Post # 1

Member
9 posts
Newbee
Hi Bees!
I need your help – I’m torn between two photographers and would love to hear what y’all think.
The first one – http://www.nicolecampophotography.com – is Nicole Campo and I *love* her artistic, creative work. I’m looking for somewhat “non-traditional”, artistic photos and Nicole delivers exactly that. However, she is less experienced without many full weddings under her belt. But by my May, 2014 wedding, she will have a lot more experience and she does have a 2nd shooter help cover the wedding. Nicole’s package is $1,000 less than the other one, and includes the bridal (her sessions are each uniquely styled and awesome) and a 24 x 30 print.
The second one is http://www.windypeakphotography.com/#home/ – Windy Peak Photography – they are a great husband/wife team and I really like their work, too. They sound very down to earth, experienced and not somewhat “risky” like Nicole might be. With them, it’s more like I know what I’m getting. However, they are slightly above budget and I would NOT get a bridal session or any prints included.
With Nicole – I trust her to get good images and I think they would be the “different” that I’m looking for. I just don’t have as many examples of full weddings to look at from Nicole. Which concerns me just a tad.
Please check them out and let me know what you think – this is my main priority for our wedding/budget so I want to be absolutely sure before we sign the contract. Thank you!!! 🙂
~ Jenny
Post # 3

Member
3941 posts
Honey bee
I like Windy Peak’s photography more, but not $1,000 more so I voted for Nicole. I also agree with a lot more weddings under her belt by 2014 she will be able to do something great for your big day.
I hired a photographer that had only done 5 weddings by the time he did ours, and now he’s an international wedding photographer star and was recently featured in Popular Photography magazine. I’m a big believer in giving the little fish a chance and I think Nicole has a lot of potential!
Post # 4

Member
367 posts
Helper bee
This one is simple: you pick the one in your budget.
Also, ask Nicole to see her full portfolio – not just what she puts on her web site. Hopefully this will reassure you.
Post # 5

Member
135 posts
Blushing bee
When you’re hiring an inexperienced wedding photographer images aren’t everything you need to consider. Does she know how to run a wedding day? Can she help you consult on timelines etc? Can she calm a mob having a freak out or stand her ground if an uncle starts trying to sidetrack the family shoot to the location of his choice. Weddinphotographers need to know a lot more than just taking the photos.
Post # 6

Member
307 posts
Helper bee
Definitely go for Nicole! She has great shots and in fact I prefer her work. Plus, she is in your price-range!
I don’t think you should worry about her being a risk. As long as you look hard at the contract, the fact she has a whole season of weddings still to add to her portfolio would put my mind at ease. It is really important that you are comfortable with your photographer (I hear, I’m having a destination wedding so unfortunately have no choice on that!)
Post # 7

Member
512 posts
Busy bee
Have you met both in person yet? That might be a huge deciding factor if you’re not comfortable with one of them.
Post # 8

Member
1017 posts
Bumble bee
Go with your gut and choose Nicole!
Post # 9

Member
9 posts
Newbee
Thank you ladies!! This helps a lot 🙂 I’ve met Nicole in person and have seen more of her full portfolio – she does do all of the traditional shots that I also want, as well as the more creative ones. And her prices are great since she is up and coming! I will talk to her again before booking and review the contract closely for sure. Thank you all so much – I’ll let ya know how it turns out!
~ Jenny
Post # 10

Member
117 posts
Blushing bee
ummm….NICOLE! how is this even a question. haha. personally i would pick her no questions asked.
wendypeak lost me with the flash intro and the fifteen clicks it took to get to the actual wedding portfolio; but beyond that, i think nicole’s body of work is more unique while wendy’s is more cliche, cheesy, standard wedding photography. there is nothing special about it.
it REALLY is about personal preference though. i just happen to like the artistic, dreamy look so please don’t shoot me for saying that!
Post # 11

Member
9 posts
Newbee
inch85 – i know :))) i LOVE nicole’s work and i’m much more into the artistic style – i was looking for someone with a creative, artistic style so that my wedding photos will be unique and pieces of art – and i know that’s what nicole can give me. i was just hesitant to say “yes” with her for a little while….but my gut is telling me to go with her and it will be a wonderful experience and collaboration! thank you so much – i totally agree and just needed some backup 😉 i’m going to write to nicole tonight and book her.
Post # 12

Member
117 posts
Blushing bee
@jennrob02: yay! so glad that could be helpful!! Good luck and please keep us up to date!!!