Fotographic Memories

I have been an usher twice, a bridesmaid twice and I’m about to take my second turn as a maid of honor. I’ve been to more weddings than I can count on both hands. I’ve also worked as a photographer’s assistant at a number of events, so I have a pretty good idea what needs to be done from behind the lens. You could call my opinion here a studied one.
Having so many experiences with wedding professionals, I was appalled when I saw this «professional» photographer’s pictures of my friends’ special day.
Overall there were too few pictures to choose from, and in many cases only ONE or NONE of VIMs (Very Important Moments — groom’s face on bride’s entrance, bride walking down the aisle with her father, the vows, the KISS, entire bridal party together, «grand entrance» at reception, first dance, etc.)
No effort was made at consistency with bridal party photos — some groomsmen were wearing sunglasses, others not; odd spacing of bridesmaids on stairs; one ring bearer wearing a jacket, the other not; flower girls flowers missing from all but one shot; etc.
All shots inside were either dark, or completely washed out by the flash — he had no filter over his flash to create a fill without whiteout. He was advised of the lighting in the church and reception hall beforehand, but made no effort to compensate for it or request additional lighting.
There were no candid pictures of the guests at the wedding, which were requested and paid for.
And, the proof book was covered with stickers that read things like «Redo» and «Ooops!» Totally unprofessional. My friend received photos from guests that turned out better than this «professional photographer» took.
When my friend asked for an appointment to meet with him to discuss her pictures, he gave her a bunch of excuses for why they weren’t up to par, including that he didn’t use a digital camera. I know some professionals prefer film to digital for various reasons, but all of the ones that I’ve worked with have disclosed up front their preference and their reason for it. He never once mentioned to the bride pre-​booking that he would not be using a digital camera.
All of the items above were preventable with a little bit of planning and organization on the photographer’s part.
I cannot urge you enough to keep this «professional» away from your special day, unless you enjoy looking washed out or completely obscured in shadow. You cannot imagine the disappointment the bride felt when she opened up her proof book and realized there were no photos she wanted as keepsakes.