Choosing Your Wedding Photographer – Tips for Brides

It’s a jigsaw puzzle, planning a wedding. And I don’t mean one of those big block, 24 piece puzzles you put together as a child. This puzzle has a thousand moving parts, all of varying shapes and sizes, and a seemingly endless combination of colors, details, venues and choices. And for most people, there are no smaller puzzles to practice on. Planning a wedding can be stressful and time-consuming. And so to help alleviate some of that stress and try to make the entire photography portion of your wedding planning feel a bit smoother and hopefully a lot more fun, we’ve compiled a step by step process for Selecting & Working with your Wedding Photographer.

  1. Searching for Vendors
  2. Consultation Meeting
  3. Booking
  4. Save the Date or Engagement Sessions
  5. Bridal Session
  6. Wedding Day
  7. Post Wedding Process
  8. Albums

We will be exploring each of the items on our list in more detail in the coming weeks – each week focusing on one particular step in the wedding photography process. Of course, this is only our opinion – but a very well thought-out idea we’ve spent many, many years forming! This week’s blog tips for you future bride & grooms is something you probably know a lot about already – How do you know when you’ve found – the one! The Wedding Photographer!

Find Wedding Vendors

First of all, throw out that old myth that you need to find the “ideal” wedding photographer. The “perfect” wedding photographer – in truth, does not exist. Now that’s not to say you won’t love your photographer; it just means that everyone has a different view of what they feel is “ideal.” But having said that, there are certain things to keep in mind when doing your research when placing those first calls and making your first face-to-face visits. And actually, some of these tips will apply to all of your wedding vendors – not just your wedding photographer.

WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER STYLE

First of all, you want to look for a photographer with a style that matches your own. If you’re unsure as to what your style is, ask yourself “Do I like what I see?” “Can I picture myself in these wedding photos?” “Would I be proud to have this album as my own?” If you answered yes to all of these, then there’s a good chance your styles will meld well. But you may want to go a little deeper and pay attention to the images they present. “Do I prefer the formal portrait style images or the candid photos?” “Do I want a lot of Photoshop in my pictures or a more realistic appearance?” “Do I want someone who is directing us on how to pose or just following the day and capturing it as it unfolds?” All of these questions have multiple layers within them, but it’s a good idea to explore your thoughts on each. Finally, its next to impossible these days to find someone who isn’t an “award-winning wedding photographer“. Make sure you explore exactly what that means and the criteria for their awards.

STORYTELLER

Secondly, you want to find a good wedding photographer who is also a good storyteller. What does this mean? Well, when you’re looking at their portfolio of work, do you get a sense of who the couples in the images are? Can you decipher from the pictures more than just a general feeling of the day? Do you get a sense of completion when you get to the end of an album or does something feel missing? A good storyteller is important, but the key is to find a photographer who can tell your story. And to do that, there are some additional things consider.

Take note of how well they listen to your requests? Are they accommodating to your requests? Do they ask questions about who you are and what’s important to you? Are they interested in getting to know you or are they in a hurry to move on to their next client? How they interact with you during your conversations, meetings and sessions are all good indicators of how accurately they will tell your story, so pay attention!

CONSISTENCY

Ask yourself if their work is consistent? Don’t assume that all of their work will be as high quality as the one album they present to you. Any photographer, no matter what their experience level, can have one lucky day, one decent album to show potential clients. Ask to see more and pay attention to the consistency of their work. Of course with time and experience, we all get better, but you want to make sure the work they are showing you is the same caliber of work you can expect to receive on your wedding day. You may not need a wedding photography specialist but if you want the best, find yourself a master wedding photographer. Look for external certification that proves they’re competence.

PERSONALITY

Personality is key! Besides your fiance, your wedding photographer will be the person by your side the entire day of the wedding. So make sure the three of you feel some chemistry in your meetings and pre-wedding day sessions.

WORD OF MOUTH

References or testimonials from past clients will help a lot in your wedding photographer selection (as well as any other vendors you end up booking.) A photographer’s website or blog will often post client testimonials, but if they don’t – it can’t hurt to ask them for some references. Also, wedding planning sites such as TheKnot.com, weddingchannel.com, stylemepretty.com, are all great ways of finding additional information about your potential wedding vendor. And if none of these options yield any answers, try googling the vendor’s name and see if anything comes up. Sometimes you’ll find an ecstatic former bride who has reviewed her wedding vendors on her blog. Hopefully, it’s all good information, but if she’s got something negative to say, take it with a grain of salt, but don’t dismiss it entirely.

YOU GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR

It should go without saying, but sometimes, it must be said – The last thing you want to skimp on is your wedding photography. Be willing to spend some money. When the wedding day comes to an end, the images from your photographer will be there to let you relive the entire day, detail by tiny perfect detail – anytime you want.

We want you to have that dream team of vendors on your wedding day, a group of individuals dedicated to providing you with everything you’ve dreamt of leading to your big day. And hopefully, our weekly tips for the bride to be will help you achieve that goal. Check back in with us next week for a run-down on Your First Vendor Consultation Meeting! 

 

PPA Loan & Showcase Awards 2010

One of the fastest and easiest ways to grow as a professional photographer is to challenge yourself. Now there are several ways to do this with just you and your camera, but there are also ways of growing that maybe you haven’t thought of yet. Seek out new learning opportunities whether it be at international conventions or maybe from just a few close friends. Learn from your peers as well as those you look up to. Become involved within the industry. And when you get the opportunity, find out how you stack up against the competition by entering a few print contests.

In 2011, Luke & David attended the Imaging USA convention and trade show for the first time. The annual photography convention was held in San Antonio, Texas this year – right in our backyard so it was an easy decision to attend this year.

As part of their tradition, the organization conducts an International Photographic Competition and for the first time, both Luke & David entered prints to be considered alongside some of the world’s most talented and successful photographers. David won a gold award and Luke won silver. Luke was also a finalist in the best of wedding photography category. One of Luke’s images hung for convention attendees to view during the Kodak Gallery Award Ceremony the following evening which was both an honor and a blessing for Luke.

In addition to their image awards, both David & Luke were thrilled to receive International Photographer of the Year awards from the PPA organization for 2011. Two of their images were requested by PPA to be included in the Showcase Collection and three prints for the PPA Loan Collection.

PPA was a new experience for Edmonson Weddings, but one that they hope to continue in the years ahead. For those of you in our Dallas area, David has recently become involved with PPA on the regional level, serving on the local DPPA guild. He is responsible for planning the guild’s educational content, bringing in speakers and building relationships with those involved in the guild’s development through education. If you are interested in becoming involved in the Dallas PPA guild, you can visit their website at www.dallasppa.org for more information. We look forward to seeing you at one of the upcoming programs!

Giving back through speaking.

The life of a professional wedding photographer is filled with many blessed moments. Being part of such an extraordinary and meaningful day in two people’s lives is not only an honor for us but a blessing in itself. When we were asked to speak to other up-and-coming photographers about our experiences in wedding photography and this unique industry and our place within it, we of course obliged.

This past year has graced us with many blessed occasions, but one we are most proud of is our first speaking engagements. We spent time speaking at several Texas regional PPA (Professional Photography Association) conventions this year, including the Dallas guild, the Lubbock guild, and the Texoma guild; as well as the annual SPA (Senior Portrait Artists) conference in Palm Springs, California.

As a photographer and as an artist, you need to refine your craft and develop your personal touch – this is what will make you stand out amongst the competition. But there are several things we have learned along the way that can help you get to where you want to be – quicker, and with fewer missteps. It’s called, Learning to Surf – Riding the Wedding Day Wave and it’s the topic of our speaking program.

First-time surfers will tell you – starting out is hard. You’re unsure of yourself, and you’ll misstep more times than you can count. You’re tired; you’re sore, and you may be hesitant about getting out there and doing it again. But as you learn, it starts to get a little bit easier and a lot more fun. Wedding photography is no different – the trick is learning how to keep your eyes on the horizon, it will keep you from falling head first towards whatever issue you’re focusing. Our goal in this program is to get you up on your feet faster, hopefully making the wedding photography process easier from the get go.

If you’re interested in attending one of our upcoming speaking engagements, drop us a line. We’ll keep you updated as they arise!

Thanks!

When it’s a Photographer Getting Married, Who Do You Hire to Photograph It?

The average wedding photographer is commissioned to photograph anywhere from 20 to 50 weddings per year, with some booking more than 50. For Luke & David, from the moment they opened Edmonson Weddings in early 2003, this has been their rhythm and schedule. So to say they’ve seen it all is quite the understatement. But at the beginning of 2010, the tables were turned, and it was Luke who was saying the I Do’s to his beautiful wife, Bethany.

While driving one day, Luke casually mentioned to Bethany that he had been thinking about who to ask to be their wedding photographer. Intrigued Bethany asked for him to go on and Luke said that the name in his mind what the illustrious and uber-talented – Mr. Jerry Ghionis.

Bethany clapped her hands together exclaiming, “Oh my gosh, he makes women look so beautiful!”

David & Luke met Jerry while attending the WPPI (Wedding and Portrait Photographers International) Convention in 2009. Jerry was not a stranger by any means, as they had seen and heard of his work for quite some time. But it was perhaps cosmically destined, then, to have their print competition images hanging side by side. Cosmic destiny or maybe just the photography God’s stepping in to introduce the three. Whatever it was, a friendship formed instantly.

And so when Luke suggested Jerry to his soon to be wife, Bethany immediately agreed. The two of them reached out to the Australian photography phenom and after a few scheduling discussions, they all settled on April 17, 2010.

The result? In truth, there is no end to the gift that Jerry provided to Luke & Bethany on their wedding day. It’s the kind of gift that – as corny as it may sound – never stops giving. Their wedding album and images from the day are looked at and remarked upon on almost a daily basis, and they were so honored to have Jerry be a part of their day. It’s been just over a year since that amazing day, so for our anniversary gift to you, we’d like to share some of those images.

And just 9 months after Luke’s wedding, the tables turned yet again and this time, it was Jerry Ghionis getting married. On January 24, 2011, Jerry wed his gorgeous bride, Melissa, on top of the Royal Melbourne Yacht Squadron in St. Kilda, Australia overlooking Port Phillip Bay. David and Luke had the honor of attending the wedding and spent some time photographing the couple during their beautiful ceremony and reception. A few of the images capturing Jerry & Melissa’s family members became very meaningful to the two newlyweds. You can hear what they had to say about some of our photos on their blog JerryGhionisBlog.com.

 

Jerry’s mom and dad.

Jerry hired two photographers, one of them being Zane, his nephew!

The very happy couple.

Here is a shot of the two great professionals, Zane and Ryan Schembri

One of Jerry’s close friends is Jesh de Rox, who serenaded the new couple with a composition of his own, composed specifically for Jerry and Melissa.

We’ve mentioned before how Jerry has been a mentor to both David & Luke. But it needs to be said, how really, remarkable an experience it is, to be able to give back to someone who is so giving of himself. Congratulations are in order, to our wonderful friends, Jerry & Melissa.

 

 

The Importance of Mentoring – Edmonson Wedding Photography

If you set out to determine an accurate number of professional photographers working in the world today, or specifically the United States, or even just our local Dallas/Ft. Worth market, you would discover the task is not so easily accomplished. For better or for worse, the professional photography industry is constantly changing and evolving. Hundreds, perhaps thousands of amateur photographers enter the professional arena every day while last year’s newbies and even some of the greats – seasoned veterans, are calling it quits. The result – a mixed bag of competition for those of us still here.

The reasons for this are numerous and also, the subject of a future blog post. Today we’d like to talk about the importance of mentoring. Professional Wedding Photography – it’s a unique business. With so many new photographers entering the industry, you’d expect a lot of hoarding of “inside secrets.” But the truth of the matter is that we photographers love to share – it’s virtually a requirement in our DNA. We are artists who want to share our talent, our craft, our passion with others. And we also believe that by mentoring newer photographers, we’re helping to make the industry as a whole, stronger.

As a mentor, we spend a lot of our time teaching newer photographers how to think and problem-solve, helping them avoid some of the mistakes we experienced but also allowing them the opportunity to experience some things on their own. Through phone calls and in-studio mentoring sessions, on the job training and 2nd shooting opportunities, our end-goal is to provide them with faith, encourage them to try new things, to push past comfort zones, and support their individual endeavors.

This past year, David & Luke took a special interest in one individual in particular. A man who was unhappy in his career and expressed an interest in photography. Through their help along with other mentors who assisted and encouraged him along the way, Paul Ernest entered the WPPI 2011 16×20 International Print Competition this year and walked away with a 1st Place, 2nd Place, 3rd Place and Grand Award, all in the Premiere Division – a category for first time entrants. Paul also entered an image in the First Time Entry division of the DPPA print competition and won the First Time Entry End of Year Award. Quite a year for this very talented new up-and-comer!

David has been shooting professionally for over 35 years, and as much as he loves being a mentor to several photographers, he also enjoys learning from his mentors. We both believe that it’s important to find someone ahead of you on the curve – to learn from, to grow from and to be challenged by. For the two of us, our mentors: Jerry Ghionis & Mike Colon, have had a profound affect not only on who we are as professional photographers, but also as men. As Jerry Ghionis says, “if you want to be a better photographer – be a better person.”

Mentoring is a gift – you’ll find you will learn just as much from your mentor as you will from mentoring someone else.

If you’re looking for a place to start learning immediately on how to be a better wedding photographer; The Ice Society Educational Website by Jerry Ghionis is a great place to start!

Edmonson Weddings Takes Special Honors at 2011 WPPI Print Competition

World-renowned father and son photography team, David and Luke Edmonson, excelled this year at the WPPI (Wedding & Portrait Photographers International) Convention & Trade Show with a new masters level achieved for Luke and an International Print Competition Grand Image Award for David.

The WPPI organization serves to recognize and encourage excellence in photographic artistry and confer Accolades on its colleagues in recognition of their photographic achievements. With over 27 accolades achieved between the two at this years convention, Luke & David have both accomplished a level 2 status, garnering them the Accolade of Outstanding Photographic Achievement.

His image “Whimsical” was granted the competition’s highest honor by a panel of judges as the recipient of the IPC Grand Image Award. This represents David’s second Grand Award earned in WPPI print competition.

When asked about his inspiration for the fairy-tale looking design, David described his mission to create every image with the bride or customer in mind. “In this case, the bride specifically asked for something with a whimsical feel. So that is what we tried to give her.” He described the award as “an honor and a total surprise” though his son Luke and colleagues agreed it was a well-deserved win. David also won a Grand Image Award in 2009 in the commercial division with his image “Reflection.”

The WPPI organization holds three annual International Print Competitions per year, bestowing winners with Exhibition points which help them to achieve higher Accolade status. Through a combination of both Exhibition and Instructional points, David and Luke Edmonson are quickly progressing through the society’s Accolade’s status.

Highland Park United Methodist Church & Belo Mansion Wedding – Meredith and Griffin Perry

 

Vendors:
 
Coordination: DFW Events
Church: Highland Park United Methodist Church
Reception: Belo Mansion & Pavilion
Videography: Sixth Seal Productions
Entertainment: The Bulletproof Brass Band
Florist: Garden Gate Floral
Design/Decor: DFW Events
Chandelier Installation Over Dance Floor: LITE Dallas
Linens: BBJ Linen
Stage Draping: Tracie Johnsen
Specialty Lighting: Absolute Lighting
Cakes: La Duni
Hair and Makeup: Maitee Miles
Rolls Royce Get-A-Way Car: Cloud 9 Vintage Coach

Austin Wedding Photography – Four Seasons Resort – Alison and Brent Baker

Here are some of our favorite shots from DFW Events own, now, Mrs. Alison Baker! Enjoy and don’t miss the slideshow at the end of the post.

 

Vendors:
Coordination: DFW Events
Ceremony: Bethany Lutheran Church
Reception: Four Seasons
Design/Decor: DFW Events
Florist: Garden Gate Floral
Furniture Rentals: Suite 206
Specialty Lighting: Absolute Lighting
Linens: La Tavola Linens
Entertainment: The Project Band
Videography: Crescent Video
Bride’s Cake: The Cake Plate
Groom’s Cake: Hey Cupcake!
Hair and Makeup: Maitee Miles
Get-a-Way Car: Vintage Rides
Wedding Gown: Elizabeth Fillmore, Warren Barron Bridal
Bridesmaids Gowns: Vera Wang, Stanley Korshak

Rough Creek Lodge Wedding Photographers – Molly and Brett Long

Rough Creek Lodge was a beautiful venue and made for a wonderful wedding. Thanks again to DFW Events for all their hard work in preparations for this big day. Congratulations to Molly and Brett Long!

Vendors:
 
Coordination: DFW Events
Ceremony/Reception: Rough Creek Lodge
String Quartet: Gyros String Quartet
Band: The Project
Florist: Garden Gate
Videographer: Imagique
Cakes: Dallas Affaires
Linens: BBJ Linens
Specialty Lighting: Beyond
Photo Booth: DC Booths
Hair/Makeup: Mo Bowers
Transportation: Glen Rose Transit

Ritz Carlton – Dallas Wedding Photography – Pamela and Alex Mayzlin

Every girl dreams of her wedding day!  Perhaps seldom does a wedding compare so favorably to expectations as this one.  In fact, it is safe to say that this picture-perfect wedding exceeded expectations.  Pamela and Alex’s marriage was a day of pure magic!  This wedding went over the top because of the extraordinary love shown by her wonderful father.  Please join us in celebrating the marriage of Pamela and Alex Mayzlin!

Vendors –
 
Coordination: DFW Events
Ceremony/Reception: The Ritz-Carlton Hotel
Officiant: Rabbi Bard Schachtel
Ceremony Music: Alecia Alexander String Quartet
Ceremony Soloist: Nicole Daniels
Décor: DFW Events
Florist: Rusty Glenn Floral Design
Band: Bullet Proof Brass Band
Russian Singer: Michael Pashin
DJ: Andy Austin
Cake: Crème de la Crème Bakery
Lighting/Ceremony Sound/Rehearsal Dinner AV/Video Games/ Videography: Beyond
Ice Sculptures: Dallas Ice FX
Hair/Makeup: Maitee Miles
Ballet: Lyndette Galen
Living Table/Ballerina: Veronica Phillips
Picflips: Mandi Klossner
Photo Favors: Picstrips