Weddingbee boards

Hey Brides!

Thanks FinallyGettingMarried for the props and the shout-out! I just want to encourage each of your in your search, wherever that may be, for a great photographer. I've had the opportunity to work with and get to know some of the most sought after photographers of San Francisco (Cliff Brunk, Luke Goodman, Ben Chrisman), and ultimately I think what sets them apart is not only the consistent quality of their images, but their personality. When I begin working with clients I try to develop the kind of relationship that would make me the kind of friend they would want at their wedding even if I wasn't there with a camera (or two... three).

I am convinced that each of you can find this kind of photographer, and wish you the best. Often what starts to determine pricing is the length of time a person has been in the business (which translates into a referral base). Cliff Brunk, for example began shooting 4 years ago for 1,900 for full day coverage. Now if you want an album you're going to end up over 8k. I think the quality of his photography has changed minimally (was awesome, is awesome). What has changed is that everyone now knows about him.

I think this is actually good news for you brides. You can find your proverbial diamond in the rough. Find a photographer that other photographers speak highly of, (and check out a full wedding of theirs) this may be the up and coming guy or gal that is going to be charging 8k in four years. I think may be on that track, but one of the great things about where I am now is that I get to work with people that do have a budget like most of my friends, rather than most of my photography friends. 

Another thing to keep in mind is that most photographers will travel for minimal costs. If you like a photographer in another state, just ask them. You may be surprised at the types of photographers you can bring in from the hotspots of wedding photography (people in new york, san francisco, and santa barbara like to travel!)

Good luck brides. You can do it! Hope this is encouraging to all of you!

http://www.douglaszimmerman.com/

He's our photographer. His prices are very reasonable and he shoots in a photjournalistic style. He's not realy big on posey-posey shots other than the traditional couple/bridal party/family shots, and his focus is simply documenting the day exactly as it happens. His base package starts at just under $1,000.

I had my wedding at the begining of March and our photographer, Lindsey Cahill, did a fabulous job!  We also had her for an engagement shoot and that went really well too.  We took pictures at a couple spots around Golden Gate park and I absolutely love how her pics turned out!  She's as artsy as you want to be and very open to any ideas that you may have.  I highly recommend her and she was able to adjust to our budget (which was also below $3,000).  Here's her website:

http://www.lindseycahillphotography.com/