Back in the early ’90s, when everything was still on rolls of film that required you to get them developed, I was on the hunt for my wedding. Back then you needed to look things up in the phone book, you relied on word of mouth and your gut instincts….
Here I was, 6 months out from my wedding, traveling to the destination, I was on a mission. I needed to figure out who was available and book them for our wedding ASAP. I’m talking, church, priest, accommodations, hair makeup, reception, etc…
I headed off early in the morning, I had a list of places and people to check out. Photographers were at the start of my list. I had 3 appointments and got started on my interviews. The first 2 where good, however, there was nothing dazzling about their personality or portfolio…. Feeling a little dismayed I headed off to meet the 3rd one…..OMG, he was sparkle! I had no idea how he would impact my life but in my first meeting with him, I was in awe. He met me in his own house, he was friendly, approachable, and a good listener. He really understood hospitality by making sure I felt at home offering me a cup of espresso. I really liked his demeanor. When I asked to see his portfolio, after the 4th page I just knew I was in the presence of an artist. He was the epitome of a fine gentleman who really takes pride in his art and truly cares.
Immediately I ask “are you available on my wedding date?” he said “yes!”
Without a second thought my next question was “what do I need to do to book you for that day?”, smiling he asked for a deposit. Without hesitation, I wrote the check. I was so happy! We continued to visit for almost 2 hours, it literally felt like I was chatting with a friend that I have known for years. We were laughing sharing stories and going over all the wedding details. He was giving me pointers like how important it was to wear a corset. (remember this is film times) he wanted to capture my dress flawlessly without lines, I smiled in delight, he was so good!
He then preceded to give me the scoop on everything about his hometown, when I mentioned flowers, he directed me to the best florist in town;
When I mentioned makeup, pedicure, hairstyle, his face illuminated and directed me to the best makeup and hairstylist ever. Granted I had only a little experience with professional makeup and hair at this point in my life;
When I asked for suggestions on where to host my rehearsal dinner, he directed me to a wonderful restaurant that catered exclusively for us that night;
And finally, as I was leaving, I said; well we’ve knocked off most of my list all I have left is transportation to arrive at the church. I really did not want to do the whole limo thing.
Again his face illuminated and he said: “come!”
We got outside and he clicked the garage door as it was lifting up I just could not believe my eyes; it was a white Cadillac with a rolls Royce front! are you serious? Laughing his now familiar to me hearty laugh he said this will be your transport. He very mattered a fact. He explained that he has a cousin that does bodywork and his thing is putting the rolls Royce front on the Cadillacs.
WHAT? I could not stop laughing.
He said he will meet me at the suite after makeup and hair and will shoot several photos, He will drive me, my MOH and flower girl to the church. He told me his vision of having us stay in the car as guests arrive and he would go out and take the groom photos. Once everybody is seating in the church, I will come to get you.
OMG, he was in charge and I was so grateful.
The night before the wedding as planned we met with him after the rehearsal, he wanted to see the dress and check on us to see how we were doing. I could tell he was really excited to see his vision coming together.
On the day of the wedding, he arrived as planned and was especially pleased to see how my hair was done. “Oh my god”, he said, “he did a swept up “up-do” (best hair ever). I was so impressed to see my new friend the photographer elegantly dressed in a black suit, he was polite, in charge, followed etiquette, and never missed a beat. He delighted all my guests with his charming personality all while taking photos.
I made sure to include him as a guest too, he was welcomed and shared a full dinner set. I made sure to place him at “the singles table” the laughing that came from that part of our venue during dinner was music in my ears.
Here’s the thing, when I met with him I never asked how much everything was going to cost? What was important to me was to make sure I had a great fit for my wedding. After paying the deposit, we agreed on shooting 6 rolls of film.
It did not occur to me to even ask for the negatives? Absolutely not!
When our proofs were ready, the photos where beautiful!
We bought a large 12x16 album, 3 small parents’ books, a proof book with all the proof shots and ordered several different sizes large, medium and small prints.
I have cherished that day deeply, he really looked after us, added a personal touch to everything and really made the photos a big part of an experience for us and our guests.
Many people choose their photographer based on nothing more than price or a couple of pretty photos on their website, believing every photographer provides exactly the same service and all they need to do is to get the best deal.
I think I just proved wrong!