First let me start off with - photography is very important to me. It is definitely in my top 3 on my importance list.
My issue is this: We're broke. We cannot afford a photographer for more than $400-$500 and we're struggling to find someone in this range.
I sent an email to the photography club at a university in my state, asking for a response from anyone looking to build their portfolio. I received one response so far. She has stated that she has done engagement pictures, couples pictures, and senior pictures. She has never done a wedding before, though. The shots are pretty traditional (straight shot, no angles). I definitely want some angled shots in there. I don't know what type of equipment she uses, either. I do know that she is having 2 days of training in Feb for wedding photography. I believe that is what she ultimately wants to get into.
My sister, Lauren, used to be a professional wedding photographer. Her work is amazing to me and she does the type of pictures I want. The reason she got out of it was because she get tired of dealing with bridezillas. She does still do them occasionally, though, if she has referrals. However, she uses her friend's equipment. Her friend will not loan her the equipment to fly out to my state to do the pictures. So if she needed to do our photos, she would have to use my mother's $300 digital camera.
Lauren is still taking pictures at our wedding. My parents keep asking my why I would pay money to hire a photographer when Lauren will be there. Three reasons: 1. I'm nervous about her only using a $300 digital camera, 2. I want MORE pictures, and 3. I want her to focus on the actual wedding, not making sure pictures are being taken. More info on 3: we have a small guest list; we only expect about 15 people present; and because it is so small, we are not having a wedding party. Do you think it would be a good idea to hire a student who wants experience, or should I just stick with Lauren? If so, what should be charged?
If we decided to go through with this, I will definitely require an engagement session to get a feel for her style more. I understand that this is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and that this should be the one thing I should definitely splurge on, but I know that with Lauren there, the pictures will definitely be taken. I just don't know how good of quality (as far as sharpness and what not). And again, I do not know yet what type equipment this young lady has.
Any feedback would be greatly appreciated!!