Things To Look for In A Professional Photography Studio

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We realize planning a wedding is no easy task. You are faced with so many choices particularly regarding your photographer. With different packages & pricing structures, it may be easy to overlook some of the details that in our opinion make a great wedding photography studio. We sincerely hope this reference guide will help. ~ Bob Paré

Quality
Look closely at the images presented to you, as samples are they in focus, well composed and creative? Do they appear to be up to date or recent photographs? Do the sample albums have one couple from start to finish or is the photographer representing only the best of the best by displaying ten different couples with only stunning backgrounds and perfect weather conditions? Do not hesitate to question the person you meet with regarding these concerns. Are you shown the work of the photographer who would be photographing your wedding? Ask to see a random sample of the photographer’s work such as a project the studio is currently working on or an order that is completed and ready for pick up by a client. A studio should be proud to show any of its work and not rely solely on its designated samples.

Honesty
Is someone trying to sell you something or are they answering your questions and letting you make an educated decision? When you ask a question, are you given an honest answer backed up by integrity and facts? Are the packages, services and prices presented in a clear fashion or are they vague and ambiguous? A studio should be as up front and honest with you as possible and not have to rely on sales ploys & pressure to sell its services and product. Honesty, quality, value and customer service speaks for itself.

Personality
Are you treated with respect and made to feel comfortable? Are all of your questions answered thoroughly and in a way you can clearly understand? Are your specific needs discussed or are you being fit into a particular predetermined category? Is the person you meet with well informed? Do you feel pressured into making a decision? Are you encouraged to compare services & prices between different studios? Your photographer is the person you will deal with the most closely before, during and after your wedding. It is very important that you are comfortable with the way the studio conducts its business affairs.

Appearance
Neatness does count. Is the person whom you are meeting with dressed appropriately? Is the office area presentable and organized? Does the studio have multiple albums and wall portraits for you to view? These seemingly minor details reveal a lot about a studios work ethic.

Punctuality
Is the person you are meeting with on time and prepared for you? Do they leave enough time between appointments to answer all your concerns and questions? Are you given personal attention at your meeting or is another couple present? We believe you deserve the undivided attention of the person you are meeting with in order to address your specific needs.

Location
Is the studio located in a separate place from a residence? We are by no means suggesting that running a business from your home is unprofessional. It’s just that an environment such as a separate studio does show that the proprietors are serious about what they are involved in and it is more than a part time endeavor. A studio where photographs may be taken on the premises may be a service you wish to take advantage of.

Above all, your common sense will be your best guide. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Most professional studios use the same film, type of equipment and in some cases, the same processing lab.
With this in mind over pricing as well as substantial under pricing should give cause for questioning.