Wedding reception photographers in Northern NJ or lower NY..?

Question

My wedding is Sept. 9th in Plainfield, NJ... which is just under an hour away from Manhattan in Northern Jersey.

annnnd the photographer I had lined up CAN'T do it anymore. I haven't done a lot of research.. I'm looking for someone to take pictures for around 2 or 3 hours.. probably closer to 2.

I'm not sure how much this type of thing should cost.. or if anyone has any recommendations from photographers they are going to use, used, saw their work.. I definetly want someone with a good deal of wedding experience.. but the date is drawing nearer and I just found this out... so if anyone can help and give any info they know (averaging pricing for the area, any recommendations or tips.. etc) that would be VERY helpful!

Answer 1

Two suggestions:

1. Visit the web site of the Association of Bridal Consultants

http://www.bridalassn.com

and fill out their inquiry form, making note of your location and interest. They have a lot of photographer members, and your inquiry will go to a local consultant.

2. Go to Craigslist.

http://www.craigslist.org

Under event services there are going to be a lot of photographers advertising. Check them out, look at their portfolios and call the ones you like. Good photographers can run a whole lot more than $2K... especially if your wedding is on a Saturday or Sunday, as that's when they count on making their money. If you're having the event at an off-time, you can often get a better deal from photographers and all vendors.

Good luck!

Answer 2

I don't know much about photographers in your area, but I found this on the BBB site http://www.bbb.org/alerts/article.asp?ID=683


Tips on Choosing a Wedding Photographer

Among the saddest complaints Better Business Bureaus receive concern wedding photographers who do not deliver what was promised. The vast majority of professional photographers will indeed provide unforgettable images of your special day. But you need to do some research beforehand.

The BBB offers the following suggestions to prospective brides and grooms:
* Ask for photographer recommendations from family, friends and co-workers.
* Check with the BBB for reports on the photographers you are considering.
* Schedule interviews with two or three to get a feel for the types of services they offer, the quality of their work and related fees.
* Ask the photographer if he/she is the one who will be photographing your wedding. If so, that should be stated in the contract. If not, request to meet personally with the photographer who will be shooting your wedding and review photos from several events before making a decision.
* The price should not be the only determining factor, but you should know what fees you will be charged for what services.
* Does the photographer work with an assistant? If so, is that included in the fee?
* Ask for references and talk to previous clients. A photographer who is reluctant to provide references is of questionable quality.
* Is the photo package fixed or customized? How many photos are included and what about reprints, enlargements and albums?
* What is the time frame for delivery of proofs and other products? Is there a Web site to view your images? Can you keep the proofs or negatives?
* What type and how many cameras will be used? Is color and black-white photography included?
* What is the payment schedule? Is a deposit required; if so, how much and by when?
* What types of photographs can you expect – formal, informal or spur-of-the-moment?
* Does the photographer know the policy of your church, synagogue or other institution; some have very specific rules regarding photography.
* Obtain a written contract that details every service to be provided and the name of the photographer who will shoot your event; the location, date and time length of all events; the type of package; a list of guaranteed prices for enlargements and any additional charges, like taxes or travel fees. The contract should also specify what happens if your photographer doesn’t show up, as well as the cancellation/refund policy.


Hope you find this helpful. Good luck!

Answer 3

Northern NJ can be expensive. Have you tried some local restaurants ie Pizza/Pasta places, Chinese etc. A lot will do "catering" for events and it's very reasonably priced. That way you can pick a hall and still afford food. Try calling a few places, tell them how many people and how much you want to spend (either per person or in total) Most are indipendantly owned so they'll be happy to Cater to YOUR needs and will appreciate the business. Congratulations and best of luck.

Answer 4

Prices for photographers varies on what kind of package you are looking for. The more hours you want the more you will spend. The more pictures you want the more you will spend.
Check out http://www.theknot.com and see what photographers they show for your area.
You can spend anywhere from $500 (for little to no coverage) to $2000 (for a lot of coverage). It all depends on where you draw the line.
Good luck!

Answer 5

I've done wedding photos though I am not a professional.
They came out lovely! I have a terrific camera.
I'd be happy to send you a disc or email you pics. feel free to email me.