Hey All,
I've been an observer on this sub-forum for a while. I'm getting married at the end of the year and I'm asking friends and family on photographer recommendations as well.

However, I've seen some really good stuff from you folks and there are a few people in the Chicago area. Hopefully you guys can make some recommendations?

Also, side question is how much to expect for a wedding + reception cost?

 

congrats!


believe it or not, I think there are forums ON wedding photographers... where you can actually see samples of their work. And I guess ratings too. So, if they had complaints (perhaps due to lack of experience), you would at least know.

it's a big day, I'm sure you only plan on walking down the aisle ONCE... there's NO "second takes" on certain moments.

good luck

 

You may want to shoot srika a pm. He's in Chicago and one helluva photographer.

 

 

I hate the 5 minute edit!!

Also, I think svtmike's brother(in law?) is a photographer - not sure if he's also in Chicago or not, but worth an ask.

Cost is all over the map. This is an industry where you largely get what you pay for. My packages start at $2000 and go up to >$4000 with albums, full printing rights, and "Specialty Sessions" such as Engagement sessions, etc. I'm sure that sounds pricey, but I'm actually very middle-of-the-road in my pricing structure. Whatever you do, please don't hire a $500 photographer from Craigslist. As good a deal as it may seem, chances are far greater that you'll regret it than not. Anyone truly making this a business can't subsist on that, and many are shooting with entry level cameras, one or two consumer-level lenses, no insurance, and no backup gear.

Feel free to ask questions if we can help you with any specific questions when you get to the contract stage or if you're just curious whether a policy is standard, etc. An educated consumer is usually a happy consumer!

 

ohh yea make sure you dont hire a "professional" wedding photographer that shows up with a rebel XTi, 18-55mm lens and 70-300mm lens.

 

I think wedding photography is one thing you don't want to fck up. Here are a few recommendations that my friends used.

www.twaphoto.com

http://www.nakaiphotography.com

 

I shot at a a wedding for a friend a few years ago (for fun) - their pro photographer had an XTi. I felt like she kept giving me weird looks all night lol. btw they used one of my first dance pictures on the thank you card they mailed out to everyone.

oh and thanks for the mention wndrlst but I don't think I have enough experience to be considered "a wedding photographer in Chicago". yet.

 

We are going to look at some restaurants in Chicago for our wedding this week. Then I'm off to find a photographer as well. Keep us posted on what you find.

 

Just trying to tie in the judge Joe brown thread with this one...

 

you know what I hadn't even watched that video until just now. hilarious.