Phil and I got married in May of 2016- hello eight years of marriage! We tied the knot at the Ravenswood Event Center in Chicago, in a beautiful, exposed brick room. Candles adorned the entire room, all white everything (including my bridesmaids- yes, I was ahead of the trend by many years). It was an absolute dream! Now, here I am, eight years later, on the total opposite spectrum of the wedding industry. I’m no longer the bride, I’m busy working for the bride.
From a Photographers Lens—What Good Photography Captures
When we chose our wedding photographer, she came with very high reference. I fell in love with her work so I was sold immediately (Shout out to Lidia Codrean- she’s a DREAM!). There was no shopping around. Whatever price tag she sent, I was willing to pay. And I know that isn’t everyone’s situation, but photos were top priority for me. I was ready to cut in other areas before I cut on my photography.
A professional wedding photographer brings elements that your friend with an iPhone simply cannot. They know how to handle lighting challenges, composing the perfect shots, they ensure you look your best post-production. All the things! All of the things you want captured—the candids, the emotions, the moments you aren’t there for. The professionals know what they are hired to do.
Many moments throughout the day you aren’t a part of, even when you are. People entering the ceremony space while you are tucked away, hugging and greeting one another. Your grandma crying during the dinner speeches, while you are focused on your Dad retelling your birth to the entire room. Your guests reactions to you walking down the aisle, while time feels frozen yet racing all at once. These are the moments a professional photographer looks for—waits for.
Best Investments in Wedding Photography
A professional wedding photographer arguably brings the only tangible item you get to leave your wedding day with (and the videographer, too!). Sure, you get to keep your dress, your shoes, your cake to eat a year later, all your décor—but really? What do you plan to do with those things? There’s no saving your florals, your food, your drinks, or your venue. And all of these are equally important, and I have met some of the most pleasant and talented florists, bakers, venue hosts there are. But when it comes to budgeting and where to cut costs—your photos are not it!
Many people choose a photographer based on a number of reasons: style, vibe, personality, price-tag. Whatever your choosing may be, please do not let the price-tag dictate your decision above all else. A wedding photographer is an investment and just like anything else in life, the larger the price-tag, generally, the higher the quality. Professional photographers really take time to practice their craft and you are truly paying for their expertise. I’ve heard horror stories of regret time and time again from couples that opted for budget over quality- don’t let that be you!
My Own Perspective
From both a professional and personal standpoint, photography is one of the greatest investments of your wedding day. Again, it’s the only tangible of value that you walk away with from your big day. Years from now, you can wish you chose a different dress, or a different venue, or served a different dessert. But it will be a thought that comes and goes with no relevance. But the last thing you want to wish you chose differently is a photographer. You want photos to look back on for years to come that you are so utterly in love with!
How was your experience wedding planning? Do you still love your photos? What was your biggest priority when wedding planning?
Check out more of my wedding photography work at http://www.kaitjensenphotography.com
