Vendor Chats
Featuring; Shea Owens Photography
This week's featured vendor is Shae Owens Photography. Shae is one of our wonderful vendor members of Our Little Black Book network, who always relates wonderfully to her clients. She has kindly agreed to share with us her talented and creative mind. Following are the five questions and answers that we feel will offer valuable information to anyone who is currently, or will be looking for a photographer that will help create those everlasting memories!
Besides cost and style, what do you think a couple should look for in a good photographer?
"A couple should always consider personality and a friendly connection with the photographer - the photographer is the closest vendor (besides the coordinator/consultant) they will work with before, during and after. For the most heartfelt, comfortable and realistic emotions captured in a photograph, the photographer must have a connection with the bride and groom beyond just a hired-hand for the day. It means more to me to have developed a relationship with the bride and groom prior to the wedding day - I already have earnd their trust so I'm one less worry for them on the big day."
Can you give us some pros and cons of outdoor photos? How about indoor photos?
"A good photographer can make the most of any opportunity indoor or outdoor. The key to remember: photograhy is about light. Outdoor lighting is always changing due to weather, clouds, shade, the sun setting, etc. Indoor lighting is not so variable but every room in the same church or any location is guranteed to have varying lighting. The photographer must compensate by utilizing existing lighting but also be prepared to add professional lighting as required."
Realistically, to capture the most important moments, what would be the minimum house of coverage a couple should do?
"A minimum of four hours is acceptable but I recommend five hours to consider enough coverage of details and preparation time prior to the wedding and, of course, the most fun shots to photograph - the bride and groom alone! Long receptions don't necessarily need complete coverage if it's hours of dancing the night away, but a departure shot/farewell should be considered and staged if the photographer is not booked for the entire time."
Do you have a favorite wedding moment from all the ones you've shot?
"I have lots of favorite moments from EVERY wedding! My favorite shot is always the first time the groom sees his bride - there is always sooooo much love and awe in his eyes. One of my favorites from last year was the bride (the only daughter and youngest child) dancing with her father - he was crying and she wiped his tears. I was crying and shooting at the same time (that happens alot!), but it was the most precious moment I've seen between a father and daughter at a wedding. What a blessing to be a part of someone's day like that! And an honor to capture it!"
What one tip would you give a bride in the throws of planning?
"Definitely limit the number of each vendor the bride interviews. When you have too many choices things start to get confusing and overwheliming. Go with your gut feeling, if you make a great connection with a vendor and the logistics can be worked out, go for it. Sit back and let them to their job. That is what you are paying them for!"
Happy Picture Taking!!
