What time do you want me to do my hair?
The answer is: I have no idea. I'm not being sarcastic here, I'm being honest. Because I don't know your hair type or hair
dresser and how long it takes them, along with what style you are doing. Even if I did know the style, I'm not a hair
dresser, that's their expertise. I leave that up to you two to determine. I just show up and take photos of it in any shape
or form. You could be half ready and the show must go on! Some want photos of their hair being done, some want photos
of their hair after only. Some want make-up being put on and some what it already on when I arrive. Up to you.
I cover up to 2 hours of getting ready, what you do in that time is up to you and I take photos as it happens. If you want
formal photos taken of girls only, allow a half hour for them before the ceremony or before the limo picks you up. If you
want formal photos done of you and your future husband before the ceremony, push getting ready up by 1-1.5 hrs before
the ceremony starts or the limo picks you up. Simple as that.
What happens with dark churches that don't allow flash photography?
Always ask if your photographer can use flash photography or if the person marrying you allows it. It sometimes is personal
preference or building preference. Then let your photographer know before you hire them. Whether it be inside a church
or not, this can be a hard task. Sometimes it is just not allowed during the Ceremony but is allowed while walking down
the aisle entering and exiting.
If the answer is a solid no, it might be possible to "stage" a reenactment once the official ceremony is over. Most are not
into this idea or have no time if a Mass is coming in after. I personally don't prefer this option because you lose the
real-ife version and you lose the emotion of the moment and guest won't be seated anymore.
Some don't allow photography at all and you will have no record of your Ceremony. But it's better to know this all in
advance and agreed upon for all parties involved.
In churches, will my photographer be allowed to approach the altar for close-ups?
If your photographer is restricted to the back of the church, there is obviously a limit in the types of images capture.
Long telephoto lenses can compensate, but there are many angles that are impossible to get from the rear of the church.
Sometimes they allow only half way up the alter, which is better but not close enough to get what we'd like. Remember
that most your photos will be the back of you in this case. Also remember to ask before hand if there is a balcony and if
your photographer can go up during the Ceremony. My motto is always be respectful but try to get the images as well.
I have a friend or family member taking photos at the wedding too, is that OK?
I don't mind as long as they DO NOT: jump in front of me, push me aside, make loud noises during the ceremony, become
a distraction or try to take charge. I suggest no more than two others taking photos with large camera equipment. It's
best if they DO NOT stand in the isle. Most of the time I am trying to get a full photo of the crowd and the whole
ceremony, so it can look awkward from a distance if someone is standing in the center, as well as when you are walking
down the isle. It can also take the attention away from the bride and groom.
If you decide to have others with camera or video equipment during any event, remember that they may be in the
photos. I will do my best to avoid them and work around them but it is not always possible. The end result might be that
they are directly in the way, so make the choice and be aware of the end result. See example.
Just as I am a professional, please be sure they act as a professional and let them know this before the wedding. I know
that I am usually in the isles, but I am the main photographer and you are paying for the photos I capture. Have them
check with the officiator, priest or paster before hand because some have restrictions that everyone has to go by
including me. Sometimes the officiator thinks they are with me and therefore it can reflect on my business, in turn,
making it harder to work at that location again if they do not follow the rules.
Also, I have seen many times that some people take change too much. Such as, I see them taking table shots at the
reception of the guests. I don't mind except for when it's before me and then they look at look like I should be doing it.
There is many reasons I don't do the table photos right away. I go for the detail photos first, the cake, the center pieces,
etc. Most of the time it's when guests are eating which I do not take photos of people eating, I wait until before or after.
Then, by the time I get to the table they either don't want the photo or think it was already taken and are reluctant to
do it again.
Extra flashes do not bother me or my camera and can actually make for some really creative photos if it does catch
another's flash. In rare cases it can be too much light or cause red-eye but otherwise it should be fine. I also take turns of
letting you look at each camera so that your eyes are always on me or whom ever is taking the photo. I prefer to get the
first shot. Sometimes on a very limited basis, I will take cameras owned by others that are handed to me when they want
to be in the photo but taken on their camera. But I leave that decision up to you and don't discourage or encourage it
one way or another. In the end, the more photos the better, never know what they can capture!
Do you mind a videographer?
I don't mind and will do my best to work with and/or around them. Remember the smaller the area the harder it is for me
to avoid going in front or avoiding them being in the photos and visa versa. Also, having a videographer means I cannot
get as close to you as I may like (which I try use the telephoto lens for). I may be off center because I agree they should
be centered with a tri-pod and I will be beside them for most. Lastly, I may not get some creative angles as I normally
would because of the limited access and photo opportunities while working around them, especially during ceremony. I
usually have no problems because in most cases, we communicate with each other constantly throughout the day.
Do I generally tip a photographer and how much?
It varies by location and couple. I've seen anywhere from $20. - $200. And tips are always welcome!
What will you wear to my wedding?
I try to wear dark clothing to blend in. In the summer, if it's hot, I will wear tan capri's with a dark or light casual top. I am
constantly on the move so I need to be comfortable and hydrated. I try to stay with greys, tans, neutrals or black. If I
ever do wear a pattern it would be light or small enough to blend, never stand out. I never want to be a cause for
attention or take away from the bride! Dress pants are my usual. Remember that I am running, up, down, climbing and
more to get the creative shots. I do not wear skirts or heels. My feet are sensitive (ever since I took dance class for two
years) and usually hurt a couple days after a wedding because I am on my feet and so active in photo taking, thus I wear
flat black or white running shoes. I also wear a waitress wrap for all my extra batteries and supplies. See examples of what
I wear.
How long does it take to get my photos after my event?
Approx. 10-14 weeks as high resolution images on data storage DVD, with photo release. CD's are available only if
requested. In the holiday months, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, it may take an additional couple weeks. Usually
the weddings that are most affected by this are from October to December. If you have special requests, such as blemish
touch ups, it also may take longer.
What cameras do you use and how large are the images?
I have 3 Canon EOS Digital Rebels. The higher the megapixel the better. My new main camera is (coming soon! - a Canon
EOS Rebel at 12 mp)! Second camera is a Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi at 10.1 mp and my emergency back-up camera is a
Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTat 8.0 mp. All produce great quality images for prints as large or larger than a 30x40 inch poster
size.
Almost at every wedding I get asked the oddest questions by guests, some are standard, some are expected
and some are just conversing. But when I get the ones that are repetitive I try my best to understand why
it's being asked. Here are some:
"Are you allowed to do that [drink water, go to restroom, eat]?"
I try really hard to answer this question as a professional and not be sarcastic, which can be tough after hearing it so
much. I would never abuse any break time. I take a break for restroom and an eating break which I spend most of that
time checking equipment.
In reality, some vendors like the wait staff, caterers, some wedding planners, they know where to go or have secret
places that most can't see and eat in the back hidden. Most of the time they have their own restrooms in the back. As far
as photographers and videographers (sometimes DJ's) we are right there with everyone else unless you have a place for us
to go or sit. It looks unprofessional when we have no where to be when everyone is eating. I feel especially awkward
hovering on the sides with a camera because I don't take photos of people eating but if there is no seated bar or side
room, I have no where to go. A small table off to the side would be sufficient.
"Why do you have 3 cameras?"
I say, why not?
I have three different lenses and it's always good practice to have back-ups. And most of the time I carry 2-3 cameras at a
time during events, particularly during the ceremony. I have a long telephoto lens for close-ups (for things such as the
exchanging of rings), a standard lens, and a wide lens (for entire room shots).
"Are you taking a photo of my crotch?"
No. It's a wide angle lens and it may look like I am aiming downward but it is getting a very wide area. Trust me, I am not
taking a photo of your private area!
"Why don't you do a photo like this or that [meaning their way or a traditional way]?"
Because I was hired to take photos the way the bride/groom asked and they also hired me for my eye and creativity. I
understand some guest will have knowledge of photography or vocal opinions but less mistakes will happen if I am able to
just do my job the way that I know how and it will go smoother.
Are wedding photographers and every image taken going to be absolutely perfect?
No. Photographers are human too. Any photographer you choose will have some faults. Weddings are not studio style, we
can't make every lighting situation perfect because we do not have the time, weddings move fast. We can however,
know how to do our job and adjust accordingly. Most of the time we are working in uncontrollable lighting situations.
That's why I always say, we are here to capture your event as it happens, not to cover every scenario perfectly or make
every single image publishing material. (although I try hard for this! :)
Keep in mind that not every photo is going to be the idealistic magazine style. Once you understand this, you'll see the
photos that do stand out. For example, bridal magazines only choose the best from each wedding submitted by
photographers or out source to an image library with models as subjects. Yes altogether they look fabulous, but it is not
all the same wedding or not real. Another way of putting it: not every person is going to look at your images the same
way you do. They may not know all the people or the feelings, not everyone would understand the Toast photo and how
much that means to you. Yes, I want to capture that emotion, but to expect that photo to be "the photo" will probably
not happen. But there may be a different one that you never thought of it being. That is the beauty.
One of the biggest complaints I hear from couples about wedding photographers is that they either did not get the
photos they wanted or it was not worth the money. Now I'm not talking about the most horrible disasters I hear about,
those are different. I'm talking about the general expected idea that every image should be magazine material, which is
not realistic. Part of this is speaking up ahead of time about what you want. As long as you review this, you understand
what your photographer offers and they try their best to commit to what they say, then that is what matters.
Professional enough?
Sometimes I think people get confused between me loving what I do and enjoying myself and unprofessionalism.
Lately I've been getting some ratings of 4 or 4.5 out of 5 that I am not professional enough. And I've decided that I'm not
going to take it too personal because it's not that a bad score and isn't it better to be a little less professional than to be
stiff and mean?
To answer this question rightly, I would like to ask these questions in return: What then do you define as professional for
a wedding photographer? Have you done the job yourself before, if so, how were you rated? And are you saying you want
a stiff mean pushy person instead? Many think this job is easy, and although it can be a humbling, beautiful thing, it is by
far not the easiest job out there. There are many behind-the-scene issues that I control that you don't see and it varies
per wedding.
Now granted I am very laid back, I try new things, I am not predictable in what I capture. There is no way to be
predictable because every wedding is so different. And if I wasn't enjoying myself in what I do and get involved, then
what is the point of doing what I do and being "Out of the Ordinary" in the first place? Wouldn't you hire someone who is
"ordinary" then?
I believe I am professional enough to be a wedding photographer and I also believe that everyone, including myself, has
room for improvement on anything, so I am open to critiques. And I am always learning along the way.
For example, in rare cases this happens but I'm no longer afraid to ask for you or someone there to help to control a tough
crowd for a group photo. It makes more sense because I do not know all their names. I used to struggle in the past with
this and not get a timely formal session done or any one good photo of the group. Sometimes I get adults that won't put
out cigarettes, run off, eat o'dourves, drink alcoholic beverages, talk, move around, or won't try for a photo at all. So it's
hard to get a photo with all of these factors.
If it is an uncontrollable crowd, then who do you think they may listen to more? The bride and groom or a complete
stranger with a camera? I say the bride and groom because hopefully they respect that it's your day. And it works so we
can all move forward, rather than me running around trying to control something I cannot. Which scenario looks more
professional to you?
My response is this, if you want someone who is snooty in the corner that barely moves to get a shot, then I am not your
person.
If you want your photographer to get subjects to smile by lightening up the situation, someone that speaks up and tries
new ideas, someone that will be honest with you and if you don't mind an artistic personality around, then yes, I am the
suitable person to capture your wedding. Simple as that.
Lastly, if you still are unsure and can't put trust into others doing the best they can at their profession - job shadowing is
a great tool.
Feature: The awkward food conversation.
Where do I seat the vendors? Do I supply them a meal? If so, when?
Short version:
Please seat me at a table for two off to the side away from guest but so I can still get to the dance floor if need be
(preferably near an open outlet) This way I have a place for my cameras and a seat to rest my feet. It's OK to seat me next
to other vendors. Most guest feel uncomfortable with me next to them unless it's a 25 or under guests amount. I don't
recommend letting it up to the venue to decide on their own, every wedding varies. Always ask the venue before hand
on what they have in mind for vendors. Please do not seat me at the main bride/groom guest table.
Long version:
This question is frequently asked, but not by the bride & groom or the vendors.
Oddly enough, it doesn't come about until the last minute. Almost every wedding I hear the same comments from all
vendors: DJ's, bands, videographers and photographers. Most of the time it's, "I wish they would have seated me near
where I needed to be." And then I hear, "And they should have fed us sooner because we need to get going on what we
were hired to do." This is because most of the time when the guests are done eating, we are served, but then the
events start.
But the real question is, why isn't this mentioned up-front and why has this always been a mystery on all parties involved?
I guess it's because we, as vendors, don't want you to feel obligated in any certain way. We realize this is your day, not
ours. Yet, the conversation arises every time. So I'm going to be blunt and honest, as I always am, and tell my opinion:
If you are suppling us a meal - thank you! We are ever-so grateful because we are usually starving by the time we get to
the reception. Some vendors require a meal and state it up-front, but I'm not so sure that's the polite way or not. If you
are not suppling us a meal, just let us know ahead of time so we can bring an energy bar and water. There is no time to
stop in between. Either way, we are human too and need to have energy for the rest of the night. As well as a place to
sit down and put our equipment/bags. It does not look tasteful to have vendor bags just hanging out on the sides of the
room but we need it unless you have a hidden place near by (preferably near an open outlet).
I know it may not seem right at first, but it makes better sense to seat the vendors where they need to be. It's good to
seat all of us together if you can and I'd recommend seating us beside the DJ's set-up area if possible.
DJ's need to be by their music. They need to make sure all is going smoothly and may need to jump in at any moment to
make corrections. This is less a problem if there are two DJ's, as they can rotate positions. With bands it is different and
usually end up eating after they play or set up dinner music in between. But once again, I'd say seat them near their
equipment if they are eating.
Photographers and videographers should be near the dance floor or near the DJ area. Or at least have easy access to the
dance floor at all times. We need to reach all areas - but the dance floor is most important. Most events, random or
planned, happen there. Even though we are standing the majority of the time, it's during dinner that it's very hard for us
to get through crowds and chairs to get to these important happenings in time. Especially if the guests suddenly all stand.
I've also had experiences where I was seated completely on the other side of the building with the DJ. We couldn't hear a
thing of what was going on. Needless to say, both of us ate about two minutes worth of a meal and went back hungry
just to not miss anything.
Meal time. We know that the guest, rightfully so, should be fed first. But most of the time, we get fed after everyone is
done eating the main course. This makes no sense at all, because this is the time when we need to get back to work. So
in most cases, we have to leave the meals or don't eat at all, hoping that the staff doesn't take it. If you are suppling a
meal in another room for us, you can feed us sooner than the guests because it will not be noticed and we can get back
to work sooner.
I don't recommend letting it up to the venue to decide on their own, every wedding varies. Always ask the venue before
hand on what they have in mind for vendors.
Remember, we know we are there to do our job first, no question. But if you can make things easier for us, we can do
the job even better without the guilt of grabbing a quick bite to eat.
Got a question? Or one you think I should post?
Email me: holly@outoftheordinary.biz
Please feel free to give us a call and Holly or Jim Greene will be happy to help!
518-338-3333
*Some exceptions may apply, please contact me for further details. Everything is analyzed on a case-by-case basis. If
there are travel cost, a larger deposit/retainer fee may be needed up front due to booking a hotel ahead of time, etc.
Definition: JPG or JPEG (pronounced JAY-peg:) is a commonly used method of compression for photographic digital
images. JPEG is often considered to be a file format. JPEG is the most common image format used by digital cameras and
other photographic image capture devices; it is the most common format for storing and transmitting photographic
images on the World Wide Web.
Definition: Sepia or Sepia tone (pronounced SEEP-ia) is when an image color mode is saturated to a brown or rust color
hue. It's like black and white only it has a brown tint instead of grayscale. It tends to have an old fashioned rustic look.
The answer is: I have no idea. I'm not being sarcastic here, I'm being honest. Because I don't know your hair type or hair
dresser and how long it takes them, along with what style you are doing. Even if I did know the style, I'm not a hair
dresser, that's their expertise. I leave that up to you two to determine. I just show up and take photos of it in any shape
or form. You could be half ready and the show must go on! Some want photos of their hair being done, some want photos
of their hair after only. Some want make-up being put on and some what it already on when I arrive. Up to you.
I cover up to 2 hours of getting ready, what you do in that time is up to you and I take photos as it happens. If you want
formal photos taken of girls only, allow a half hour for them before the ceremony or before the limo picks you up. If you
want formal photos done of you and your future husband before the ceremony, push getting ready up by 1-1.5 hrs before
the ceremony starts or the limo picks you up. Simple as that.
What happens with dark churches that don't allow flash photography?
Always ask if your photographer can use flash photography or if the person marrying you allows it. It sometimes is personal
preference or building preference. Then let your photographer know before you hire them. Whether it be inside a church
or not, this can be a hard task. Sometimes it is just not allowed during the Ceremony but is allowed while walking down
the aisle entering and exiting.
If the answer is a solid no, it might be possible to "stage" a reenactment once the official ceremony is over. Most are not
into this idea or have no time if a Mass is coming in after. I personally don't prefer this option because you lose the
real-ife version and you lose the emotion of the moment and guest won't be seated anymore.
Some don't allow photography at all and you will have no record of your Ceremony. But it's better to know this all in
advance and agreed upon for all parties involved.
In churches, will my photographer be allowed to approach the altar for close-ups?
If your photographer is restricted to the back of the church, there is obviously a limit in the types of images capture.
Long telephoto lenses can compensate, but there are many angles that are impossible to get from the rear of the church.
Sometimes they allow only half way up the alter, which is better but not close enough to get what we'd like. Remember
that most your photos will be the back of you in this case. Also remember to ask before hand if there is a balcony and if
your photographer can go up during the Ceremony. My motto is always be respectful but try to get the images as well.
I have a friend or family member taking photos at the wedding too, is that OK?
I don't mind as long as they DO NOT: jump in front of me, push me aside, make loud noises during the ceremony, become
a distraction or try to take charge. I suggest no more than two others taking photos with large camera equipment. It's
best if they DO NOT stand in the isle. Most of the time I am trying to get a full photo of the crowd and the whole
ceremony, so it can look awkward from a distance if someone is standing in the center, as well as when you are walking
down the isle. It can also take the attention away from the bride and groom.
If you decide to have others with camera or video equipment during any event, remember that they may be in the
photos. I will do my best to avoid them and work around them but it is not always possible. The end result might be that
they are directly in the way, so make the choice and be aware of the end result. See example.
Just as I am a professional, please be sure they act as a professional and let them know this before the wedding. I know
that I am usually in the isles, but I am the main photographer and you are paying for the photos I capture. Have them
check with the officiator, priest or paster before hand because some have restrictions that everyone has to go by
including me. Sometimes the officiator thinks they are with me and therefore it can reflect on my business, in turn,
making it harder to work at that location again if they do not follow the rules.
Also, I have seen many times that some people take change too much. Such as, I see them taking table shots at the
reception of the guests. I don't mind except for when it's before me and then they look at look like I should be doing it.
There is many reasons I don't do the table photos right away. I go for the detail photos first, the cake, the center pieces,
etc. Most of the time it's when guests are eating which I do not take photos of people eating, I wait until before or after.
Then, by the time I get to the table they either don't want the photo or think it was already taken and are reluctant to
do it again.
Extra flashes do not bother me or my camera and can actually make for some really creative photos if it does catch
another's flash. In rare cases it can be too much light or cause red-eye but otherwise it should be fine. I also take turns of
letting you look at each camera so that your eyes are always on me or whom ever is taking the photo. I prefer to get the
first shot. Sometimes on a very limited basis, I will take cameras owned by others that are handed to me when they want
to be in the photo but taken on their camera. But I leave that decision up to you and don't discourage or encourage it
one way or another. In the end, the more photos the better, never know what they can capture!
Do you mind a videographer?
I don't mind and will do my best to work with and/or around them. Remember the smaller the area the harder it is for me
to avoid going in front or avoiding them being in the photos and visa versa. Also, having a videographer means I cannot
get as close to you as I may like (which I try use the telephoto lens for). I may be off center because I agree they should
be centered with a tri-pod and I will be beside them for most. Lastly, I may not get some creative angles as I normally
would because of the limited access and photo opportunities while working around them, especially during ceremony. I
usually have no problems because in most cases, we communicate with each other constantly throughout the day.
Do I generally tip a photographer and how much?
It varies by location and couple. I've seen anywhere from $20. - $200. And tips are always welcome!
What will you wear to my wedding?
I try to wear dark clothing to blend in. In the summer, if it's hot, I will wear tan capri's with a dark or light casual top. I am
constantly on the move so I need to be comfortable and hydrated. I try to stay with greys, tans, neutrals or black. If I
ever do wear a pattern it would be light or small enough to blend, never stand out. I never want to be a cause for
attention or take away from the bride! Dress pants are my usual. Remember that I am running, up, down, climbing and
more to get the creative shots. I do not wear skirts or heels. My feet are sensitive (ever since I took dance class for two
years) and usually hurt a couple days after a wedding because I am on my feet and so active in photo taking, thus I wear
flat black or white running shoes. I also wear a waitress wrap for all my extra batteries and supplies. See examples of what
I wear.
How long does it take to get my photos after my event?
Approx. 10-14 weeks as high resolution images on data storage DVD, with photo release. CD's are available only if
requested. In the holiday months, such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, it may take an additional couple weeks. Usually
the weddings that are most affected by this are from October to December. If you have special requests, such as blemish
touch ups, it also may take longer.
What cameras do you use and how large are the images?
I have 3 Canon EOS Digital Rebels. The higher the megapixel the better. My new main camera is (coming soon! - a Canon
EOS Rebel at 12 mp)! Second camera is a Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTi at 10.1 mp and my emergency back-up camera is a
Canon EOS Digital Rebel XTat 8.0 mp. All produce great quality images for prints as large or larger than a 30x40 inch poster
size.
Almost at every wedding I get asked the oddest questions by guests, some are standard, some are expected
and some are just conversing. But when I get the ones that are repetitive I try my best to understand why
it's being asked. Here are some:
"Are you allowed to do that [drink water, go to restroom, eat]?"
I try really hard to answer this question as a professional and not be sarcastic, which can be tough after hearing it so
much. I would never abuse any break time. I take a break for restroom and an eating break which I spend most of that
time checking equipment.
In reality, some vendors like the wait staff, caterers, some wedding planners, they know where to go or have secret
places that most can't see and eat in the back hidden. Most of the time they have their own restrooms in the back. As far
as photographers and videographers (sometimes DJ's) we are right there with everyone else unless you have a place for us
to go or sit. It looks unprofessional when we have no where to be when everyone is eating. I feel especially awkward
hovering on the sides with a camera because I don't take photos of people eating but if there is no seated bar or side
room, I have no where to go. A small table off to the side would be sufficient.
"Why do you have 3 cameras?"
I say, why not?
I have three different lenses and it's always good practice to have back-ups. And most of the time I carry 2-3 cameras at a
time during events, particularly during the ceremony. I have a long telephoto lens for close-ups (for things such as the
exchanging of rings), a standard lens, and a wide lens (for entire room shots).
"Are you taking a photo of my crotch?"
No. It's a wide angle lens and it may look like I am aiming downward but it is getting a very wide area. Trust me, I am not
taking a photo of your private area!
"Why don't you do a photo like this or that [meaning their way or a traditional way]?"
Because I was hired to take photos the way the bride/groom asked and they also hired me for my eye and creativity. I
understand some guest will have knowledge of photography or vocal opinions but less mistakes will happen if I am able to
just do my job the way that I know how and it will go smoother.
Are wedding photographers and every image taken going to be absolutely perfect?
No. Photographers are human too. Any photographer you choose will have some faults. Weddings are not studio style, we
can't make every lighting situation perfect because we do not have the time, weddings move fast. We can however,
know how to do our job and adjust accordingly. Most of the time we are working in uncontrollable lighting situations.
That's why I always say, we are here to capture your event as it happens, not to cover every scenario perfectly or make
every single image publishing material. (although I try hard for this! :)
Keep in mind that not every photo is going to be the idealistic magazine style. Once you understand this, you'll see the
photos that do stand out. For example, bridal magazines only choose the best from each wedding submitted by
photographers or out source to an image library with models as subjects. Yes altogether they look fabulous, but it is not
all the same wedding or not real. Another way of putting it: not every person is going to look at your images the same
way you do. They may not know all the people or the feelings, not everyone would understand the Toast photo and how
much that means to you. Yes, I want to capture that emotion, but to expect that photo to be "the photo" will probably
not happen. But there may be a different one that you never thought of it being. That is the beauty.
One of the biggest complaints I hear from couples about wedding photographers is that they either did not get the
photos they wanted or it was not worth the money. Now I'm not talking about the most horrible disasters I hear about,
those are different. I'm talking about the general expected idea that every image should be magazine material, which is
not realistic. Part of this is speaking up ahead of time about what you want. As long as you review this, you understand
what your photographer offers and they try their best to commit to what they say, then that is what matters.
Professional enough?
Sometimes I think people get confused between me loving what I do and enjoying myself and unprofessionalism.
Lately I've been getting some ratings of 4 or 4.5 out of 5 that I am not professional enough. And I've decided that I'm not
going to take it too personal because it's not that a bad score and isn't it better to be a little less professional than to be
stiff and mean?
To answer this question rightly, I would like to ask these questions in return: What then do you define as professional for
a wedding photographer? Have you done the job yourself before, if so, how were you rated? And are you saying you want
a stiff mean pushy person instead? Many think this job is easy, and although it can be a humbling, beautiful thing, it is by
far not the easiest job out there. There are many behind-the-scene issues that I control that you don't see and it varies
per wedding.
Now granted I am very laid back, I try new things, I am not predictable in what I capture. There is no way to be
predictable because every wedding is so different. And if I wasn't enjoying myself in what I do and get involved, then
what is the point of doing what I do and being "Out of the Ordinary" in the first place? Wouldn't you hire someone who is
"ordinary" then?
I believe I am professional enough to be a wedding photographer and I also believe that everyone, including myself, has
room for improvement on anything, so I am open to critiques. And I am always learning along the way.
For example, in rare cases this happens but I'm no longer afraid to ask for you or someone there to help to control a tough
crowd for a group photo. It makes more sense because I do not know all their names. I used to struggle in the past with
this and not get a timely formal session done or any one good photo of the group. Sometimes I get adults that won't put
out cigarettes, run off, eat o'dourves, drink alcoholic beverages, talk, move around, or won't try for a photo at all. So it's
hard to get a photo with all of these factors.
If it is an uncontrollable crowd, then who do you think they may listen to more? The bride and groom or a complete
stranger with a camera? I say the bride and groom because hopefully they respect that it's your day. And it works so we
can all move forward, rather than me running around trying to control something I cannot. Which scenario looks more
professional to you?
My response is this, if you want someone who is snooty in the corner that barely moves to get a shot, then I am not your
person.
If you want your photographer to get subjects to smile by lightening up the situation, someone that speaks up and tries
new ideas, someone that will be honest with you and if you don't mind an artistic personality around, then yes, I am the
suitable person to capture your wedding. Simple as that.
Lastly, if you still are unsure and can't put trust into others doing the best they can at their profession - job shadowing is
a great tool.
Feature: The awkward food conversation.
Where do I seat the vendors? Do I supply them a meal? If so, when?
Short version:
Please seat me at a table for two off to the side away from guest but so I can still get to the dance floor if need be
(preferably near an open outlet) This way I have a place for my cameras and a seat to rest my feet. It's OK to seat me next
to other vendors. Most guest feel uncomfortable with me next to them unless it's a 25 or under guests amount. I don't
recommend letting it up to the venue to decide on their own, every wedding varies. Always ask the venue before hand
on what they have in mind for vendors. Please do not seat me at the main bride/groom guest table.
Long version:
This question is frequently asked, but not by the bride & groom or the vendors.
Oddly enough, it doesn't come about until the last minute. Almost every wedding I hear the same comments from all
vendors: DJ's, bands, videographers and photographers. Most of the time it's, "I wish they would have seated me near
where I needed to be." And then I hear, "And they should have fed us sooner because we need to get going on what we
were hired to do." This is because most of the time when the guests are done eating, we are served, but then the
events start.
But the real question is, why isn't this mentioned up-front and why has this always been a mystery on all parties involved?
I guess it's because we, as vendors, don't want you to feel obligated in any certain way. We realize this is your day, not
ours. Yet, the conversation arises every time. So I'm going to be blunt and honest, as I always am, and tell my opinion:
If you are suppling us a meal - thank you! We are ever-so grateful because we are usually starving by the time we get to
the reception. Some vendors require a meal and state it up-front, but I'm not so sure that's the polite way or not. If you
are not suppling us a meal, just let us know ahead of time so we can bring an energy bar and water. There is no time to
stop in between. Either way, we are human too and need to have energy for the rest of the night. As well as a place to
sit down and put our equipment/bags. It does not look tasteful to have vendor bags just hanging out on the sides of the
room but we need it unless you have a hidden place near by (preferably near an open outlet).
I know it may not seem right at first, but it makes better sense to seat the vendors where they need to be. It's good to
seat all of us together if you can and I'd recommend seating us beside the DJ's set-up area if possible.
DJ's need to be by their music. They need to make sure all is going smoothly and may need to jump in at any moment to
make corrections. This is less a problem if there are two DJ's, as they can rotate positions. With bands it is different and
usually end up eating after they play or set up dinner music in between. But once again, I'd say seat them near their
equipment if they are eating.
Photographers and videographers should be near the dance floor or near the DJ area. Or at least have easy access to the
dance floor at all times. We need to reach all areas - but the dance floor is most important. Most events, random or
planned, happen there. Even though we are standing the majority of the time, it's during dinner that it's very hard for us
to get through crowds and chairs to get to these important happenings in time. Especially if the guests suddenly all stand.
I've also had experiences where I was seated completely on the other side of the building with the DJ. We couldn't hear a
thing of what was going on. Needless to say, both of us ate about two minutes worth of a meal and went back hungry
just to not miss anything.
Meal time. We know that the guest, rightfully so, should be fed first. But most of the time, we get fed after everyone is
done eating the main course. This makes no sense at all, because this is the time when we need to get back to work. So
in most cases, we have to leave the meals or don't eat at all, hoping that the staff doesn't take it. If you are suppling a
meal in another room for us, you can feed us sooner than the guests because it will not be noticed and we can get back
to work sooner.
I don't recommend letting it up to the venue to decide on their own, every wedding varies. Always ask the venue before
hand on what they have in mind for vendors.
Remember, we know we are there to do our job first, no question. But if you can make things easier for us, we can do
the job even better without the guilt of grabbing a quick bite to eat.
Got a question? Or one you think I should post?
Email me: holly@outoftheordinary.biz
Please feel free to give us a call and Holly or Jim Greene will be happy to help!
518-338-3333
*Some exceptions may apply, please contact me for further details. Everything is analyzed on a case-by-case basis. If
there are travel cost, a larger deposit/retainer fee may be needed up front due to booking a hotel ahead of time, etc.
Definition: JPG or JPEG (pronounced JAY-peg:) is a commonly used method of compression for photographic digital
images. JPEG is often considered to be a file format. JPEG is the most common image format used by digital cameras and
other photographic image capture devices; it is the most common format for storing and transmitting photographic
images on the World Wide Web.
Definition: Sepia or Sepia tone (pronounced SEEP-ia) is when an image color mode is saturated to a brown or rust color
hue. It's like black and white only it has a brown tint instead of grayscale. It tends to have an old fashioned rustic look.
Got a question? Or one you think I should post? Email me: holly@outoftheordinary.biz
Things you should know from a photographers stand point at your event:
