VIDEOGRAPHER | PHOTOGRAPHER - HOBBYIST VS CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL

oh no! i hired a hobbyist! NOT A PROFESSIONAL

Well if you are reading this you are probably considering on hiring a photographer or videographer who is cheaper than all the other videography and photography companies. Photographers and Videographers are a dime a dozen meaning that there is a BUTT LOAD of them in bigger cities. So the question is how do you determine the difference between an amateur aka Hobbyist vs a Certified Professional. Note that to be a vidoegrapher or photographer there are no required exams, tests, or certification programs to ensure that the wedding industry is overflowing with highly qualified artistic professionals. So what do you when the industry does nothing to weed out the amateurs from the pros. Well in all honesty your left to figure it all out for yourself by trial and error. Our team at Wedding Garage Studios has put together 3 different types of photographers and/or videographers you might come across while searching for a wedding videographer and/or photographer

Casual photographer | videographer

The casual photographer and/or videographer is that friend, uncle, mom or someone who you might know who dabbles in photography/videography, but doesn't take it seriously. Casual photographers and/or videographers enjoy taking pictures and/or video of friends and family while capturing those amazing candid moments. This type of photographer and/or videographer has a tad bit more understanding of cameras and composition of video and/or photos then the average family member or friend. Casual photographers and/or videographers might occasionally film and/or photograph a friends or family members wedding for some extra money. Most of the time these types of photographers and/or videographers don't own or have access to multiple camera bodies and lenses. Although cheaper and affordable they are considered high risk for wedding films and photos.

Enthusiast photographer | Videographer

The enthusiast photographer and/or videographer is someone who does more than just dabble in photography and/or videography. The enthusiast is a person who knows cameras, understands lenses and composition. They are fixed on images and/or videos that speaks to their love and passion for photography and/or videography. They are good at the art and craft of photography and/or videography but lack the discipline of staying focused on one project at a time. Enthusiast photographers and/or videographers own multiple camera bodies and have an array of lenses for weddings. However their pricing can substantially fluctuate depending on what they feel their worth is as an independent. Enthusiast are hard to reach and work with because they are fueled by the desire and need to do work that brings value to their passion. These types of photographers and/or videographers are more likely to be no shows on your wedding day.

Professional photographer | Videographer

The professional photographer and/or videographer is someone who has made a career in the film and photo industry. A professional will have a resume and/or portfolio of work he/she has done as a professional photographer and/or videographer. Professionals have discipline and understand the art of photography and/or videography by knowing what is needed for a photo and/or film shoot. Professionals value pre-production which is known in the industry as photo and/or shooting schedule preparation. Professionals work towards gathering the right information about a film and/or photo project. Even though professionals are passionate about their work. Photographers and/or videographers who do this professionally understand that their passion can't interfere with the progress of their work. Professional photographers and/or videographers are less likely to end in a bad result.

In conclusion be smart and well informed when hiring a photographer and/or videographer. Even though they might have a great portfolio and their artistic eye might capture your attention. Just also know that you must respond to the work ethic first and then art. Don't take the risk with your money. Research your choices in wedding photography and videography and ask questions about how they handle a typical wedding day. This will go a long way in helping you to filter the Hobbyist from the Pros.

​Happy Shopping,
Wedding Garage Studios