SPENDING LOTS OF $ ON WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY - personal views here!

[canbear]

I thot it'll be good or interesting to get opinions from everyone here on what they feel about spending lots of $ on taking their bridal photos, be it pre-wed, ROM, overseas, or actual day.

I think it'll be useful if past couples who have married can also contribute/advise here. (Hopefully they will find some reason to come back to this forum!)

From what I see, and from my asking around those who have married, it's really pointless to spend a lot on wedding photos. You know, the kind where you get pushed by the studios to buy more and more. Nowadays I also notice some spend a HUGE amount to go for overseas shoot.

Your views may differ that's ok, but personally, yes, I think it's lavish spending. Maybe if you earn $10k or more per month things may be diff. But I'm amazed that even those who are earning much less are willing to splurge. Then they chalk up tons of credit card bills and complain No Money for this and that after marriage!

The truth is, after the wedding, those albums will be chucked away in the storeroom to collect dust. Or in some deepest parts of the cupboard. This is what ALL my couple friends who have married told me.

That's quite true. I remember being so enthusiastic about my graduation pics. Today? I don't even bother taking them out. If you ask me to, I will have to think twice about looking at them again!

The common protest I hear ladies give is, "But wedding is a once in a lifetime experience, I want it to be very special and look nice". Most certainly. But you can feel special and look good without spending a bomb isn't it? It's the process that you go thru with your spouse that is special, not the external issues.

You can spend $10,000 on just the photos which really will be stowed away once it's over. Or use it for other useful purposes that will last a lifetime, such as planning for a kid.

Seriously, I can't remember what my colleagues and friends wore on their wedidng days no matter how special they were. No one talks about it anymore once they are over. No one cares. Why should they?

Unfortunately, bridal studios capitalize on this and almost hypnotize couples to believe that weddings are special and that they should spend thousands of $ on their wedding day and photos.

Getting married is just a process. Not that it's not impt. Yes, it's a special day that requires some prep, but what's a lot more impt is the life to come after that.

A friend of mine was the first to ROM at the Singapore flyer. He and the gal spent literally thousands to book the ride, on photography, on the banquet, on an $8k diamond ring, on designer gowns....

Guess what. They've just divorced! Of cos, I'm not bringing this up as a common case but it really makes me wonder, What is really the true meaning of a blissful marriage, beyond all the hype about getting the most classy dresses, expensive overseas trips and photographer.

All these that I have mentioned probably apply more to those who are "commoners" or low-middle income earners. If you can afford anything you desire, then by all means, full steam ahead if nothing bothers you!

For those couples who are fretting or feel frustrated on what to do, how much to spend, be it on photography or choosing a hotel, etc, I'd say Relax. Unless you are a celebrity or wealthy person, just enjoy the process. When it's over, it's over. REAL life goes on.

Please contribute your views here what how you feel about the issue...

 

[growoldwithme]

Hi David,

Are you married?

If you are, I trust that you and your married friends are blissfully in marriage, enjoying every bit of it real time, that you haven't had the motivation to dig out the heavy album to flip through =P

To me, my priority at the wedding preparation is Photos and Videos. Cos at times of argument and maybe the day when either of us graduate from Life, these photos and videos will be the key to unlock bits and pieces of the beautiful memory, the moments with love and laughters we've once shared. As FujiFilm has it, Memories Fade but Photos don't LOL!

These memories unlocked will be a great power to enable us the courage to forgive, to remember to love, or to live on.

And cos that's all I can bring out of the wedding and hug on for decades other than my hubby.

In my humble opinion, while good things comes with a bigger price tag, and marriage is indeed once in a lifetime which we do not want to risk any possible regrets, we should probably spend within our means.

Afterall, wedding is a celebration of a couple's union, the families' love and the friends' blessings. So shouldn't it be the people factor that's crucial? I believe true friends will be happier celebrating with you in an attap house knowing your ability, than mourning with you after the wedding when you're fretting over tons of debts.

That said, I still maxed my ability to get great photographers, videographers and beautiful venue with great food, to enhance the beauty of this big day.. and never once regret any of the choices made =)

 

[raywen]

David and Vera, agree with both your standpoints. I believe that the "once in a lifetime" tagline or mentality does make couples go with the wind in terms of spending.

I believe the main point that you guys want to get across is "spend within your means". I totally agree with that.

Also agree with what David has said, I seriously doubt anyone in my guest list are gonna remember what my wedding gown or how beautiful or great the food is; I feel as long as I and my other half are happy, feel happy and as long as the bride is decently pretty on that day, that's enough for me.

My thinking is as long as the venue is not such a drab place and I as the bride aint ugly by standards, that should suffice cos that's all people will remember.

As for photos, my personal take a little like Vera but not fully. I believe in at least having some photos as keepsakes but I draw the line and I say no to excessive printing of more photos esp the studio ones. The actual day ones, long as it shows the relevant process of chronicling the actual day and moreover I have them all in soft copies (which means I can view them anytime on the laptop) I am fine with just a decent photographer who does the job of taking nice clean shots. Honestly I dun care about the style, journalistic, candid, natural, comic etc or watever.

Marriage is indeed once in a lifetime, and I subscribe to the less is more theory. I would rather have less of things, be it photos, videos, gowns etc..I know i can lament and regret not taking that many shots (provided I am *fingers crossed* happily married and enjoying my next phase of life with my husband) OR

I am sure I will find it a waste of taking so many photos or any excessive spending etc IF I happen to not be in a rosy spell with my other half after marriage.

Oh well.. i guess thatz life; it seldoms goes the way you want it. So my only wish is not for the wedding to be all smooth; most important to me is LIFE after the wedding when the fog has faded.. hee... just hopes that I can grow old and happy with my other half and pray God, please not have to marry twice. haha..

*now my short term goal is that I wont be tempted to print more pictures than my allocated number no matter how bloody heavenly I look ^_^.*

 

[canbear]

Hi Vera and Raywen:

Vera, I've just married.

I can't seem to find a definite standpoint in your comments, but it does seem you lean towards putting priority in spending on the material aspects of the wedding. Like I said, no right or wrong, as long as you feel comfortable with it and not go financially broke after that.

But I don't think it is common for a couple to take out their wedding pictures or review the video to cool off when they are in an argument.

Really, all those photos will be nice to view perhaps immediately after you get it, on the wedding day itself, and when you show your friends at work a week later.

After that, it's cold storage. Videos are probably worst -- you might not view them again at all till perhaps your kid grows up many years later to relive shortly the past memories?

But that's not to say, Forget it, don't hire any photographer. I just think/advise for those couples who are earning just enough to lead a barely comfy life here in Singapore, don't fret yourself over the photography part, like employing which photographers who charge $2,3,4,5k! Or even getting the glamorous gowns, biggy diamond rings etc.

Like I said, enjoy the process and once the wedding is over, all these material things are no longer as significant as before. It's a new phase of life with new challenges.

raywen: Looks like you've thot it all out logically. *thumbs up* Yes, ease up on the photos part. But it's easier said than done sometimes.

If you think about it, there's no end to it. No matter where you take the pics, local or overseas, no matter how many pics your photographer takes, it's still you. Just diff background and poses.

So yes, the key point is, spend within your budget.

And yes, I don't remember now how my nice female friends were dressed when they got married. In fact, during the actual wedding, we sometimes only got a glimpse of the bride cos the ballroom was so big! So ironic huh? We just ate the dinner, and wished to go back home asap. Doesn't this sound familiar? After that, another day has passed. No one cares about it anymore. These days, no one even gives out photos to guests anymore like in the past!

Really, you'll be tempted when you see the final prints but remember this motto: "Pick the best, and discard the rest!" Once the wedding's over, it's really over.

Have fun!

 

[chanll]

Well as for mi, wedding is a once in a lifetime thing hence i'm willing to spend but also depending on my budget. Even if i could afford i dont think i would wanna spend so much too. There is always a limit to something tat you will wanna pay for isn't it? For me my concept is i'll rather save up more and spend more on my honeymoon. Like go to a further country tat i've consider for a long time before going. See the beautiful scenary and all.

 

[bride21]

I spend as minimal as I felt I could agree with haha (RM 2k+) on my BS.. but spent more on my actual day wedding with photography/videography... and I'm really glad I did take up the videography... initially i felt that video-ing is jus too ex and waste of $$ [we both jus started working] so $$ is a strain..

but after the wedding.. looking thru the video really makes me go thru my wedding day once more... so far only half a year... haha but I looked thru my video more times than my photos..

these happy memories are worth taking down yet really not worth splurging...

That's my stand.. haha

 

[wyy]

Agree....with almost all said here

After married for 2 yrs, I am still glad i did not put away the thoughts of getting a VG for my wedding cos when ever I see the video, I can feel the atmosphere again.

As for the wedding pic, is good to have a wedding album to show children and kids when aged but spending too much on it is really not worth.

One pity is I dun have VG for my AD dinner else can capture more action.....AD photos, for me,also more important than wedding album cos from there I can feel the blessing given by the guests who attended my wedding...

 

[gracelourdes]

david, it's interesting tat u would post this here...but nevertheless, it's a v good underlying issue tat alot of ppl do realise but eventually still succumb to that 'temptation'

speaking for myself, i'm also one of those brides who want to have a special wedding...everything or almost everything must be special also...hehehe...(i mean, which bride doesn't?)

but then again, rationally, it would be totally ridiculous to overspend thousands n thousands just for tat 1 day when u have to spend the rest of ur life together in debts...not forgetting tat usually after or before wedding would come the house n reno...subsequently, kids would come along etc etc...

i guess the essentials for wedding is still impt...but the most impt thing is, trying to get the 'best' with a cheaper tag but not looking cheap would be the trick...

but totally agree tat much as us brides would like to make it special, ultra impt etc etc, ultimately to many of the guests, it's going to have dinner...ur wedding dinner...after the dinner, they'll prob throw ur wedding favours...forget wat wedding gown or evening gown u wore...

nevertheless, i still agree on spending wisely on memories or rather, items or stuff tat would create memories n recreate memories as n when u decide to clean ur cupboards...hahaha...

most imptly i guess would be to make ur day special...spend min. on photography, photoshoot album top ups (dun even spend on the top up if possible) etc etc...all in all, it'll add up to alot

anyhow, i guess a good tip for the top up thingy would be to ensure tat u really got a good basic pkg where they provide many pics...like for mine, i managed to get mine in penang...it's pkg pics of 50 pics alrd...dun tik i would want to top up for so many more...somemore, the pkg is only RM3k++...

 

[acneery_gal]

Its an intertesting tpoic here.. Well I had just taken my photoshoot not long back. I somehow agree with David that not much ppl would remember how nice your gowns are or your wedding album are after the dinner. As I tried to recall my friend's wedding and so far I cant recall much at all. However, if I am rich enough and do not mind soending on all these special and expensive things to enhance my whole wedding though as I am sure everyone wants to be the best on that day.

So I also did not top up for my album photo and stick to traditional one pose per page type for my album. I save the $ for my honeymoon to a better place hee which I think its more memorable and fun.

As such, I guess it voice down to the budget that one has... if I am rich I really would not mind to top up my album to $1k or more but must have limit also la

 

[dodolet]

I do not believe in spending so much for an album, so I did haggle about 40+ photos in the initial package. I have also requested for 1 pose to not more than 5 pages with max 2 poses per page type of album from BS, as I wanna use as many pages as possible too.. ^^

Anyway I with my selected photos, I am currently diy my own design album, A4 size coffee book with soft cover with photobook singapore. It cost about S$54 i think, to make it and it is pretty portable as it is A4 size big and about 1cm thick. They come in smaller sizes are much cheaper too.

Alternatively, just buy back all the raw photos in jpg without topping up to the album and diy your own album.

 

[janicececiliathomas]

Sometimes I think couples spending too much on the bridal studio/pictures and too little on the customary day photo/video.
I mean nowadays you know how much the bridal studio are charging like $90 per additional page.

So when the big day draws nearer the couple is left with very little budget at all for customary day videography/photography. And if there is no initial budget set aside for that then you really would have a problem because there are so many miscellaneous costs that pop out other than AD videography/photography.

Just last month my colleague was asking me for the contact of my photographer and was asking if he is available for less than $800. I was shocked, because I believe she spent like more than 5K on the bridal studio package in total!

 

[veracity]

Thanks everyone, I really enjoyed reading this thread over lunch

I'm planning for my wedding at end-09 and yes, this is 1 thing I'm really in a dilemma now about also. For me, all along I've felt tt PG (photography) is one of the thgs I'd be willing to spend on. But the sentiments here have also echoed what I've heard elsewhere - after awhile, the pics really don't matter all tt much.

1 new "revelation" I have from this thread though is tt VG can be impt eventually - coz I didn't really see it as so.

Really must have wisdom on how much to spend on PG...

 

[dodolet]

Actually I think to spend more on the AD photography and videography should be more worthwhile than to have "static" studio shots.

For me, I wanted to video the moments and the emotions of the day, such as the subtle changes in emotions when my dad gives me up to my fh and the laughter and the joy of the JMs tekanning the groom. These I felt can never fully be captured by the photographer, no matter how good they are.

But all these wants are usually a gal's wants. My FH has a different view, and his take is, as long the event is covered, and can be remembered some how, in a photograph, it is good enough... I finally got my video when I said I can always replay back the videos and remember y i married that guy.. ^^

Anyway nowadays, the VGs and PGs in SG does give discounts when u get them together. There are some cost savings. So this is a point that be considered.

 

[veracity]

I've a question - do you all think PW or AD photography is more impt?

A related qn is, do you think a PW PG (photographer) needs more skill or an AD PG?

Think my fiance had a point when he said AD PG, coz if they don't capture the moment, it's gone forever whereas PW PG can re-pose you...

Even as I'm planning, I'm just wondering wch I may wanna spend > on...

 

[nixxy]

Photography is definitely on my priority list too. I'm one of those who splurge on it, 5 digits to cover ROM, pre-wed and AD. My SO used to think photos are all the same, as long as its clear and faces do not get cut off halfway, its good enough but after going through a few photographers with me, he agree to go for the one I chose as he learn how to appreciate good ones.

My dad is a photographer and since young I'm trained to at least see the beauty in good photography. The concept, the story behind each image is sometimes just breath taking.

I understand Vera's stand on taking courage from the memories locked in the photos. It's less of a heated arguement but more of a slowly drifting apart relationship or a relationship that lost its spark. Sometimes in our busy life we feel neglected by our SO and going through the album let us feel loved all over again.

 

[gabriellek]

Hi

i spent about $8k+++ on my studio/ pre-wedding photos, and am very happy with them. I feel that this is a personal opinion matter, and i know people who've spent more than 10k, and some less than 3k. to each his own.

For me, my photos will always remember me of the very moments i felt when we were preparing our wedding. It's a mixture of excitement, joy, anticipation, etc, and i will be reminded whenever i look at those photos.

To prevent these photos from "never seeing daylight", ie. being kept in the store room and never taken out, you can take your negatives and put it into a collage and frame it up. We're going to do that once the renovation is done. The collage will be hung on the wall there, opposite my dining table.

How much to spend on photos will also be dependent on financial capability (if not even $$ then don't take photos, because there's so much to a wedding that require $$). even if no photos, there's nothing wrong.

 

[kim_angelyn]

Our wedding is in about 2 mths plus time. *Grin*

Initially I was all the hype & excited about the prewedding PS, especially seeing my gf around me having such wonderful & gorgeous pics (That can be such an influence, hahaha), and it kindof makes me feel envy and thought that I will be willing to splurge on the album and probably get two!!! ;p

But after pondering for sometimes, my h2b and me believe that to capture the wonderful moments of AD is more meaningful to us (we are having both solemnisation & dinner on the same day), IMHO ... (^.^)

Therefore, besides the AD PG & VG, we've just decided to engage another PG for our AD.

Oh ya, I agreed that VG is impt!!! It will capture actions and emotions more surreal that pictures somehow or rather can't.... & you can always re-watch and savour those moments over & over convienantly.

I think that there is no right or wrong when it comes to such thing. I don't judge how much others spend on their wedding, whether they should or not, etc...

** Probably tips to BTB planning for their wedding is to set a budget and prioritise whats most important to them. That way, one won't get overwhelm or super broke after the wedding.
(But seriously, this is easier said than done!)

Okok, I've learnt one valuable lesson through all these months of wedding planning, is that hubby & wifey must compromise lah... e.g hubby may think wife too much to spend on certain areas, or certain things can do without.. & vice versa... so have to compromise. I'm sure u know what I mean.

Last but not least "To Each of His Own".

Most important is to be happy with all your choices and no regrets!

Life is short! (^.^)

 

[kawaii13]

This thread is really interesting to read.. Agree that we should spend within our means & dun get yourself into huge debts after the wedding.. For me, I love to view & take photos. So, I had initially planned a huge budget to topup the pre wedding photos & engage a top notch AD photographer. But, after some discussions with my HTB, who is not so keen so spending a bomb on photos. We came to compromise. Instead of topping up PW photos in SG, we went to JB to take another PW bridal package which cost only RM1500 with 26 photos. So, it works up to be around S$25 per photo as compared to the BS in SG which charges us $70 per photo. Assuming, if I top up 26 photos in SG, it will cost me $1.8K but the JB package is only $650. So, I save $1150. Not only in this manner, it help us to save money but I also get to enjoy to wear different gowns & have different images, zhao xing to play with. It is indeed very enjoyable for me. But, of course, you might agrue that it's very tiring & troublesome to redo another PS & go all the way to JB. But, to spend within your means & be happy means having to make some sacrifices, I guess. N, I was really happy with the different look I have from the 2 BS. One make in SG & another in JB.. I really appreciate my hubby to play along with me & was touched that he actually agree to retake the PS as he doesn't like to take photos.. From this, I can tell that he really cares & dote plenty on me..

For my AD PG, I feel in love with a PG with a hefty price tag of $4K. HTB almost dropped his jaw when he heard about the price. Initially, we debated over to engage him but utimately, I want both of us to be happy & decided to enage another PG whose PG skills are still ok to me. I have also enagage his tag partner which means I engage 2 PG for for AD at only 1.5K. So, at least, if i don't like 1 PG style, at least i can fall back on the other..

My story a bit lengthy.. But, this is just my personal experience which I love to share with any further brides who read this thread. There are many ways to plan your wedding, for the once in your lifetime event.. You can choose to splure if you can afford it.. Or, if you do have a small budget, there are always ways, still to make you happy.. Let your money work harder for you ya.. You must need to do more homework & be diligient, like 1 bride also suggest, buying all raws & print outside is only 1 way to save & still be very happy..

 

[zcerd]

Leaving 'wedding photos' aside.

Why do people like to take photos of themselves/others?

Do you take out those photos and view them often? if no, then why spend money buying camera, buying memory cards, sending to print. etc ?

Why 'target' 'wedding photos' only? isit it the same 'logic' ? in the end, u still spend money to have pictures taken.

Simple question. Its your big day, u have spend so many months to prepare just for a day event. Of course you would want it to be document it down properly.

So who can 'document' it down properly? your friends? What if he/she miss some important shots? You blame him/her? In the end, you regret that you should have get someone with experience.

Quoted from the thread starter
"Getting married is just a process. Not that it's not impt. Yes, it's a special day that requires some prep, but what's a lot more impt is the life to come after that. "

LIFE. it come and goes. Picture doesn't. Is this how u appreciate your life? So are you taking things for granted?

EG
Your parents is still alive, so you think, nah. why take picture with them often since they are still here. But what if, some day, out of the sudden, they left you. And you really miss them alot... and.. oh shit..wait a min. I cant find any photos of them at ALL!

another EG
Wedding photos. You engage someone who takes OK only photos. the photos , well, just normal. One day, either you or ur hubby/wife pass away, you take out the photo album, and look thru, you remember that day your hubby/wife was always laughing, smiling, but 90% of the photos you see did not have that.

EG
Yay, you having a child, from tiny little baby to become adult. And no, you did not take photos because in your mind, why take photos since you will chuck it aside and seldom will take it out to see. Then someday, shit happen. you want to see photos....where isit?

Do you guys see the point? Its not about $$, but memories. its PRICELESS.

Different people, different mentality. To you, anyone that can take ok photos, are good enough, but to others, they want beautiful pictures. Something that someday, when they take out the picture and see, all the memories flow out with happiness.

 

[zcerd]

"From what I see, and from my asking around those who have married, it's really pointless to spend a lot on wedding photos."

Why not ask them, why spend time/effort on preparing for wedding. why not just ROM, thats it. You save even more.

" Nowadays I also notice some spend a HUGE amount to go for overseas shoot."

Its the experience & memories that count.

"Your views may differ that's ok, but personally, yes, I think it's lavish spending. Maybe if you earn $10k or more per month things may be diff. But I'm amazed that even those who are earning much less are willing to splurge. Then they chalk up tons of credit card bills and complain No Money for this and that after marriage!"

I think its totally different matters. Spending money on photos and spending beyond their means.

"The truth is, after the wedding, those albums will be chucked away in the storeroom to collect dust. Or in some deepest parts of the cupboard. This is what ALL my couple friends who have married told me."

How old are your couple friends? Now they dont take out the photos and see doesn't mean 20,30 yrs later they wont right?

"That's quite true. I remember being so enthusiastic about my graduation pics. Today? I don't even bother taking them out. If you ask me to, I will have to think twice about looking at them again!"

Sometimes, you take photos is not just for you to look at it yourself. I seriously doubt your mentality towards Life.

"The common protest I hear ladies give is, "But wedding is a once in a lifetime experience, I want it to be very special and look nice". Most certainly. But you can feel special and look good without spending a bomb isn't it? It's the process that you go thru with your spouse that is special, not the external issues."

To you, your expectation of "looks nice" might not be theirs. Your "looks nice' to them might be ugly. How can you compare?


"Seriously, I can't remember what my colleagues and friends wore on their wedidng days no matter how special they were. No one talks about it anymore once they are over. No one cares. Why should they?"

As mention earlier, they dont talk about it now doesnt mean they wont in future. They can tell their kids/grand kids about it.

"Unfortunately, bridal studios capitalize on this and almost hypnotize couples to believe that weddings are special and that they should spend thousands of $ on their wedding day and photos."

If you are not thirsty , no one can force you to drink.

"Getting married is just a process. Not that it's not impt. Yes, it's a special day that requires some prep, but what's a lot more impt is the life to come after that."

Read my previous post.

"A friend of mine was the first to ROM at the Singapore flyer. He and the gal spent literally thousands to book the ride, on photography, on the banquet, on an $8k diamond ring, on designer gowns...."

Guess what. They've just divorced! Of cos, I'm not bringing this up as a common case but it really makes me wonder, What is really the true meaning of a blissful marriage, beyond all the hype about getting the most classy dresses, expensive overseas trips and photographer."

Everyone will have to die, so why do you want to work so hard, and earn money? in the end, you will still die and the money wont go with you.

If they know they will divorce(they can see the future) , you think they will do all those kind of things? Do you buy insurance? if so, why ?



"For those couples who are fretting or feel frustrated on what to do, how much to spend, be it on photography or choosing a hotel, etc, I'd say Relax. Unless you are a celebrity or wealthy person, just enjoy the process. When it's over, it's over. REAL life goes on."

Just spend within your mean. Simple as that. When its over, it is really over. Lucky they took photos of the event. THAT, it wont be over.

 

[smokeyeyes]

Photography is my priority compared to a beautiful gown.

I would rather spend thousands on a good PG and wear cheap gowns or dresses from china than to compromise on the PG.

A good PG captures the moments and expressions for the couple to keep FOREVER, not the dress.. so.. thats my two-cents worth.

Agreed its once in a life time.

 

[revival_production]

Hi, theres a very interesting discussion going on here among brides and grooms, so i thought i should give my view point as a PG.
As we all know,there are 3 defining, most important occasions in life... Birth, Marriage and Death. Among these, Marriage could be the only event when lots (i mean reali alot) of precious moments take place. eg. Parents covering the veil, kissing their daughter with tears brimming in their eyes, gate crashing, the groom kneeling down sending flowers to the bride, parents hugging the daughter, finally letting out their tears... from day to night, there are too many to list. all these happen too fast, and they are way too much a compact or instant camera could handle. This is where we PG come into the story.

Now the cost. How much should we pay? Why spend so much money when after our wedding, the albums would be chucked into the storeroom and collect dust? Seriously, these happen to me,my wife n i thought we could save some money, so we went to a cheap bridal shop and took the cheapest bridal (studio only) photo package.on our wedding, we decide we could save more money by asking our friend(studant at that time) to help take for us. End up, the bridal photos really justified the price (standard cheesy shots and pose which me and wife are not satisfied at all), the AD photos turns out 90% the come-look-at-the-camera-smile photos, and 80% blur due to my friend's spoilt lens.
So, recently, we actualli spent another sum of money, looked for a good photographer to reshoot our bridal.
come to think of it,if we actualli are willing to spend abit more, within our means, for a better bridal studio and a better AD PG, we won't have to spent that extra money anymore. And yes, my wife n i actualli have this vague impression that all of us did smile and laugh alot on our AD, BUT WHERE ARE THE PHOTOS????

However, photo albums collecting dust is still something faced by most couples no matter how much they spent. Reason could be the bulkiness of the albums,photos too boring, bridal photos can find but AD one dunno put where...
So, innovative photographers have been thinking of lots of idea to actualli prevent this type problems.They think of interesting ways to take the photos,to capture the MOMENTS. and with technology these days, putting photos online, digital photoframes, even creating your very own wedding story books became very very easy! Take the book for an example, an idea could be combining photos of the whole wedding process,from rom to bridal to AD,in to a book, this way, the compact book could be kept in the book shelf, or even the magazine rack that are easier to reach...
All and all, PG that do these are trying really really hard to justify the money you spent, and make sure they last you a life time.

Now im here in this thread not for business, but to share what really happen to me and my wife. all i can say is... Yes, spending within your means is important, but spending your money meaningfully is all that matters...

 

[veracity]

In PW photography pkgs from "specialised" photog cos e.g. Avenue 8, Lightbox Productions, Secret Heaven etc, I notice most only return selected images and there are only a handful who rtn ALL PW shots.

Straw poll here: How impt is it to u to get ALL ur PW shots back? [Leave AD photog out - coz they usu rtn all.]

My fiance likes the idea, but personally I don't think it's such a draw. Recalling the case of my graduation photos, it was painful to leave some shots behind when I was selecting but years later when the shop folded and they sent me back all shots out of goodwill, I realise they didn't mean tt much to me after all, &, come to think of it, they didn't look tt great after all I think (guess I did eliminate them w gd reason, no matter how small!).

Forummers', ur thoughts pls.

 

[kim_angelyn]

Tsen Ho,

Well said. I totally agreed that capturing The Moment is indeed priceless!

So, you & ur wifey re-took your prewedding photos? After how long ur AD? That is really sweet...

I personally also think if you pay peanuts, u get peanuts, jmho.

 

[kim_angelyn]

Veracity,

My hubby thought its impt to him to get back all. And I thought "hmm... why not?" after all, these are all our memories, be it good or bad pics taken, hee.

Infact, I have the thoughts of making my own scrapbook album next time with those photos that didn't make it for our prewedding album.

I also think that as a professional good PG, there would not be too much "not nice" pics taken as they are suppose to be experience. And they should have already know which angle or pose will look good. Just my 2 cents.

Therefore, for our prewedding, the total number of pics taken are not many (about 200 plus), but about 90% turns out satisfactory.

 

[veracity]

Bubbles

Who's ur PW photog? Gd onot.

 

[revival_production]

Bubbles,

Glad that we shared the wsame sentiment.
Anyway, we actually re-took our bridal after 1 year plus. and yes, i felt sweet too, coz we felt like we are in love all over again...

 

[kim_angelyn]

Veracity,

Our pre-wedding PG is Andrew Tay, The Edge Photography.
Overall, we are satisfied with him.
A very nice & earnest guy. (^.^)

 

[kim_angelyn]

Tsen Ho,

Its better to be late than never, haha.

After all, I feel that for wedding, just be happy & no regrets! My motto. (^.^)

 

[smokeyeyes]

Hahaha.. I usually pay to have good PG return more images in CD not album so its alot cheaper! that's another idea perhaps you can explore.

I have taken my Pre-Wed with a BS but I am taking again with another STUDIO as I fell in love with the PG style..

I requested for all images in CD so I get more back than taking images in album.

 

[piggytoon]

I find looking at memorable photos could bring back those sweet and nostalgic feeling after a few years of marriage. But I prefer those natural photos that capture the couple in actions, like AD photos or pre/post wedding photos taken when you are on vacation/honeymoon. We took our pre-wedding in Shangrila (this is a real place, not hotel ;-), yunnan last year. The PG took us to different places for 2 days. The views were just breathtaking. It's so perfect that many of our friends thought that the sceneries were background pictures!!! haha... afterwards, we just travel on our own, free and easy. My sis is also doing pre/post wedding and honeymoon travel photo in Bali. PM/email me at [email protected] if you want more info.

 

[sinmay]

Thanks David for creating this threads! I enjoy reading it... and I think it's particularly helpful for the couples r in the wed prep.

Personally, I do have the similar thoughts too! After a few conversation with bridal shops, I felt so reluctant to spend so much on the pre-wed photography.. I would prefer to invest a bit on house deco, honeymoon which I think really help on after marriage life..

 

[idealone]

Photos are so precious. U are only young once and unless you are high society person, you may only be glam once too.

So to take advantage of this once a lifetime oppotunity, I think it's worth the buck buying all the photos. My package was $3888 with 20 photos and 10 digital effects once.

After the session, we loved most of the photos and bought the whole lot for $5k more. With the photos increased to 25 and digital effects increased to 20 plus 2 4R size books of the same quantity.

As for videography, we read horror stories about photographer's cam spoil so we engaged another videographer from another company to do back-ups of the whole events. As well as to shot a MTV, do up the video montage and door bashing moments.

All in all, though it cost quite a lot but we felt that it was well spent and documented in prints and videos. We could still look at them and immerse ourselves in the mood in years to come.

 

[sweetbeng]

We believed that the actual day is most significant to us, so we did away with studio shots and spent more on a good PG and VG on AD.

 

[lalabride31]

Sometime I really feel if it is worth to spend more than $1k for photography and later keep till it grow mold. Like what happens to my friend. She spend quite a few thousand on photography and later she cannot even find her album for me when I went over to check the work of the photographer.

 

[canbear]

"Sometime I really feel if it is worth to spend more than $1k for photography and later keep till it grow mold. Like what happens to my friend. She spend quite a few thousand on photography and later she cannot even find her album for me when I went over to check the work of the photographer."

Oh my.. that's terrible! ;P

I guess different couples have different thoughts on how much to spend. Best is to spend within one's means?

Sim May, yeah, I think striking a balance is more important. If you feel that the extra money can be put to better use elsewhere, then definitely, you are wise to do so.

 

[_dreams_come_true_]

I always believe & want the Best in Life. If something happens in Life which you can't have the Best, then settle for the 2nd best. He/It might be the right one for you afterall.

I love taking photos. I love to see myself in photos, too. I love being in nature. This is something which studio photography can never capture the beautiful scenery around me. I love to have my photos captured in a chic, artistic au naturel manner. I love anything beautiful. Thus for me, it is alright to spend on PG, VG and Gorgeous Bridal/Evening Gowns on my Pre-wedding & Wedding Day.

As my wedding day is still several years ahead, I can start to save now to plan & prepare for My Dream Wedding.

I want to create beautiful memories which can last a Lifetime.

 

[carebearz]

I think it depends on your priorities..For me, as I'm not having a customary wedding so there's nothing 'action-able' for me to remember my wedding by.

Thus, I'm willingly to splurge on wedding photography as it is a way that enables me to remember the process of planning and taking the pictures.

 

[lilostitch12]

I am so entertained reading this thread...= )

Yup, I agree that prioritising is very impt when it comes to planning a budget for your wedding..This will determine where your funds will go to.

For us, we spend a large part of our funds in an overseas PW shoot because we wanted something unusual. After the PW shoot, we proceeded for a holiday.

Even until now, my hubby n myself still thinks that the most enjoyable event during our wedding is the PW shoot. We loved our albums and it is standing proudly in our bookshelf = ) Not lying in some dusty corners of store.

Yes, I do have friends who told me that their albums also ended up in the store. No doubts, if I were them, i might probably do the same as well because there is no meaning reviewing those pictures who are taken by photographers who cannot bring out the best in the couple.

I could still remember vividly that one of the picture shows my friend sitting beside a pond showing her legs dipping into the water. My friend is not exactly the small type and revealing her legs is totally distasteful!! That could probably explains why her album wasnt much appreciated, even by herself.

I also agree with Tsen Ho and Bubbles that there are many ways to keep your photos in this digital age. Most impt is to get your images returned to you.

 

[thommy]

Well said David. Agree with u 101%.

 

[canbear]

Thanks Thomas. I'm glad some of you find this post useful when considering the pros and cons on spending for a marriage.

Zcerd, think you got my objective of this post wrong. I'm not saying don't take any photos or weddings are not important. Neither am I necessarily suggesting you should get friends to do the photography part. (Though I have encountered a few friends who are willing to do this, with reasonable results. As long as the couple are happy why not.)

The objective rather, is for couples to rethink where they are spending their marriage on. I reiterate here again that, if you are financially very stable or wealthy, then this post means little or nothing to you.

But isn't it all too often, whenever the "commoner" is asked: "So when are you going to get married?" The reply is: "Wait long long. No money."

I'm just nudging those couples who are not earning that much or just "starting out" to re-think their spending process on the wedding. I've heard cases where couples get into debt after the wedding. Having a child gets on hold, quarrels take place, etc etc. All because of $.

The bottom line advice I have is: Spend within your means, and don't get sucked into blind peer pressure into getting stuffs well beyond what you can afford.

Really, it's a lot more important maintaining a beautiful marriage than trying to LOOK or ACT beautiful by having posh looking externals just for one a day.

 

[kim_angelyn]

David,

I'm sure you really meant well. (^.^)

And this thread was well created and really interesting as we all get to read each other's so many different opinions.

Just like what your title said "Personal View" mah, heehee...

Yesterday, we've just received our AD photos from one of my PG (Called him A). We were very satisfied with it & feel that its $$$ well spent indeed. (Don't get me wrong, I'm not advertising for him, jz sharing experiences, hee...)

Oh boy, my hubby & I were both so glad that our decision to engage an additional PG (A) for our AD is correct. Because the other PG (called him B), we find that he seems amateur and quiet lei... not the typical AD PG who will usually be very outgoing and extrovert.... I also noticed he doesn't take alot of intiative going around taking shoots or giving us suggestion of what shoots to take and etc...Sometimes, I just see him standing there without taking any pics and he doesn't have much interaction with us or our friends (Xiong Di & Jie Mei). The VG was still ok. But of course, personally, I would like to give him my final verdict after seeing my AD photos taken by him.(B)

So, another tip for wedding couples engaging AD PG & VG. Get someone whom you've met before and whom you are comfortable with, be it their personality or photo taking style.

Btw, just curious, when is your wedding date? Over or upcoming??

 

[smokeyeyes]

I would keep both CD and pictures.. but not in individual prints but more of photobooks.

hahahha... We had a casual shoot done with a PG in his studio, we had a Pre-Wed shoot done with bridal salon, then I did a solo shoot again with another PG... Wedding.. how many times do we get to wear gowns????

I eve did Post-Wed shoot!
Agree this is interesting....

 

[rainedew]

I've spent a long time reading through this thread. To each his or her own. =)

I keep telling myself not to spend so much on wedding photos too as BS in sg earn a lot of money by psychoing people to buy more photos.

I keep telling myself that the big, chunky, heavy album would only live past its glory days soon after.

I keep telling myself that guests at your house would only view the photos once so no point spending so much on them.

However, it's really easier said than done. I'm quite sure that all these telling of myself would not materialise once I see beautiful pictures. I can imagine myself buying all the photos just for the special memories.

Btw, since this is a thread on spending $$ on photography, I would like to ask how much all of u spent to get all photos back from your BS?

Please share. Thanx! =)

 

[lettingo]

smokeeyes, that is very nice of you to do post Wedding shoots... Am thinking whether to do a cheap one too...

rainedew, i spend total of 3k SGD, to get back 100 photos , in 2 big albums
u must be thinking why so cheap?
because i took my photos in Malaysia JB

 

[xiaozhi]

for a wedding, the flowers will die, the food will be eaten up, but the memories last forever.. So I feel that photos are a way to immortalise the memories..

Anyway I did my wedding ala carte spending about 6-7K for pre wed and AD photography...

am thinking of doing a casual shoot with my pg as his casual shoot is very very nice and at a super resonable rate... LOL

 

[yes2be]

i am looking at this forum, try to find out how much i should budget my wedding photography, any advice?

 

[idealone]

It really depends on your own pocket de. Usually the bridal package got include the photography. Negotiate the number of photos with them.

Of cos if the package more ex, you get more photos.

When the photos are out, you will go and choose the photos. Usually additional photos are priced at around $95 per piece A4 + soft copy.

They will then try to sell you package of the photos eg: $5k for all or $1k for 15.

 

[simplyserene]

Rainedew - I spent SGD 2.5k for my pre-wedding photos... Likewise from JB BS

In retrospect tho, I would have rather spent a little more not n pre-wedding but AD photography. Personally I love seeing photos that are journalistic and capturing those little moments in life...

 

[terencetan1978]

Well,

i personally feel that the album should not be kept some where else other than under the coffee table you have in your living room.
Always remember that these pictures are those that things that bot hof the couple have gone through before they are together.
In times like quarrel and so, these pictures will bring back some memories that make one laugh and forget about the mistake that had done etc.
I even had got a digital photo frame with all pictures load up and it will be like a montage that keep on moving and change as and when to keep both of us going and forgivness etc.
Even though i had spent near to 10 k on the pictures in singapore including the whole package, but i always tell my self is once in the life time. And also a memory to be always remember than put it up in some where else not seen.