Professional Wedding Photography: Measuring the Value of a Priceless Service Part I

He popped the question, she said yes, the diamond is gorgeous and the wedding will be spectacular! The caterer is top-notch, the gown is divine, the music is perfect and the photographer wants HOW MUCH?

But Uncle Joe has a nice camera and he is always showing off his photos at every holiday. Maybe he can do the photography, and then there will be enough money to add the Viennese Table to the reception.

STOP RIGHT THERE (please).
Think about the last wedding you attended. Remember the mountains of food? You were stuffed before the cocktail hour ended, and the band was good, but do you remember their name? They certainly weren't U2, or even Glenn Miller for that matter.

Now think about the photography. Did you receive a photo with the thank you notes? Maybe you visited the couple's wedding blog and saw a beautiful sunset image with them walking through the park or down the beach. And maybe one image of the bride and her father just before they walked down the aisle brought a tear to your own eye as you dreamed of your own wedding day. Oh and the flower girl and ring bearer were just precious!

Long after the food is nothing but a stain on your favorite dress, and you have found a new favorite band, the only record of your wedding day-that most special day of days-will be your photographs. Do you think Uncle Joe is up to the task to capturing the memories you hope to treasure forever?

When you hire a professional photographer, you are paying for professional quality images, captured in a professional manner-respecting the sanctity of the ceremony, the comfort of your guests, and the contract for services you both signed.

When you hire a professional photographer, you are buying more than a person to take pictures during your wedding, or any other event for that matter. You are investing in a priceless record of a once in a lifetime occasion. There are no retakes in wedding photography. Your photographer only gets one shot to get it right.

If ever there were a time to hire a professional, wedding photography is that time.

Part II in next week's post-Find out exactly what your investment in a pro photo package pays for.

Comments welcome!
Tell us what you think about the value of professional wedding photography. Did you learn the hard way by having Uncle Joe take the pictures? Did you have an unpleasant experience with a pro? Post your comments here.