CLIENT EDUCATION 101: 5 Things That Every Client Needs To Know About the Wedding Photographer. By Ian Javier

“We are all students in life and everyday is another opportunity for us to learn”
-Ian Javier

1. When you hire a photographer, you're not just hiring someone with a big camera, you are hiring a professional. It is your duty to respect and treat your photographer and their crew properly.
This includes making sure they are well fed during your photoshoot, that they get something to drink and that at they are kept dry with their equipment when it rains.

2. Photography is an art, that makes your photographer an artist, open minded, flexible, not afraid to try new things. So before anything else, make sure you communicate what you want from your photographer, what results you want and how you want the photos to come out. Give the photographer your ideas, your inputs, the style of layout you want for your album, the photos you want included in your album, the type of paper you want the photos to be printed on.

If you are unsure of what you want, ask the photographer what's best. The answer you will get will show how your photographer thinks and will reflect how much experience he has in this field.

When you fail to communicate what you want from your photographer, you waive your right to any artistic inputs or preferences, so when you are scheduled for a photoshoot, get ready to get wet.

3. You do not own your photos. I'm sorry to say that, but your photographer has the exclusive intellectual property of your photos, unless specified by a release form indicating that the photographer grants the client intellectual rights.

Scenario:
But I've paid for those photos? Don't I own them?
You have simply paid for the printing of those photos. The truth is, you paid the photographer to take your photos. You paid an artist to capture your precious moments, the photos you have is the result of a photographer's ability to create an idea, a visual concept, a candid moment that you never thought existed. Every shot and image has been conceptualized by the artist behind the camera, it shows his signature and style.

That gives him the right to own the photos.

Scenario:
No problem, the photographer has given me a photo cd of ALL the photos...?
That makes you a blessed person, because you have just met a generous artist. I believe generosity begets generosity. What you sow is what you reap, so give credit when credit is due and be thankful that you met a professional who loves what he does.

As a general rule, keep in mind that your photographer, does not have to give you a copy of all the photos, unless you have made prior arrangements. The number of photos you get depends on what package you have chosen. Any extras you want is an extra charge.

4. Read through the contract
Contracts are very important. It's funny how some people think it is offensive to be presented a contract. I have experienced one Filipino-US citizen couple, who gave me that impression. Instead of being in agreement with the photographer, this couple had an argument instead. Imagine if I did not show up on their marriage vows renewal?

Photography is a serious business to the pro photographer. We use contracts because they protect both the photographer and the client. The contract stipulates all the services provided by the photographer.

It also shows that the client agrees to all of the terms and conditions in the contract and that any violation or breach of contract on the client's side, gives the photographer the right to refuse, discontinue and to stop providing any further services to the client.

This means that the client needs to pay on time, show up on time and allow the photographer ample time to take photos, process the photos and print the photos.

Scenario:
But I was promised it would take only 2 months?
To understand an artist, we all need to think like one... beginning with the phrase “Art cannot be rushed” But If the photographer has failed to comply with the contract that you have mutually agreed upon, then it is your right to get a lawyer, that is why you are given a copy of the contract.

Scenario:
I have had no problems, our contract stipulates 2 months, but the photographer has finished everything in 3 weeks...
This means your photographer has given much of his time, devoted sleepless nights, sacrificed time dedicated for the spouse/kids and missed countless family dinners to make sure you are given the best quality outputs. In a case like this, giving a bonus or a tip is not a bad idea.

5. The Photographer's Price
You are not paying the photographer for his time and services. You are paying for your memories.

How much are your memories going to be worth? How much are they going to be worth when you come into an argument with your spouse and a simple photo is all it takes to get you back together? When your kids begin to get curious of how your love story began, what will you show them?

These memories grow to become family treasures that last more than a lifetime. It gives your grandkids and their kids a glimpse of that memory and allows them to share the joy and happiness that you have experienced.

Scenario:
I don't care, I want a discount?
Quality has a pricetag. If you are not willing to pay for quality, then never argue with the results.




We capture your most precious moments so you can enjoy them forever. Your wedding vows, a child’s first steps, the blowing of a cake, that first kiss, family portraits, your first pregnancy or even second… Ian Javier Photography makes sure that every detail is covered on your most special day.

We work closely with our clients to make sure that every emotion at play is captured and kept fresh to be treasured for years to come.

For your photo needs contact us at 09053594807 / 09227750781 or email ianjavier.photo@gmail.com