October 01, 2008

Monika Broz       

www.monikabroz.com

Blog: www.projectmadlove.com

I had the pleasure of working with Monika Broz a few weeks ago and I was jumping up and down when I saw the sneak preview last week.  Monkia caputred the personality and beauty of my diva bride, Malena. I  was eager to get her answer to my questions below.
 

What questions should I ask the photographer during our consultation?

Ask any questions that will help you build confidence about working with particular photographer. Ask about his/her experience in shooting weddings. Learn how they work on the day, so you won?t be surprised, or caught off guard.

Understand price list, and what is included in each level of coverage. Ask to see the examples of albums, slideshows, and anything else on the list. Inquire about booking policy and the payment schedule. Ask about any timelines for deliverables. Do they have raving fans willing to share testimonials?

What are some key things to look for when choosing a photographer?

• Style of photography: Do you love edgy & unusual? Are you into a high fashion twist? Or maybe you prefer very pure photojournalistic approach without any set up portraits.
• Passion about photography/ art that manifests itself in their online portfolio and other materials, the way they speak about photographing weddings during consultation.
• Good, pleasant personality and excellent communication skills -remember- this person will not only be present around you on your wedding day, but you'll also deal with them in the planning stage, as well as after the wedding, when receiving your products, placing additional orders, etc.
• Sense of humor- very helpful, always :), and good stress management ability.
• Excellent communication skills- very important prior to, during and after the wedding.

• First obvious warning sign would be an indifferent attitude towards the client. Does the prospective photographer seem genuinely interested in you as a couple and excited about your event? Or do they just give you a generic sales spiel, paying most attention to upselling a package? Do they try to close the deal by pressuring you to book on the spot, perhaps offering incentives and discounts? Any respected artist whose work is in high demand won?t try to sway the couple with special deal, valid 'today only' :) .
• When looking at portfolio, be on the outlook for wedding photography cliches! Selective color - b&w photo with colored flowers for example might have been 'new & fresh' few years back but got dated very quickly. Same for gazebos, rings placed amongst petals of a flower, groom dipping the bride in front of the brightly lit venue .... We've seen it well too many times already!
• Analyze their artwork. Look at composition of their images. Is the composition well balanced, or is it haphazard and sloppy?
• Pay attention to color, and skin tones specifically. Are the skin tones flattering and natural? Or are they ashy, bluish or purple- ish?
• Are the images creative and unique? Does the photographer strive to employ interesting perspective capturing many 'traditional' moments of the day?
• Are the images creative, and technically good? Pay attention to highlights. Many brides spend $$ on elaborate dresses, with exquisite detailing. Can you see the detail in the dress, or is it all blown out- white.
• How current is the portfolio? If the hair styles and the dress looks like it might have been hot in the 1980's, run away! Look at their blog- is the photographer busy, posting many events?
• The prospective photographer should be ready to show you full coverage from a wedding, not just a selection of highlights. This way, you can evaluate where their strengths and weaknesses are and weight it towards your expectations. Someone might be amazing at executing bridal portraits, but their reception shots lack interest and technical skill.

What advice do you give for the bride who feels that she doesn't photograph well?

I don't believe there's such thing as 'not being photogenic' :) When I hear that from my prospective client, I know that they simply never had an opportunity to be captured in a flattering way. My advice: Choose a great photographer. Make sure you look your best. It is a 'no brainer', but select the dress that flatters your silhouette, where nothing is hanging, sticking out or spilling. Make sure that you can freely move in your dress- very important! Have your hair and make up done professionally. And- most of all, stop sweating the small details on the day of- have fun and truly enjoy your day! Your beauty, joy and radiance will be rewarded in your photographic coverage!

Do you have any posing secrets?

I don't, I simply trust my visual sense, and treat/ work with each client in the individual way.

Digital vs. film??? Should a bride be concerned about this?

In the recent few years digital surpassed film in many regards. Anything that is possible on film, is absolutely possible with digital (even including the nostalgic ?film? look). Digital has many important advantages over film, especially in wedding photography .. Firstly, is more versatile while shooting in rapidly changing lighting conditions during the day (for example leaving the dark church and walking out on a brightly lit street) without having to change the roll of film from low light type of film, to sunny. Digital photographers can shoot virtually endless number of frames, thus multiplying the chances of getting amazing shots, versus film shooters who are limited by a specific number of frames. Digital photographers get the instant feedback, being able to see what they shot- correcting if needed. Also- digital encourages experimentation, that often results in fabulous, one of a kind shots. Shooting film, one would not be so eager to 'waste' frames on something that might or might not come out right.

Do you feel that getting ready photos are important?

Absolutely- these are a part of the story of the day! It's about the anticipation, and about Girls and Boys chillin before the show time! It gives a photographer a chance to capture fun beautification ceremonies of the Ladies, and the Male bonding!

Do you like to have a shot list for any posed shots?

It's a good idea to have a list of family formals, to assure that no one gets missed, and the family session runs smoothly. Any experienced photographer will not need the 'must have' list often suggested by bridal magazines.

What is the biggest mistake that brides make with timing on their wedding day?

Many couples I meet with declare a desire to have amazing photos, but their time line on the wedding day is so tight that the only time for a photo session is a small window between the ceremony, and cocktail hour. They also do want to enjoy their cocktail hour, and not miss any of it .... Oh, and family formals are to happen in that window of time, too! :) Simply unrealistic.

My advice- while planning a wedding day, give yourself plenty of extra time for photos! This way you won't be rushed and stressed out, you will get amazing photos & and get to enjoy every bit of your day!

In your experience does professional makeup really make a difference?

Yes, yes and yes- no question about it! I urge every one of my brides to seek a great make up artist. No matter how gorgeous, and how flawless your skin is- the right make up will make you look absolutely radiant & stunning in the photos!