Yup- Here is this whole old thread- once again in rises for the mothballs and comes back to life. This is because it is still an issue for some photographers.
I have written an entire dissertation on my views on the matter so there is little use in repeating them.
Just to clarify my position on the matter as to WHY have my by amateur shooting policy. I am not worried about competing with amateurs or guests for sales. All of my minimums are pre sold and my bank account will not suffer if everyone at any wedding shows up with two cameras each. I just don't want to have the compete for attention from the bridal party and not be able to get my work done in a smooth, painless and professional manner. I don't want to argue with anyone or have to defend my position in the middle of a joyous and oftentimes spiritual event. If people sneak in the odd picture- so what? I am not gonna chase them. If thing get so far out of control tha I have to ward off the "paprazzi" I want to have the right to do that in the interest of my clients.
During the evening after the church and formal sessions are over, I don't usually care what goes on at the reception unless it really gets crazy.
I hate it when photographers sabotage their own work by not working all of this out in advance and then complain bitter that someone crimped the style at a wedding. Thinking that there is never enough time to make good formals at a wedding is outrageous. Why is there time for everything else? I allways convince every couple that the have to put aside a reasonable and proportionate time for their photographs. The operative word there is "their"- yes it is "their" photographs that I am making for them and I want them to get every ounce of value that I can give them- believe me- it works.
Common sense must prevail! Kindness, courtesy and logic when applied properly will work each and every time. You can't walk in to a wedding like Grant took Richmond or be a pussycat while people destroy your working environment. There has to be a balance.
Ed
