We've been to several new venues lately that have absolutely stunning gardens, perfect for photos, large groups, small groups or intimate shots of just the couple.
However, inside they are pretty pokey, with just the main reception room which would be unavailable for photos because they would be setting up for the meal.
One we went to recently has literally nowhere inside for groups larger than 3 or 4, and even they would be on the (small winding) stairs.
So, do you have anything in your contract about what happens if the weather does not permit the taking of the larger groups and/or different background etc? If we'd been unlucky with the weather we'd have been pretty screwed.
It seems that this summer we've been particularly unlucky with weather but always managed to work through it. This one location had me a little worried though!
Typically I am prepared to handle shooting indoors when required. There have been several times where I had to move from beautiful outdoor scenes to inside due to weather. Sometimes just have to get some chairs, set up the studio lights and shoot. Most often I will end up shooting where the ceremony takes place. That is often the nicest indoor scene.
Mr645 wrote:
Typically I am prepared to handle shooting indoors when required. There have been several times where I had to move from beautiful outdoor scenes to inside due to weather. Sometimes just have to get some chairs, set up the studio lights and shoot. Most often I will end up shooting where the ceremony takes place. That is often the nicest indoor scene.
I'm also ready for indoor shoots - chairs - lights etc. But what would you do if you get there and there is literally nowhere to do that. No chairs, no room, nothing.
We came from a Church that would not let us stay because they had another wedding in 45 mins. So, imagine you've arrived from a church, no photos outside church because of heavy rain - everyone dived in to their cars and headed for the reception.
For the one venue I'm thinking of - we arrived to a drinks reception, low ceiling (maybe 7ft) and we had use of the room for exactly the length of the drinks reception then it was in use for another function, no chance of over run - so we couldn't have gone back there later if we'd wanted.
There would have been insufficient room to take groups in there without making the majority of people stand outside in the rain while you took them.
That's what was scary. We managed to do al this outside. But if it had been continuously raining we'd have been SOL.
Lighting and chairs were kinda surplus - there would have been no room.
So, now what?
Reading our contract again, it does have a weather clause, but that was more for us no turning up. I'm thinking we have to amend this to cover bad weather while we're there too.
Your contract should not be so specific as to need a bad weather (what's next? bad lighting?) clause. Rather, it is standard to have a clause that states that while the photographer will do his utmost to photograph "required" or "requested" shots, he/she will not be held liable for "missed" shots due to unforeseen circumstances... like when they promise you 40 minutes for formal and group shots, then give you only 5.
Maybe I simply dont understand the question: wouldn't you just shoot what's there? I really dont see the difficulty.
If you can't shoot a large group due to space constraints, to me that has nothing to do with weather. The location your client chose is the issue. The clause in your contract regarding 'no specific image(s) are guaranteed' should take care of the issues you described.
All of this should be made during the consultation. We always diacuss the potential issues of limitations of the venue and possible weather issues (we advise them to make sure the venue has a backup plan in case of bad weather).
Hi Dave, I do understand and relate to the issue you describe with very small reception venues, or ones with fewer rooms. Anyway, the solution has been simple for me, when I meet them at the venue beforehand one of the main points we cover is what will happen during the day if it rains, which includes group photos. If there is simply NO space at the venue, we can both see this, and said face to face, they realise you're no miracle worker. I usually look at the schedule and suggest other times where we could potentially do them later, should the rain clear for a short time. Assuming, as you mention, there is no chance for this at the church, then after that there is not a lot else you can do. Also worth asking the venue management, as they might know of some solutions.
It was snowing (mixed with rain) and I was freaking out. There was NO WHERE to shoot indoor. Luckily it didnt snow too bad and it stopped. I feel like the client would understand because they are there with you. I dont think you need a clause regarding this.
Robin Usagani wrote:
...I feel like the client would understand because they are there with you.....
The problem is that there are many unreasonable people in the world. This is why contracts end up lengthy. Often times it's better safe than sorry because of the idiots that live amongst us.
I think the first thing I might be looking for is a porch or awning that at least provides them some cover.... or ask them if there is another location they want to stop by for group formals, like a hotel lobby or something like that, just an idea.
another idea is to do group photos later on the dance floor, get up on a ladder if you need to to get above the groups to get more people in... you can also use chairs to create rows of people if need be, when there is a will, there is a way
sherijohnson wrote:
another idea is to do group photos later on the dance floor, get up on a ladder if you need to to get above the groups to get more people in... you can also use chairs to create rows of people if need be, when there is a will, there is a way
The venues the OP is talking about, pretty sure the dance floor is covered with dining tables. They will take the tables out when it is dancing time.
Robin Usagani wrote:
The venues the OP is talking about, pretty sure the dance floor is covered with dining tables. They will take the tables out when it is dancing time.
Ha! You are so right Robin. A single table was cleared to make room for the (tiny) dance floor and as soon as it was laid the DJ started the first dance (already 30 mins late!).
Porch.... hmmm.... that would be the front door - nothing much there and certainly no 'cover'
Awning .... no such luck.
Ask the venue staff..... dream on - there was NO WHERE (and they admitted it).
...and since my OP I've just had another inquiry for the same venue in March next year. Now let me think.... March, will that be sun or rain ?
Thanks for the suggestions on no specific shot is guaranteed. Need to add that.
Dave_EP wrote:
Ha! You are so right Robin. A single table was cleared to make room for the (tiny) dance floor and as soon as it was laid the DJ started the first dance (already 30 mins late!).
Porch.... hmmm.... that would be the front door - nothing much there and certainly no 'cover'
Awning .... no such luck.
Ask the venue staff..... dream on - there was NO WHERE (and they admitted it).
...and since my OP I've just had another inquiry for the same venue in March next year. Now let me think.... March, will that be sun or rain ?
Thanks for the suggestions on no specific shot is guaranteed. Need to add that.
I think at that point you have to pretty much flat out tell them, "If you want formals you're going to need to get wet." At least you should be able to get them done quickly with that incentive!
This is what I have, keep in mind that my contract is very lengthy and designed for cinematography.
INCLEMENT WEATHER
In the event of severe weather, including but not limiting a blizzard, severe rainstorm or other unforeseeable events Lauren Carson may make the decision to limit or stop coverage due to the potential damage to equipment. If it is determined that it is unsafe to drive home after the night wedding, hotel stay will be billed to the client.
There's also a section for venue and officiant restrictions.
