Yes, prices do go up when the W word is mentioned. This is not another office function, after all – it is a once-off, intensely personal event in two peoples’ lives.
Let’s look at 3 big-ticket vendors…
The Pictures
According to Klerksdorp Weddings resident photographer Donovan Roets, wedding photographers are not ripping anyone off with their invoices.
Apart from photographers’ overhead costs in terms of equipment and insurance, it is not a case of showing up, snapping a few shots and then releasing them to the couple. Building the relationship is very important – the photographer must get to know the couples’ personalities, so that they can know what the couple will be comfortable with, and how far they can take them to get that once-in-lifetime shot. The couple also needs to have a comfortable relationship with the photographer - any tense emotions will come through in the photo’s on the Day. Photographers also scout out the church and reception venues to ensure that they get good shots, and access alternative shots for when the weather is bad. The couple and bridal party shots are often at a different location too, which involves more travelling and assessment.
Planning and post-production take up huge amounts of time too. On the wedding day, the photographer is with the bride from early morning, and is on-duty until the reception shots are done. Then the editing and processing of the photo’s start – one wedding can often take up two weeks of a photographers’ time.
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Stretch your rands -
- With our wealth and depth of experience in local photographers, brides do not need to bring in photographers from out of town – which come with travelling costs.
- Out of season nuptials can once again result in reduced rates in most cases. Just ask.
- Less well known photographers may charge less, as they need to build their portfolio. Always insist on seeing examples of their work, and do be careful if they are just starting out.
- Ask about package deals – perhaps you could get a discount if the photographer does your engagement and wedding photo’s.
- Perhaps your photographer also offers a gift voucher service, where family and friends can contribute to the cost of your most tangible memories of your Beautiful Day.
- Rather get the very best photographer and fewer prints, than a lesser photographer with more photo’s.
ARE THOSE COSTS FOR REAL?
Yes, we know, you want to shout it from the rooftops! “We’re getting married!”. You start making calls to vendors, and everyone is giving you advise, and you soon start to wonder if you should even mention the Wedding word. Is it true that prices go up when weddings are mentioned? Are you really being exploited? Is it a rip-off?