my area to begin with.  I'm debating whether I should just go with the photographer whose work I love and just deal with the financial hit...or be more sensible with my $ and stay within budget.  If I do the latter, I am afraid I'll regret it later because my pics won't be as nice or what I was really looking for.  Photography seems to be one of those areas where "you get what you pay for" and I really don't want to end up with pics I hate or photographer that just plain sucks and doesn't know what they're doing....  I'm leaning more towards getting the photographer I love but FI is kind of a stickler with how much we are spending on this whole thing....So for those that opted to go the more budget-friendly route, would you still do the same thing, if you could do it all over again?  Thanks for the insight!  

gymbugmj2k

my FI and I are into photography, and we knew that the photos is what we'd look back at and remember from the day. We can also tell good from bad quality and theres NO WAY we wanted average pictures -- we wanted works of art.  We wanted to be able to display them, and create canvas hangings, photo books, save the dates, etc.

That comes with a price tag.  We tried to avoid it, but in the end.... we want what we want.  the compromise was that we would spend less on flowers, centerpieces, and other "small things" that weren't as important to us.

All i can say is do a LOT of research.  Interview a few photographers.  And in the end -- go with who you really feel is right for your wedding.  If you're just going to throw them in an album never to be looked at for the next 10+ years, then sure -- go budget friendly.  If your wedding demands a higher quality and heavier usage of photos, and if you notice/are aggravated by poor lighting composition, white balance, etc, etc... then yes, splurge for higher quality. You can always cut down on the 'less important' details of your wedding to balance the budget.

fallbride1109

We splurged on photography and don't regret it.  But I have seen photographers in my area that I love that charge less than my photographer simply because they are a little less experienced in weddings. It could be that you can find someone who is considered mid-range that is great, but who charges a little less because they've been doing it less time.  But that is going to mean some research on your part. 

But yeah I agree mostly with you get what you pay for.  You're not going to pay budget prices and get artistic, photojournalistic photography.  Only you can decide if it's worth it.

[Deleted User]

Make sure that you choose a photographer that has the style of photos that you're looking for, and then look at price point. Choosing a really expensive photographer just because they're "The Best" doesn't gaurantee that you will love the photos. For example if the photographer likes working in shadows and has a more artistic approach to photography and you love photos that are light and bright and natural looking - you might not be happy with him no matter how good he is and how much he charges. Look at the photographers portfolio if you LOVE all of their photos - go for it! Splurge you'll be looking at those photos for a long time!

www.joannamoss.com

MichelleGirardPhotography

From what you're saying, it sounds like you will definitely regret not going with the photographer you love. Even if the photos that the less expensive person creates are ok, you'll be wondering how much better they could've been. Go with your instincts. You'll hear from people who went with the budget route who have horror stories and you'll also hear that some people got really lucky and loved their photos. Base it on the work you've seen from each photographer and their personality since they'll be with you the entire day. Maybe you can look at a couple more photographers that might be a better balance of budget and style even.

Good Luck!

kimbo1781

Can I ask what your budget is? I  noticed you were in the O.C, I am too! If you want a recommendation I can give you one

pzavecz

kimbo - our budget was originally $3k, but we are willing to go up to 3.5k for the right photographer.  we want full day coverage, 2 photographers, engagement session and rights to all the pics (preferably high res).  That budget doesn't include an album.  We've got a couple photographers in mind that fit the bill, and take photos we love.  it's just a tough pill to swallow knowing i'm spending that much...but just shopping around that seems to be about right price-wise (maybe even more on the lower end for more of the artsy type style i want in our area).  which photographer are you using/did you use?

alexhophotography

make sure you like the work of the photographer you choose and dont pick one because they were the cheapest. its a once in a lifetime occasion and you dont want to have to regret not choosing a better photographer.

-alex
www.alexhophotography.com

ashleylargo33

ok check out www.brittaneetaylor.com because she fits right into your budget and is in the OC area. Seriously just did my best friend's wedding and I am still in awe of ger teaser pics!

LauraChristin

I am a pro photographer and bride and I think you can absolutely find a great photographer in your price range for that amount. I think you can even find one that would include an album. There are a lot of photogs out there! Good luck.