Photographer Questions

haha...I'm going through the same thing. I didn't know whether money was worth it or if a picture is a picture?? Whether to go with a friend or someone random or someone recommended...I decided to go with someone who was pricier than some others, but I know her and I know she won't screw me over, like some of the other questionables I had.   I'm leaning towards just the CD, but I might see what her albums look like as well since I don't see myself putting together a very beautiful wedding book on my own...but yeah CD, cuz that way we can print the ones we like at the sizes we prefer. Do what your gut tells you, instead of researching like crazy. That only gave me a headache, when I think I knew all along what I wanted :)

What a tough decision!! Wedding pictures are extremely important, it is how you are going to remember your day!! However, to me, $4000 is  a little extreme!! I know everything is more expensive in the city, but there are many excellent photographers out there just starting out that charge half that amount. My cousin's wife is doing our photography...only 6 hours of coverage. However, since she is also a guest any pictures she takes at the reception will be included on the CD. DEFINITELY do the CD. You can make your own wedding album later. As for the extended coverage,  rely on all of your friends to take pictures  at the reception. I will take lots of pics at your reception for you! LOL!

Okay, here are my opinions.  I think there are two super important parts of your wedding... And obviously, the fact that you are marrying the man of your dreams.. but I'm talking vendor wise.

The Photographer
The DJ

After all the thousands spent, and the party is over... you are left with your photographs.  And people don't think about the DJ, but they run the show.  Once you are there.. you are not gonna be on the mike saying.. "hey guys, look at the photobooth, and check out the flip flop basket I made... and hey, come over here, we're cutting the cake!  So in my opinion... I put my money into those two areas.  I booked my photobooth and photographer before I had a venue or anything, b/c to me, they are important.  The photos are the only physical thing you really have left.. other than you're love of course :)  Printing charges from a photographer are through the roof, so a disk THAT YOU HAVE THE RIGHTS TO, is a must... that's important.  Some will give you the disk, but they're just for viewing pleasure.. make sure to ask if you can go into any old store and print from it.  I paid just under 4000, with a huge 12x12 album, but we were a referral and got a discount.  I'm having 2 professional photographers.  That's another thing to watch for... you can have two people shooting... but, are they two people that could do a wedding on their own? Or is one an assistant.  4000 is alot, BUT for two professionals that can do it on their own.. it's not horrible... If one is an assistant or stationary, it's too high. If you found two photographers and it included an album.. a large one, for that price, I'd say you are good to go!  Okay, I'm gonna stop now..lol but that's me.. Two of my best friends are photographers.. and I'm a scrapbooker so my opinion is biased.. very photo pro! lol  OHhhh time wise!!! I wanted someone there the whole time, but it's ridiculous... and not needed.  How many professional pics do you need of people busting a move.. you want a few.. but not ones when people look sweaty and a hot mess anyways..,lol, so get you getting ready and into your day, after all the formalities and a little dancing :)

thanks guys!

your comments were very helpful, with that being said I think we have found a photographer!!! they cover:

8 hours of coverage time by two professional Photographers
300 proofs digitally mastered and enhanced in Photoshop and presented in a leather album
A full resolution DVD of all images (apprx. 1250) on a personalized disc in a personalized case
Full copyright license privileges granted to you
Online proof viewing
* Engagement photo session (including one 8 x 10 and two 5 x 7’s)

and there pictures are great! check them out here:

http://www.facebook.com/pages/London-ON/Dawn-Boyce-Photography/106795462682094?ref=nf

you guys are right photo's will last forever and are very important, I am starting to feel relieved!! hahaha

We were able to win our photography so we're only paying for travel fees, but it includes a lot which is wonderful.  
I did research a lot of photographers beforehand though and I was looking in the $2-3k range.  I would ignore the 'album included', slideshow, etc.  You don't need all the extra stuff you can do yourself or get later on.  Basically all you need is all pictures edited on a disc, all day coverage (or however much you're looking for), and an engagement session/trash the dress/day after shoot, etc.  Everything else to me is extra.  I do think working with a team that has 2 photographers is a must though.  Say you're walking down the aisle and the photographer has to choose which picture to take, the grooms reaction or the bride walking down?  Also, when getting ready before the wedding if you have a female and male photographer one can be in each room getting some 'getting ready' pics of each of you.  Also, lastly I think it's important to choose a photographer whose work you can see.  If they have a blog showing their work, that's great.  If there are any online reviews, even better.  Ask a lot of questions too.  
Those are my 'tips'! I hope you find the right one for you and your fiance.

I know a team of 2 photograhers that are amazing and have several different packages to choose from that are very reasonable

http://web.mac.com/classicphotography/iWeb/classic%20photography/Wedding%20Packages%20%26%20Rates.html

good luck