We talked recently about making every moment count—even if that means snapping a few shots with a camera phone to prevent missing the opportunity completely. Today, we want to examine the other side of that coin: why it’s important to hire a professional photographer.
While no one can expect to have professional photographers follow their children every day all day like paparazzi attempting to catch each adorable little thing they do on a daily basis, it’s important to schedule frequent child or family sessions. Moments are fleeting, you’ll never get one back. Photographs are a those priceless moments frozen in time. Professional photographers are more than just a fill-in for your tripod while you arrange your family and pray they smile as you set the timer on your shiny new DSLR camera. Professionals are experienced. They recognize lighting opportunities and take advantage of the best angles. They use techniques that they have honed over years of practice. They edit your photos to make sure you get nothing but the best.
Sure, your best friend’s uncle has a camera with a huge lens. Does this mean you should have him take your wedding pictures so you can save a couple bucks? A few weeks ago we heard yet another horror story from a bride. She was going to have her cousin take their wedding photos as a gift—what an amazing wedding present! Her cousin was no photographer, but had a nice camera. Now imagine how devastated this bride was when she received the call that something had come up last minute and the cousin could no longer make it to the wedding. Professional photographers have contracts that protect both parties. This is an example why they are so important.
Professional equipment is another important factor in the equation. While the camera, lens or flash certainly doesn’t make a photographer a pro, it doesn’t hurt the quality of your final images. Most professionals have spent years building their collection. This means that they not only have access to quality equipment, but know how to use it.
A photograph is not just some ink on a piece of paper or a file on the computer. A photograph is a priceless moment. It’s an investment.