Hey you Loc: Tampa Florida

My youngest daughter got really duped with the photography company she selected. Ended with Consumer Report having to step in...... They are almost married a year and we are still battling. We looked on line, at portfolios, met in person, and were convinced we selected someone very professional. first she didn't even show up she sent two of her assistants (one we met and had agreed on and then a guy we still have no idea of credentialing) Family members took photo's that actually looked better than what we got (after 6 months) Apparently half the ceremony was lost on a defective SD card that we literally "begged" to get so we could try and retrieve these once in a lifetime pictures.... NO answerer and no card. Now looking into photographer for other daughter and frankly am very skeptical..... Any suggestions would be appreciated.... Wedding Oct, 2-12..... Thanks

Falcon Loc: Abilene, Texas

I would suggest you ask any photographer you are considering for the names of previous customers. If they supply references they will certainly be from happy customers, but you can ask those folks some leading questions, which may beget other questions, which may ... etc. Also ask to see samples of their work. They will show you their absolute best and you can judge their lighting techniques, skill at composition, thoroughness, and so on. You might also ask for references on your own from the Bridal shops in the area. I'm sure they hear all of the gossip. Finally, check with the Better Business Bureau. They really can't do much for you, but they will tell you how many complaints they have had about the business. No complaints doesn't mean much since that only means they haven't had anyone complain to the BBB. More than one or two complaints is a read flag waving in a high wind.
Lots of work, but so is the whole wedding. It's a shame you had such a disaster with the first daughter.

Jacquie

I so worry when I take Wedding Pictures that the SD Card goes bad, but to resolve it, I hire another person to come with me, we get double shots, but that is ok with me. I hate it for you that happened. I hope you got your money back. I agree with Falcon, you must get references, word of mouth is better.

Erv Loc: Medina Ohio

Back in the day, I had all the pictures of the weddings I shot in albums. Folks were always able to view them. And I always gave out names. I would give the people a 10% discount if I could use them for references. If they don't show you some of their work I would not show them your money. :D
Erv

Jacquie

I don't put all my Wedding Pictures in Albums, but I still choose the best ones just in case someone doesn't use the computer or have one. Yes still in this day it happens, I have parents who want to see my pictures but can't or won't use a computer. I have gotten wiser and on Go Daddy.com I made my own Web Site, it's much easier than showing Wedding Albums.But just in case, I use the old way. lol

Erv Loc: Medina Ohio

I don't think they had computers back then! :-D But I'm not that old so I don't know. :mrgreen:
Erv

BuckeyeBilly Loc: St. Petersburg, FL

Hey you,
I feel so bad for this whole situation. For this next time, look for a photographer that has his own studio that YOU can physically go to. Ask if he/she uses film or digital to shoot the photos. No matter which method is used, ask them what they do in case of camera failure. Ask if there is a written agreement that spells out everything---and then read it yourself before you sign anything. If there is a budget for this wedding, then you may consider re-arranging the expenses because it will be worth it to hire a professional, one who backs up his/her word. All the flowers, decorations, food, etc. will be gone as soon as the ceremony is over but your photos, the memories that are captured, last a lifetime, and that is why your money needs to be spent wisely. Check out these photographers in Tampa:

http://www.aflyphoto.com/#

http://www.carriewildes.com/

http://www.photographybygray.com/

ole sarg Loc: south florida

Go to a local photographer who has a store and a window. One who displays his work in that window.

You get what you pay for and for a wedding pay

Phocus Loc: Lakeland, Fl

David Zissel find him on Scott Kelby's site or napp he is awesome. He is in Tampa /St. Pete area

strobe Loc: Central Iowa

The photographer will give you his best references. Ask those people who else has used the photograper. That way you talk to someone not referred by the photographer in question.