Seth Goodin makes an excellent point in his blog post, I Can't Afford It. The article states that most people CAN afford what it is that they are seeking - photography talent for example.

Since moving to the Lake Tahoe area, I have received e-mails almost every day requesting information. Some are price shoppers, some are serious inquiries, and I'm willing to bet that some are photographers. Oh, and if you're the latter, no problem; introduce yourself, e-mail away, and let's get together sometime! Back to this chat...

For those who can afford it but choose not to are saying "that's not a priority for me". So in a wedding photography scenario, that person is saying the flowers, music, food, and all the other nice but temporary things are more important than incredible images that will last forever. Hmmm...I guess we're not a good match.

When I meet with a bride the interview is always a two way street. 

This year I turned down numerous weddings because of the misaligned priorities that I saw in several inquiries. I met with one bride who said, "I've booked the venue, band, caterer, and florist...now I guess I need to book a photographer". No thank you. I politely told her that I would not be available for their wedding because photography was obviously not a priority.

Is that harsh? No! Your wedding happens once. One time. That's it. How do you want to look back and remember it? What type of images will you have to remember it by? If photography is a priority you'll not only want great images but seek them out!

Let's not forget another huge aspect of choosing a photographer...personality. That's a big part of the reason why you are marrying your fiance!

If you are going to spend 5-10 hours of your wedding with your photographer - shouldn't you mesh? There are countless stories out there of good images-bad personality and good personality-bad images.  It's your wedding...shouldn't you want both?

Just remember one old piece of advice

You get what you pay for.

Best Wishes,
Michael