For the country club portion, without prints, the cheapest quote I've received is $2500. I'm either asking the wrong questions or have the wrong expectations. What should I be asking and what kind of price should I be looking for? Thanks in advance!!
Congratulations, Eduard! It sounds like it's going to be a beautiful wedding . . . 1700's house. . .wow.
You, as a photographer, recognize a top quality photograph. Most brides and grooms don't. My best photo shoots were the ones where the clients gave a lot of thought to what kind of images they wanted and were able to tell me and let my creativity take over.
Go through the location, decide where you want your formals taken and what you want them to look like; make a list of "special moments " you want photographed, and I would definitely ask what kind of lighting they're going to use. You should be able to stage exactly what you want. Also ask, how many images you get to pick from and copyright/personal use licenses. You said no prints are included. Are you expected to purchase them through the photographer or do you print your own from a CD/DVD? Do they include the DVD in the cost?
$2500 is not unreasonable for a good photographer, especially in your area. There's a lot more time involved in bridal portrait PP. . . the photos are going to be around for generations so you do want them to be nearly perfect.
Bottom line, Eduard, discuss with your bride exactly what you want and find the photographer to fit that (look at sample work and ask the photographer which are his/her favorites --that will give you an idea of the style). You can always negotiate --e.g. ask them to include some prints, etc. Take a a look at some of David Ziser's photos to get an idea of good wedding photography if you need.
Hope this helps. Good luck!
