You can also find Iridescent Photography on Thumtack.com
Long Beach Wedding Photographer

Here’s a little something for friends and families to remember Orchida birthday party by. Orchida turns 30 and she wants her night to be as memorable as possible, so I did her a favor and shot this video without any preparation. If I had known I would of used a 85mm f/1.2 lens. The party was Hiwa in Cerritos, Ca. She’d rented almost the entire restaurant just for her birthday party, which was outstanding. There was a DJ and lots of sushi! I must say it was a very successful birthday party as everyone that night had a blast. I only wish my birthday party is as good as this one. =)

The initial excitement of getting engaged has passed, the date is set, now it is time to start planning! Amongst the seemingly endless list of things to do, selecting the right photographer is crucial. Imagine picking up your photos after the big day has been and gone, to be met with a handful of blurred images, where the blushing bride looks all too similar to Great Aunt Gertrude’s wrinkled form! Every newly wed couple’s nightmare!

The market is saturated with wedding photographers looking for business. Start by asking your friends, family and neighbors for recommendations. A personal recommendation helps you to feel at ease and lets you know the inside scoop, seeing beyond the glitzy marketing material and smooth sales pitch.  Research in local phone books, look online and go to wedding fairs. Remember the best photographers are taken up to a year in advance and so start planning early. If you are already close to your big day, ask reputed photographers to tell you if they have any cancellations and then snap up the opportunity!

Shortlist your potential photographers by finding out whether they are available for your set date, and if they fit into your budget.  To give you an idea of quality ask what camera they use, you may not be a photographer extraordinaire but a quick Google search will give you an idea of the level of images to expect.

To get the most out of your wedding photographer, think about what you want the photos to reflect – the bride’s wedding journey, the spectacular location and size of the event or the nature of the people who attended? Do you want artistic, in the moment shots, or staged group photos?  Different wedding photographers have different styles and areas of specialty, ask to see a portfolio of their work and imagine if they were snaps of your wedding – would you be satisfied? Remember the photos are your treasured memories for years to come. Think carefully before selecting a photographer boasting the latest fashionable styles or gimmicks – 1980’s shell suits are now comical! Give your photographer clear instructions, and write them down, and so everyone is on the same page.

Overall, take your time and relish the experience. Preparing for a wedding is like the world’s most luxurious shopping trip. It can be as enjoyable as the day itself if you embrace the journey!