Pricing is a “Qualifying” factor; Quality is the “Determining” factor!

Yes, you initially need the approximate price range of a photographer. It allows you assess your initial budget, your expectation of the quality of the photography you desire and make adjustments.

Under $1000 for wedding day coverage (70% of wedding market) … Buyer beware! You may find a good deal, but you need to ask lots of questions. Most have been in business less than 3 years and have taken less than 20 weddings. They may not have insurance, professional grade equipment, and back up equipment. They may not be able to consistently reproduce the images they show you. They may not have mastered all of the basic styles of wedding photography (photojournalistic, illustrative, & formal posing). Nearly all photographers start here and a few work their way up. Most drop out in about 3 years.

$1000-3000 (27%): Very likely a true Professional Photographer. They consistently reproduce the images they show you. They are usually a “generalist” and can consistently produce coverage with photojournalistic, illustrative, & formal posing photographic styles. May not have a unique style that differentiates them from other photographers. A generalist is a very good choice for most couples who do not have a specific style they desire.

$3000-10,000 (2.99%): Master Photographers. Each has a “unique” style. You either “want” that style or you don’t. Keep looking until you find the style you desire!

$10,000 (0.01%): World Class Master Photographer. They win international competitions. They have perfected their unique style and are world renown!

You can get a “feeling” for the style of a photographers images from the website. If you don’t like what you see move on!

But to be sure you have to touch and see the printed images in albums and see the wall art. Professional photographers will meticulously calibrate their monitors, and at least monthly recalibrate them. Most consumers never consider calibrating their viewing devices. Are you really seeing what you will receive on the internet? The cost of an album can vary by a factor of 10 or 20. Is a print-press coffee table book right for you, a hand crafted archival quality photographic paper album, or something in between?

While price is a “qualifying” factor for photography for most couples, it should not be the determining factor. Determining factors are: Do you like the style of the photographers? Do you trust the photographers to capture the quality images you desire? Will you enjoy being closely associated with the photographers on your wedding day? These determining factors can only be made by holding the art and talking with us!

Call us to set up a free consultation and see if the products and services of Herb & Betty will delight you!