 Joy Fender |
Should I take the job? Background: I had the honor of having a co-worker request that I attend her pre-wedding/wedding/reception to capture some "special moments" shots that may be missed by her pro-wedding photographer who will focus mainly on posed shots of the B&G, the wedding party and family. I am a serious amateur with a long way to go in my hobby. I believe my photography skills are growing every day and I am beyond thrilled that someone believes the same. This co-worker has seen photos I've taken of my children and another co-worker's infant. It was based on these photos that she asked me to do this for her. My biggest concern about doing this is making sure not to irritate/annoy the hired professional, especially by staying out of the way. For those of you who *are* pro wedding photographers, how would you feel about this situation? How would you like to be approached with this? My co-worker is considering just introducing me as a friend, attending the wedding, who happens to love taking pictures. I believe, that depending on the personality of the photographer, it might be possible to explain the situation and develop a set of ground rules or a "plan" so that he/she (not sure which) doesn't feel like he/she is getting their toes stepped on. At the same time, I would really like the opportunity to try this. My thought is to set a "sitting fee" that covers the cost of my film and developing...with maybe a small amount for my time. Then, my co-worker can have any reprints/enlargements at a small profit over my costs. She's more than willing to pay me for my "service". I've been told by other friends that they'll kill me if I don't at least cover the cost of my supplies. :-) Should I run from this nightmare in the making or jump at the opportunity? My thanks in advance for anyone who takes the time to respond!
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Jeff S. Kennedy |
A lot of it depends on the wedding photograper. There are some who don't allow anyone to take pictures besides them. I wonder if the bride spoke to the photographer about her concern that he wouldn't be able to get shots of everything she wants. Speaking to the photographer depends upon you and it depends upon the photographer. If it makes you feel better then do it. It wouldn't hurt to speak to him if he's using strobes since they may be set on photo slaves. You don't want to be setting off his lights with your flash. Otherwise, there's usually some relative or friend at most weddings trying to take pictures and it doesn't bother me. Just remember the b&g are paying the photography a lot of money to do the shots. Don't get in his way and you shouldn't have a problem. Another option that occurs to me is that you could contact the photographer beforehand. Let him know you will be there and that the bride wants you to take shots as well. Maybe the photographer would let you assist him. Or at the very least he may be able to tell you who, where, and when to shoot. Offer to show him samples of your work. Wedding photographers always need help. They may not always want it (depending on the size of their ego) but they always need it.
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Joy Fender |
Thanks for the input Jeff. I agree that the B&G are paying the wedding photographer good money for good reason and I certainly don't want to get in his/her way. If I do this, I plan to investigate the lighting in each of the 3 locations (home, church and reception hall) beforehand. My hope (goal?) is that I won't need to use my flash, as I know this could cause the greatest interference. I have suggested to this woman that she talk to the photographer about her desire for some more "personal" shots. She's already hired him/her, why not see if they are willing/able to capture these shots too. The last thing I want to do is take something away from the professional who's already been hired.
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Suzanne |
Hi Joy, I too have friends that admire my work. Any time there's an event, even if there is a professional photographer hired, I still take pictures. I have been to many weddings where other guests have taken pictures with their cameras. The photographer she hired can't be everywhere at every moment. At weddings I take anywhere from 5 to 15 rolls, depending on my budget. I put them in an album and give it as my gift to them. Most photographers I have met don't mind. I usually end up drooling over their equipment and asking photography questions. The only question that needs to be asked is "Who's wedding is it anyway?". Just tell her to check her contract to see if there's a restriction on guests taking pictures...what wedding photographer would do that?
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