Secrets Behind Photography- Spencer Photography

This isn't the first submission by a photographer and it won't be the last.  The idea has been to show a range of photographers and their opinions.  This will give everyone the chance to see that all photographers from all areas and skill level are really interested in giving you the best work they have to offer.  There are enough skilled photographers in this industry that you don't have to settle nor do you have to turn to a "friend" to do the work.

Spencer Photography has won the following awards/honors--Approved as a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) by the Professional Photographers of America (PPA)-Approved as a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) by the Professional Photographers of Ohio (PPO)
-2009 Professional Photographers of Ohio Fall Conference - 1st and 2nd place in the "Wedding" category. 1st Place in the "Creative Open" category
-2009 - Winner of the Akron/Canton Fox 8 Hotlist for "Best Photographer"
-Chosen by The Knot Magazine "Best Of Weddings 2008-2009"
-2009 - Wedding image chosen for the cover of the Akron/Canton "Today's Bride Magazine"
-2008 - "Sunrise on Bryce Canyon" chosen by the Professional Photographers of America for their prestigious International Loan Collection
-2007 - Chosen by Akron Life & Leisure Magazine "Best Wedding Photographer"
-2005 - Awarded the prestigious Fuji Masterpiece Award by the Fuji Corporation

If the list of awards isn't enough to give you an idea of the quality of his work, his answers to the interview questions will.  Spencer Photography offers high quality products & service.  See for yourself Larry's feelings on all things wedding photography.

And now Secrets Behind Wedding Photography by Spencer Photography
Q: What is the biggest misconception about your industry?
A: With the advent of digital photography anyone who owns a camera believes they are a “photographer”. It is a misconception to believe that the camera makes the photographer. The camera is a tool just as a wrench or screwdriver is to the mechanic. It takes years of practice and study for someone to attain a level that makes them a true professional. Organizations such as the Professional Photographers of America enable the true professional to advance their knowledge and skills thru seminars, conventions and educational opportunities. They offer a certification program that once completed, helps the professional separate themselves by reinforcing their technical expertise thru testing and review by their peers.
Q: What are a few mistakes brides sometimes make when choosing their photographer?
A: When it comes to wedding photography the old adage absolutely holds true: you get what you pay for. It would be a mistake to eliminate the possibility of hiring a particular photographer based solely on price. What would one think if they saw a brand new Mercedes Benz priced at $5,000? I know that I would think “What is wrong with that car?” In the same vain, what would one think if they saw a 10 year old clunker for $100,000. We all would probably have the same reaction: “Are you kidding me?!!” The same thing needs to be considered when looking for a wedding photographer. There is a reason some photographers are more expensive than others. They give the best customer service; help your wedding day run as smoothly as it possibly can; and they provide the absolute best quality images and products.
Q: What things should a bride look for, look at, when selecting a vendor/site?
A: Originality and creativity. This is the number one thing that separates photographers. Also, how well does the photographer handle color and lighting. If you really make an effort to notice these things you will see a profound difference in many photographers and it will help you select only the best.
Q: What is the one thing a bride should splurge on when booking with you?
A: A larger album. The album will tell the story of your day, not only to you, but to your future generations. A good album should flow and not be overstuffed with images.
Q: What is the worst story you have heard about a mistake someone in your industry has made?
A: A professional, no matter what industry, should never EVER drink alcohol while working. A professional should act like one.
Q: If you had a client who had endless funds what unique ideas and products/services would you offer them?
A: I try to provide every one of my clients with the absolute best service and give them the most awesome wedding images regardless of their budget.

Q: What are a few things that bridal clients should review in contracts with their photographer?
A: Make sure to pay attention to deadlines. Be sure that the pricing that is offered at booking is locked in regardless of the wedding date. Also, make sure that you have recourse if the vendor does not fulfill their end of the contracted agreement. That should be in the contract.

Q: What is something you wish all of your clients knew, or a certain thing you wish all of your clients would do to make working with them easier?
A: Just allow enough time to get the images that you want without interrupting the flow of the day.

I have to say that most of Larry's answers are answers that I would have given myself on the interview.  If you agree, great, if not, tell me why or submit the interview with your own answers!  Would love to hear from any vendor in the wedding industry, even other wedding planners!  You can check out Larry's work at http://www.spencerphotography.net/

Happy Planning,
http://www.alleventsplanned.com/

PS- Don't forget to check out my news segment on Channel 5- WEWS, THIS Friday between 5pm-6pm.