Our guest today is Jennifer Shea Photography based in Great Neck, and which caters to the entire tri-state area.

Q:  When choosing a photographer  there are endless options here on Long Island.  How does a couple find one that’s right for them?

A:  There are a number of forums and websites devoted to wedding planning on Long Island. Many of these will include reviews of and/or advertisements from local photographers. The best way to begin is by visiting as many websites as you can — keeping a notebook handy so that you can document those you really like.

Everyone has a different vision of what their day will look like–and finding a photographer who works in a style that complements that vision is imperative. When all is said and done–when the cake has been cut and the final dance is over–it is the photographs that will endure for years to come–providing wonderful reminders of that
special day.

Q:  What type of questions should the couple ask once they find a few professionals that seem appropriate?

A:  Some good questions to ask:

Does the quoted fee include travel?

Is the photographer using a digital or a film camera (despite the
popularity of digital photography–some photographers still prefer to
use film)?

Does the photographer have backup equipment?

Does the photographer have backup photographers they can call upon in the event
they are unable to make it the day of the wedding?

Is the photographer insured?

What is the photographer’s deposit requirement and cancellation policy?

Will the clients receive high resolution jpeg files of the images shot (or the negatives if film is being used) so that they can have the ability to reproduce prints at will?

Be sure to get in writing everything that you and the photographer have agreed upon before signing a contract and giving a deposit.

Q:  Can you recommend great outdoor photo-op spots here on Long Island?

A:  Long Island is an amazingly versatile place. There are the vineyards out east, a number of beaches (including Fire Island), The Planting Fields and the Bailey Arboretum, Old Westbury Gardens and a number of other parks which provide beautiful settings for photographs. Even quirky spots–like Adventureland or Old Bethpage Village can provide
a fun backdrop for some unique photographs.

Q: With so many new, high tech options in wedding photography these days, how can a bride and groom sort all of these out without it taking up a great deal of time?

A:  There is an increasing trend of “special effects” that many photographers utilize. What really matters, however, is the quality of the original image. One can always saturate colors, convert to a sepia tone finish or use selective focus filters to create a more “arty” look to the images later on, but if the original image is not strong to begin with — the ”bells and whistles” don’t matter.

Q:  I’ve heard of couples waiting over a year for their wedding photo albums, and then some wait only months.  How does this disparity happen?

A:  The turnaround time for images and albums should be included in the contract itself. As long as the client has it in writing — they have recourse if the photographer does not keep up their end of the bargain.  It is very important to maintain an open line of communication between the client and the photographer throughout the entire process (from pre-wedding to post-wedding–until all aspects of the contract have been satisfied).

Q:  What’s your best wedding day tip for the couple?

A:  As cliche as it sounds–enjoy your day! No one is going to notice if the napkins are folder from left to right or right to left. Things happen. I’ve photographed weddings where the wrong bouquets were delivered and the place cards were misplaced. You have to just roll with it. So long as you and your significant other are together — among family and friends…nothing else really matters.

Thank you, Jennifer!