Wedding photos - studio photography?

Question

Has anybody else had their wedding photo done at a studio instead of at the wedding? Did you do this the day of the wedding or the previous or next day? Tips?

I about dropped when calling around for pricing to have a photographer at my wedding. Even the lowest price is unacceptable since it doesn't even include any final photos (just proofs). I have no objection to people making a living - just doesn't fit in my budget. I have at least 3 people who could take photos at the actual wedding - they just aren't very skilled at portrait style photography.

Next question - is it reasonable to put into the contract that I want the negatives after say, a year? I believe that is the only way to prove copyright if you later want duplicates and the photographer has gone missing or out-of-business or to do fun things (such as put us on a cup or a clock at Walgreens photo).

Please note: my wedding budget is $2,800, so definitely not extravagant.

Answer 1

I would try to find a way to pay for a photographer for your wedding.  A studio would be okay to get some formal posed portraits, but what about the ceremony and reception?  Maybe you can get a student to do it or a small company.  My husband and I own a photography company in Virginia and charge much less than other companies.  Look around and sometimes you can find a great deal.  If you get married during the winter I know that a lot of vendors will give you a great discount!  Good luck!!

Answer 2

My idea...Call your local artsy college. Ask for the photography dept. ank if any students would like to do it for experience and an hourly rate say$40 and put your photos on CD to print what you want.

Answer 3

Since your budget is rather small, I would consider checking in with your local community college.  Chances are, there is a student or two willing to work for less money than a professional photographer would and still be able to provide you with beautiful photos.  Post ads on campus and see what happens!  The students usually have a portfolio of some kind!

You should be able to draw up a simple contract which lays out what they will cover, cost of supplies, and copyrights on the negatives, etc.  Do some photos beforehand as well and see if you like their work!

Answer 4

you need a higher budget sorry but thats not much to work with

Answer 5

Put an ad on Craig's List looking for a student photographer who wishes to increase their wedding experience.  Offer a small amount of money (say $100) and require that you IMMEDIATELY recieve all negatives.  In exchange, they may use the photos for their portfolio and you will provide a reference.

You should get several people to respond, all with training and good equipment.  Ask to meet with them in a public place to review photos they've done.

This way, you won't have to burden any of your guests with the title of wedding photographer (though they can still take some shots).  You will save money and not have to negotiate negative rights (which few pros will give you).

If it doesn't work out, you can always get dolled up on your one year anniversary.

Answer 6

We got our portraits done at a studio after the ceremony.

For the ceremony and reception, my brother-in-law took photographs.

But skip the studio shots since your budget is tight.

Answer 7

Only folks I know who did as you are suggesting?  No budget, baby on the way, and they decided to wed at the courthouse.  Immediately after they wed, they went to the photography studio . . . and have some very nice photos as a result.  

I certainly don't feel qualified to advise on contracts, negatives, and/or copyrights.  So I don't offer any advice on that.

My advice?  Are there any colleges or universities near you?  Ask instructors there for names of talented photography students.  Perhaps you can find a student who wants the experience and he/she will be willing to give you a good price?

Good luck.