by Kriszia Vengua

Created on: January 28, 2010

Pictures can one of the best ways to keep the memories of your wedding day alive, but capturing those precious moments is not as cheap as it used to be.  From photographers fees, printing fees, and other miscellany, it can all add up to quite an astronomical expense! 

But alas, wedding couples, have no fear!  Before you relegate the wedding photography to the one relative who happens to own a DSLR, here are a few tips on how to get the best deals in wedding pictures.

RESEARCH

Wedding photographers are a dime a dozen, and they all want your business. So shop around, go to wedding expos, and always ask for recommendations, especially from friends.  You'll be surprised at how many of them are willing to offer a discount when you say you've been referred by a former client.  

BARGAIN, BARGAIN, BARGAIN

Competition in the wedding photography business can be fierce, so don't be afraid to negotiate.  A good way to get them to lower their rates is to tell them which vendors you are considering, and if he can give you a better package.  Some may not be willing to lower their professional fees, but nearly all are ready to offer alternative options: additional images, free printing, free editing, or half off on your engagement photos.

Likewise, don't hesitate to offer suggestions: Can he offer a cheaper alternative to the albums he already has? Does he have an installment plan?  Is it alright to print just half of the agreed number of images, and come back for the rest later?  

Bargaining not only gets you a lot of extras, but it also allows you to see which photographers are a match for you.  Remember that this person will be documenting one of the best days of your life.  So what use is a bargain when it turns out that he is difficult to work with?

BE CREATIVE: EMPLOY FAMILY AND FRIENDS

You know that nearly all the guests will be bringing their own cameras, so why not have them share their pictures?  While this may not replace professional photos, it could help pad a thin album if you opt for a basic package.

Motivate your guests by telling them that their photos might make it to your wedding album.  Encourage them to be creative, and tell the wedding through their eyes. You can then open up a flickr account to share and host the pictures.  Having pictures printed in bulk also allows you to avail of discounts, which you can then extend to your guests.  

 ADD IT TO THE REGISTRY

Be honest:

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