Wedding photography isn't just about pretty pictures. It is the one thing that you'll hold onto long after your wedding day is over. A Wedding Photographer is the person that will be with you the longest and will share the most intimate of moments with you, so it is absolutely essential that you choose the right one for you.

In our, Ask, the Expert Series, Dawn Temple of Dawn Temple Photography will share her expertise to help you navigate finding the right wedding photographer for you. Dawn is a Rhode Island based Wedding and Event Photographer. She is also a lifelong artist with a Bachelors f Science in Painting, and also spends her time as a freelance educator, sharing her love of photography with students from the world renowned Rhode Island School of Design.

During this interview, we'll discuss the following which include:

-When should you book a photographer?

-What should you expect to spend on a photographer?

-Why should you book a wedding photographer?

-Why should you book a professional photographer?

-What questions should you ask a potential photographer?

-Does it matter if you haven’t photographed my venue?

-What sets you apart from other photographers?

-Why should you print your wedding photos?

-Is an album important?

-Do you need a second shooter?

-Should you do a First Look?

-What if I can’t afford a wedding photographer for the full wedding?

-What type of collections or other options do you offer or suggest ?

-Can a collection be customized?

-Should I use Pinterest to plan my photos?

Meet Dawn Temple

Tell us more about yourself.

I’ve always been an artist. I started doodling and drawing horses as a little girl, and all throughout school, my free time was filled up with creating art. When I was 8, I received my first camera from my aunt and uncle. He was a photo journalist and sports photographer. That little camera came with me wherever I went, as I photographed the world around me.

I went on to art school, for painting, but I was always taking photos as a basis for my next paintings. It wasn’t until I met my now husband that I started to think about my photography as a career option. I started out assisting then second shooting at weddings, eventually starting my own business in 2010. Since then, I’ve photographed a few hundred weddings and events, as well as other areas of photography. I now share my love of photography with students at Rocky Hill Country Day School, the Rhode Island School of Design, and the South County Art Association.

What sets you apart?

My business just turned 10, and I have enjoyed seeing the growth in my work since my very first wedding. I feel like my fine art background is one of the things that helps to set me apart at times, as I always aim to provide my clients with more than just memories. I want to give them art. I want them to want to hang an image from their wedding up on their wall, because its more than just a moment from one of their most special days. I want them to be able to love the image as art, as well. My wedding clients often become my family clients, and that’s one of the proudest achievements I hold on to. To see my clients grow as a family, or with pets, or throw a party, it makes me happy to see their lives progress, and be there to capture it for them.

What are some common misconceptions about your craft?

A common misconception about wedding photography is that we just show up with our fancy cameras, and they do all the work. That could not be further from the truth. Sure, a nice camera helps, but I am the one telling it what to do. That camera is just a box that captures light. I am the artist that points it at the subject, adjusts the lighting and settings for effect and proper exposure, frames the subjects, and then presses the button to capture, making those decisions in a split second. I need to be prepared for any lighting or environmental scenario. With experienced photographers, you are getting someone who is capable of doing this quickly and properly. I have been thrown into many challenging lighting situations, and always have a plan on how to get the best images in that moment. And always with a couple backup plans, just in case.

What are some trends in the industry today?

The photography world is always changing. And as the industry changes, you either adapt or die. I don’t really know where photography will be in 5 years, but I do know that wherever to leads, I will be there. One of the biggest challenges in the industry, though, is over saturation. This is where experience and trust are key factors. Everyone has a budget, and you will find a photographer for every budget, but you must be prepared to show potential clients why your experience and professionalism, in addition to your talent, are important to consider when booking a photographer. I’ve heard way too many horror stories.

Where can readers find you?

As for hiring me, I note on my website that many times photographers start booking out 2 years in advance, as we are usually one of the first things booked. So, as soon as you book your venue, you should reach out.

www.dawntemplephotography.com

Instagram: @dawntemple

Email: Dawn@dawntemplephotography.com

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