Choosing a great photographer...

Planning a wedding is a serious undertaking. The ammount of time it takes to plan the average wedding, is daunting. One of the cornerstones of remembering your special day (aside from Forever Films shooting your wedding) is finding the right photographer. When I say the RIGHT photographer, I mean a photographer who's work you love. This being said, everyone is different. Some people like a photo-journalistic style while others may like a more traditional classic style, and some...don't know the difference and just want a the best "deal". When it comes to remembering your big wedding day, I suggest you analyze your budget and put the money where you feel it is most important. I always say that "you can get a good meal any night of the week". What I mean by this is that although food is a very important aspect of the day (for the guest), does that justify blowing 80-90% of your budget on a meal that  is gone forever in 45 minutes? I have always been a real advocate of putting the money where it lasts the longest. In the case of a wedding that would be your Videography and your photography. These are things that last Forever, unlike a meal or flowers... So, what is important to you?
Over the years shooting weddings we have worked along side many photographers. Just like anything, there are some that are great to work with, and some that are not so fun. This being said, I suggest you choose a photographer that you like...as a person. I suggest you choose someone willing to be flexible with the way YOU want things done. There are SO many photographers out there that do things the same way every time without consideration to your wishes. Pick a photographer is flexible and puts YOU first. I have been on shoots and wondered if the photographer thinks he/she IS the bride....bad deal. Choosing the right photographer determines the pictures that will be on your walls for a LONG TIME. There are SO many wonderful photographers out there. Do not settle if you do not like the one you are talking to. For a few GREAT references below, and on our website.
Mike and I had the most wonderful coffee appointment with one of the best photographers we know. Before I go any further, I will tell you, I have not ever featured a photographer in my blog before. I say this because we have worked with her. Maribeth at Red Ribbon Studios in Minneapolis, MN is the real deal. When I asked her "What is your ideal bride" she made it clear that she only wants to work with people who really want to work with her....What a rock-star. Her work is very photo-journalistic. She catches the action as it happens. It comes from a background of shooting anything from news stories to high-end weddings. She has been featured in Martha Stewart weddings, and also has appeared in many other major publications. The best part is...she is a total sweetheart. If you want to meet someone who is passionate about every minute of work she does, Maribeth is it. I have witnessed firsthand the fun, passion and professionalism (not to mention the amazing photos) she exhibits. If you are looking for the best, look no more. You can find Maribeth and Red Ribbon Studios at http://redribbonstudio.com/ Here you can view her work, and get in touch with her for bookings.

Below is the Highlight video from the wedding we shot with Maribeth. Enjoy!