KNOW YOUR PHOTOGRAPHER

Wedding photographers tend to come and go. Far too many "weekend wonders" decide to sup­plement their income by breaking into the field overnight. A price "too good to be true" is probably just that. The best way to make an intelligent decision is to compare backgrounds and services. Look at samples and get a feel for the photographer's working methods and personality. The following is a checklist that will give you CHURA’S PHOTOGRAPHY answers to a few important questions and help you know what to ask other photographers for comparison:

How long has the photographer been in business? How long has he/she been doing weddings? Does he/she have references readily available?

Phil started in photography on 1963. Photographing team, sports and nature photography. In 1969 he graduated with an associate’s degree in engineering and entered the computer field. In 1970 in addition to his engineering responsibility he became a part time staff photographer for Honeywell in Lawrence Ma. In 1972 he opened Chura’s Photography in Pelham NH specializing  in family and children photography. In 1985 Phil left the computer industry, moved the studio to its current location in Hampton Falls. Phil and his wife Patricia have 4 children and 6 grand children. Pat assists Phil on many of his weddings.

What is the background of the photographer shooting your wedding?

Phil Chura received his Masters Degree in 1982 and received his certification from the Professional Photographers of America in 1992. He is a teaching photographer conducting many classes for area photographers through PPA. His work has been exhibited extensively and he has received many awards.

What camera format will be used at the wedding?

At CHURA’S PHOTOGRAPHY only medium format 120/220 film or high-resolution digital imaging that is far superior to 35mm coverage. 35mm negatives cannot be retouched and do not enlarge with as much clarity and color.

Does the photographer have backup equipment?

We come to the wedding with 3 cameras and 2 flash units as well as backup on everything crucial to performing thorough coverage. You will not be left without pictures of your special day due to a breakdown.

Does the photographer let you keep all the pictures taken at your wedding?

Many photographers will charge for the original previews that are not included in your package. At CHURA’S PHOTOGRAPHY all packages include the photographic previews. The negatives or master digital files however, remain the property of CHURA’S PHOTOGRAPHY

Does the photographer work with an assistant?

All weddings over four hours have an assistant. Working with an assistant allows the photographer to concentrate on his creativity and artistic approach.

Does the photographer have a pleasant manner? Does he/she listen to your wishes or expect you to do things his/her way?

At CHURA’S PHOTOGRAPHY pride is taken in flexibility and an unimposing approach to coverage. You will get the pictures you request without feeling constantly manipulated. The bride will spend most of the wedding day with her photographer, therefore, a positive chemistry is essential. Having an over zealous photographer lead you around, posing you in every conceivable situation for an entire day, will turn a joyous occasion into drudgery.