1. Why hire a professional? There are many affordable professional wedding photographers out there. Watch for the ones who have never done it. You can not do this over so make a good choice.  Ask yourself the following questions: Do I want color pictures? Black and White? Formal poses? a mix? more photojournalistic? Do you want a formal album or just a proof book? Do you want the negatives? We shoot 100% digital files and therefore have many options with regard to processing your images and album choices. All of our packages include the original files so that you will never pay high prices on reprints. We will gladly assist you in making any additional prints that you desire.

2. How can I keep costs down? Compare between the photographers package prices and ala carte pricing.  One package may work better for you. Find out before hand if you take the ala carte plan, how much are the reprints and enlargements?

3. Don't better photographers cost more? NOT TRUE. This is up to you and what you are looking for. You will pay more for a photojournalist. You will pay more for artistic pictures, Infrared, and hand tinting. The more options you want, the more it will cost you. This is not usually a reflection of the photographers ability. However, the cheapest photographer might not be the best choice either. He or she may not have the experience. Don't make the mistake of putting your wedding in the hands of someone who is not experienced. Remember you can not re-shoot it later.  

Rates: Average Photography Rates for NY/NJ area (sampled August 2005)
Traditional - 150-200 proofs -  $1400-$2000
Photojournalistic - 300+ proofs -  $2000-6000
Artistic - 300+ proofs -  $3000 - 10,000

4. Do you want a female photographer (they come with the woman's perspective of course) or a male photographer?  Woman have made great strides in this industry which was dominated by men.  Man or woman it doesn't really matter, what does matter is that you like the person you are working with, you feel you can trust them, and you are comfortable with them.  

5. Can I see an entire wedding?  Why would a photographer show something that was not the best work?  Every photographer should furnish you with a standard portfolio.  However, this will showcase the photographers best images. Ask to see a complete event in a real proof book. This will give you an idea of really what to expect.  A heads up: Not every image is the perfect picture! There is no photographer who can guarantee picture perfect each and every shot. Do you see a variety in the portfolio? Is there a mix of candid and formal portraits? What about black and white? Infrared? Sepia? Hand Tinting? Do they offer retouching of blemishes?

6. Can I meet the photographer?  Many companies have multiple photographers and it is important you get a feel for the personality and work of the actual person who will be there. We make every client meet with a photographer before making their final decision.

8. How long until I can have my proofs/albums?  Now that you know a little more about cameras and film, if the photographer tells you 4-6 weeks that is very reasonable.  Some 35mm photographers can get the proofs to you in 3-4 weeks depending on the lab. We shoot 100% digital and have proofs online within 48 hours of your event. We have an average 1-2 week turnaround time on finished albums from the time you make you photo choices.

9. How does your contract work?  When looking for a photographer you should ask the following: Do you understand the payment terms?  Does the photographer require full payment the day of the wedding?  If so what is the guarantee he/she will deliver the proofs? What happens if the photographer is sick? What is the cancellation policy? All of these items are clearly laid out in our contract and we are glad to help you with any questions you may have. We can also modify the contract to meet your specific needs.

10. Do you have any references? It's always a good idea to get a few references which you can contact.  You can start here on our site by visiting the testimonial section. We are happy to provide names and numbers for you as well. When speaking with the references remember they are regular people taking time out to answer questions.  Be courteous to them and remember one day you may be a reference.

11. Do I have to feed the photographer? Some reception halls insist you feed the band / photographer / videographer, in that case you do, but no, you don't have to. Talk to the photographer before hand. Save your money. If you are not going to feed them, however, let them know. If the photographer will be spending the day with you 5+ hours, then they will need an hour off to eat. Talk it over with everyone in advance. Many reception halls have a special rate for a basic meal for the service providers. Check with them.