I got an e-mail the other day from a bride who was excited, hopeful and ready to book my services if I was still available for her day and time. We’d talked last spring but she had long-ago decided she had to trim her St. John wedding budget and we had parted our ways – or so I’d thought.
There are four family photographer friends in the upcoming wedding group – three amateur and one professional – and she and her groom had decided to let them handle the photos to save costs. After all, they’d all be taking photos anyway.
In today’s tough economy, it was an understandable, although potentially a regrettable decision:
- Amateurs can and do take spectacular photos, but relying on those alone to get those important photos can be risky. After all, lighting can be complex and even the finest digital cameras can’t handle these conditions without expert skills.
- Are you sure that your photographer friends know about proper exposure or finding the perfect spot.
- And, while taking wedding photographs for family and friends is an honor, even for a professional, it is hard work, and the shooter ends up on the outer edges of some of the fun instead of participating directly. Speaking for my peers, we do it anyway out of love.
It turns out that the best man in this case was also a smart man. He and the maid of honor pooled their resources and decided to gift the young couple with a St. John wedding photographer as an early wedding gift. They wanted to take the pressure off the guests travelling so far to attend the island wedding, and ensure quality images throughout the day for everyone. It was a great kindness and a thoughtful wedding present which will last a lifetime!
As the chosen photographer for their Virgin Islands destination wedding, I am honored. Yes, I am giving them a generous deal – as kindness deserves kindness. I’m looking forward to meeting the whole group, and even helping the amateurs take some great photos. (… but that’s fodder for another blog, so stay tuned).
What great friends this couple has, and they’ll cherish forever your beautiful photographs from their most special day.
Comment by Nancy — December 6, 2009 @ 10:15 am
Bob,
I know from knowing you and your commitment to your photography and seeing your work that the bride and groom (and others) will be ecstatic when they see the results. Talk about money well spent. We had a very good photographer when we got married on St. John but if we ever have pictures taken there again, you will be the chosen one. Some are very good and some are excellent and Lenore and I put you in that category. Many wishes on your endeavors.
Al Buck
Comment by Al Buck — December 7, 2009 @ 12:27 pm