There is a growing trend in wedding photography to have a friend or family member take the pictures for the wedding. While this surely saves money, it also puts at risk one of the most important things during the wedding, which is capturing memories so the couple can look back and relive the day.

Some benefits of going with a professional wedding photographer include:

• The professional wedding photographer has backup equipment in case something goes wrong or breaks during the day.
• Professional wedding photographers have been in many different lighting situations before and have delivered a consistent quality product.
• Professional wedding photographers will get consistent photos throughout the wedding day, not just the occasional good ones.
• A photography business has access to albums and printing options not available to the general public.
• A photography business has all the necessary licenses and permits to legally conduct business.
• A professional will have a contract that guarantees them at the wedding.
• A professional photographer will deliver good pictures at different ranges of distances…ie close-ups, 1/4, 1/2, 3/4 and full body shots, and long shots.
• The professional will have a selection of high-end professional lenses that offer premium quality wedding photography.
• A professional is experienced not only in taking the obvious photos, but also in capturing the special moments throughout the day and noticing when those moments happen.

By going with a professional wedding photography company, a couple is mitigating the risks of capturing the memories so they can relive the moments in the future. Please don’t risk your wedding day memories with a non-professional. Professionals may cost more but don’t risk the memories of the day you’ve dreamed of all your life.