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Wedding Albums: The Good the Bad and the Traditional

Most brides have specific criteria they follow when looking for a wedding photographer. Normally it includes these three ideas:

1. I want my photographer to take amazing images that make me look beautiful.
2. I don't want to max out another credit card just to afford the photographer.
3. When the wedding is over, I want to have a great album to display.

The first two criteria aren't too difficult, but since most people have never had a reason to compare different wedding albums until they decide to get married, it can be a confusing decision. Below I have a list of some of the most popular types of wedding albums available in today's market. I also have included three definitions of some of the most popular styles that I (and many other photographers) use for wedding albums. This list is in no way definitive, it's simply a good place to start looking. Hopefully it will help you understand what is available and make you a well informed consumer. If after reading this blog you would like to see samples of the wedding albums offered by Irene Jones Photography please don't hesitate to contact me and set an appointment.

Matt Albums:

This type of album has been the standard for& well forever. Each photo is inserted into a predetermined cut out or window matt. Each page varies in number of images and the size of print they can hold. Conventionally pages have between one and four window openings. The best comparison I can think of is that the pages are similar to the paper folders that prom or senior photos came with. Most pages are inserted into the book individually and pages can be added, removed, or lost if the book is damaged.

The production quality is high, and of course the books are made with the finest materials, bonded leathers and acid free papers, but they do lack the modern feel that appeals to so many brides. While the look is luxurious, so is the price due to production costs. Each matt page is purchased individually, plus the cost for each print and then the price of the cover.

Flush Mount Albums:

Over time the Matt Albums have given way to a variety of Flush Mount Albums. These albums are made by mounting a photographic print (glued on top of the page) and then lacquered for a protective finish. Commonly these pages have the thickness of cardboard. The pages also lay completely flat so the entire image is shown when a photograph (or collage of images) spread across two pages.

There is also the option of using a Self Mounting Album, which is a less expensive option, but the overall quality is less. These albums are used by many photographers and do-it-yourself brides alike. The biggest draw back is that images cannot spread across two pages without being cut down the middle and a gap showing between each page. There is also room for error when applying the photographs. If each image is not trimmed and placed perfectly, the sloppy edges will show. Worse yet, bubbles can form where the photo didn't correctly stick to the page. This can become very obvious and distracting. As a disclaimer, Irene Jones Photography does NOT use any Self Mounting products and the Coffee Table Book offered by my company are manufactured to the highest standards by a leader in the wedding industry. There are more details about this product below, so keep reading!

Book Albums:

Often these books are described as a high quality library volume, which means they are sewn together and given a hardbound cover. Unlike Matt and Flush Mount Albums, the photographs are printed directly onto the page. This provides for a large variety of versatility in cover style, materials, and the type of paper the images are printed on. Many Book Albums also use Lay Flat Bindings like the Flush Mount Albums, but can have some minor image overlap at the spine. The best way to resolve this problem is choosing a style for your album that keeps this fact in mind (see the Fine Art Album below). Additionally, creative graphic design can minimize this problem and make it nearly unnoticeable.

Album Styles:

For most brides, this is where it gets confusing. The style of the book indicates how the images are displayed, not necessarily the kind of book the photographs are displayed in. Here are a few attractive styles that I use for my wedding albums.

The Hardbound Magazine Style Album:

By far this is my post popular product. This book, like all of my albums, details your wedding from start to finish, incorporates text and other personal elements (invitations, poetry, baby photos), and is designed specifically for each client. No two albums are alike. This Book Album uses a wealth of different design elements such as image collages, fading, combinations of black and white, sepia tone and color, and borders to create the overall look of each album. All of the images (an average of 125 or more) are personally selected by you and you have the final approval of every page before it goes to press. The name Magazine Style represents the kind of layouts you'd find in a high end fashion magazine. Each image is printed directly onto the heavy weight semi-gloss paper. My client's prefer this album because of its unique characteristics and affordable price tag. Albums start at only $400.00 for a 40 page book. Additional pages and images can always be included. Parents Albums are also available.

The Fine Art Album:

This is where the traditional Matt Albums come into the next century. Instead of dropping photographic images into pre-cut window mattes, a variety of images are printed on each page with a sloppy border (see example photograph) and white space around each image that provides a clean tailored feel. No image crosses the spine of the book, illuminating any possibility of cropping. All the pages are premium quality matte finish paper* which enhances the look and feel of each photographic image. Some images are printed one per page and others have up to nine images sharing the page in a grid format. This gives the book all of the classic elements found in the Matt Albums with all of the benefits of the digital photography revolution. And because these books are all hand sewn and bound, they are flawless in their quality. As with the Hardbound Magazine Albums, you choose your images (up to 600) and the layout of each page. Text can also be added. Discerning brides are often drawn to the Fine Art Album for its timeless sense of style. Prices for this album start at $500.00 and vary according to the number of images and their layout.

The Coffee Table Album:

This is the only Flush Mount Album offered by Irene Jones Photography and I am proud to say that it is a high quality product that should please any fashionable bride. The Coffee Table Album uses some of the same design elements as the Hardbound Magazine Album, while letting the images speak for themselves. Most of the images fill one or two pages while other pages show a collection of images that tell your story. On average 100 images are included in each book. The designs are simple, yet elegant. All of the photographs are bonded to the page and then lacquered to prevent damage. This gives each page a glossy shine while it protects. With the lay flat binding, your images will never be distorted as they cross the spine of your album. Again, you have the freedom to choose and help with the design of your album; insuring your satisfaction. Coffee Table Albums come in a variety of sizes and cover materials. Prices start at $300.00 to $1500.00 depending on the book size and the number of images.

For more information about any of the albums and their various styles displayed here please contact me directly at 425.367.4781. If you wish to set up a personal consultation, you can see samples for yourself and we will discuss what options will work best for you. More information about these albums can also be found at http://ijphoto.net/services/albums_media .


*Matte Paper (not to be confused with Matt Albums) simply describes the finish of the page. Matte paper is the opposite of glossy and it is used by most professional photographic labs as the standard finish for photographic prints.

As a wedding photographer I have put in many hours at bridal fairs and trade shows. I would like to offer a few words of friendly advice that will make visiting these events more successful for brides everywhere. 1. Decide what services/products you need.
If you don’t have a check list of “to do” items, please make one. Planning a wedding is very time sensitive and many of these list items need to be taken care ASAP. Booking a photographer is one of them. Most photographers, me included, book their weddings about 9-12 months ahead of time. If you don’t have a photographer and you’re wedding is in June you might want to put this at the top of your list. If you’re wedding in is March you should be panicking.
2. Where possible get a list of the different vendors attending and do your homework ahead of time.
Use the website from each bridal show to get a listing of all of their vendors. Bridesclub.com does a great job. It might save you a lot of time and money if you visit the site of these vendors prior to the show. As an informed consumer, you now have the upper hand and you will be more satisfied with your choices. It’s also a good idea to write down a few questions to ask. This will help you compare the different products and services. Don’t be surprised if comparison shopping is difficult, each vendor will have their own pricing, style, and way of doing business. You should ask questions that help you establish why that particular business is right for YOU.
3. Print out labels to use for entering contests and give-a-ways.
Many vendors will offer a prize as a way of attracting you to visit their booth. To avoid hand cramping, I suggest pre-printed labels. Make sure they include your name, phone, email and wedding date. Simply stick your label on the entry form, cross your fingers, and pray that you win.
4. Get there early. Bring good shoes and a game plan.
These types of events always have long lines, and if you want to get the most out of the experience, be prepared to invest some time with each vendor before you invest your money. You’re game plan should include who you want to see first, second and so on. It’s okay to re-visit a vendor you like, or skip one you are not interested in. Take notes and gather information. Ask questions you’ve prepared to help you do a side by side comparison. Try to get a feel for how they do business, and if they say something that interests you, take notes so you will remember later on. Don’t forget to grab a brochure.
5. Bring the guy!
It never hurts to have your fiancé around, but try to make planning the wedding fun for him too. If he doesn’t have his tux yet, let him spend some time looking at tuxes, and even if you have a caterer and confectioner, don’t skip these booths when they will offer your sweetie a taste! After he’s spent a long afternoon doing what you want to do, take him out for dinner as a “Thank you for coming even though I know it was the last thing you wanted to do today.”
6. Don’t feel rushed, spend time talking to the vendors.
A lot of people come to bridal show unsure what they need or where to get it, so they wander around trying to look unapproachable so no one sells them something they don’t want. Truth is, they do want what the vendors are offering, and they are just too scared to ask! They then leave the bridal show and wonder why it wasn’t very helpful. What’s the worst that could happen? You might find a vendor you didn’t know about that has exactly what you have been looking for. Remember you’re in control. We are asking for you business, not the other way around.
7. Bring your check book.
If you stuck to your plan and asked all of your questions, odds are that before you leave the bridal show, you will have a pretty good idea of what you want. So, what are you waiting for? Be prepared to pay deposits and sign contracts. Then walk to your car with a smile on your face, because you just set in motion the happiest day of your life!

1. Is a deposit required? When is it due?
There is a $500.00 non refundable deposit for booking a wedding with Irene Jones Photography. This deposit is due at time of signing the photography contract and no date will be held until deposit has been paid. Portrait sessions do not require a deposit, but the session fee must be paid at time of service. All other products and services must be paid in full prior to delivery.

2. Are their payment plans?
Yes! Payment plans are available for any type of wedding or portrait session. Each payment plan is based on a monthly fee agreed upon by you and Irene Jones. There is no fee for choosing a payment plan, but any and all late payments will be charged 10% monthly compounding interest. You will not receive any purchased items or print orders until your account has been paid in full. Payments can be made by check, cash, money order or credit card.

3. Why do I need to sign a contract to hold my wedding date?
The photography contract is designed to help you understand the business practices of Irene Jones Photography. The terms and conditions are generalized and designed to fit the needs of most wedding clients. Irene Jones Photography understands that not all terms and conditions may apply to your specific needs. Our goal is simply to make sure that you are a well informed customer and that you know your rights.

4. How are travel fees calculated?
Travel fees are based primarily on mileage. No travel fees are assessed if your event or desired portrait location is within King or Snohomish Counties. Beyond that, a charge of $0.41 per mile will accrue. If the location is farther then 100 miles from Lake Stevens, Washington (home of Irene Jones Photography) an additional fee of $250.00 per night per person will be included.

5. Do you match competitor’s prices?
This is done on a case by case basis. Please contact Irene Jones with information about the package you were offered to receive your personalized quote.

6. Is there a discount for ordering large quantities of prints?
Yes, bulk discounts are given when an image or custom card/announcement has quantities over 100. For example: a 4x6 is regularly priced at $7.00 each. If you purchase 100 4x6’s of the same image your price is only $2.00 each.

7. Can I get a discount for referring a friend?
Yes! When you refer a friend to Irene Jones Photography you will receive a free 8x10 print from your next photographic session. Your friend will receive the same.

8. How to print credits work?
Print credits are like gift cards. You can purchase any dollar amount you wish and apply it towards your own online order or the online order of a friend or family member. When you purchase a credit you will be given a personal coupon code that can only be used by you or the person you wish to give the credit to. They can then apply this credit each time they order until it is depleted. The online ordering system will keep track of your current balance for you.

9. Film or digital?
Both; it’s up to you to choose! Most of our customers prefer digital because it helps keep the turn around times low and thanks to modern technology, has wonderful quality. Irene Jones upon request will shoot medium format film using a Mamiya RB 6x7. Otherwise, your images will be shot with a Nikon D200. This camera boast 10 mega pixels; this means your images will be clear and beautiful no matter the reproduction size. Irene Jones is also a Photoshop veteran, so go head, order a 24x30, you won’t be disappointed.

10. What are the best locations to photograph outdoors?
The following list of links show the websites of some of Irene’s favorite locations for seniors, families and engagement portraits alike. Some locations require a permit and the payment of a photographic fee. Each client is responsible for providing any and all necessary permits if they choose such a location.

• Cougar Mountain Park: http://www.metrokc.gov/parks/parks/cougarmountain.html
• Kubota Gardens: http://www.kubota.org/
• Washington Park Arboretum: http://www.arboretumfoundation.org/
• Volunteer Park: http://www.seattle.gov/parks/parkspaces/volpark.htm
• Woodland Park Rose Garden: http://www.ci.seattle.wa.us/parks/parkspaces/woodlandpark/rosegarden.htm
• Parsons Garden, Kerry Park and Marshall Park: http://www.seattle.gov/parks/parkspaces/parsonsgarden.htm
• Bob Heirman Wildlife Preserve at Thomas’ Eddy: http://www1.co.snohomish.wa.us/Departments/Parks/Information/Park_Directory/Regional_Parks/Heirman_Preserve.htm
• Rhody Ridge Arboretum: http://www1.co.snohomish.wa.us/Departments/Parks/Information/Park_Directory/Regional_Parks/Rhody_Ridge.htm
• Pike Place Market: http://www.pikeplacemarket.org/frameset.asp?flash=true

11. What is the best time of day for a photo shoot?
Mornings or evenings are best, but the time changes depending on the season. During the summer months you can plan a family portrait shoot as late as 7:30pm and still have a great amount of light. It is best to avoid shooting between 10am-2pm, when the sun is directly overhead. Thankfully, Washington is know for it’s overcast skies, which make outdoor photography perfect almost any time of day. Please consult Irene Jones about what time of day would be best for your specific portrait session.

12. How does the mobile studio work?
The mobile studio is designed to eliminate the hassles of other photo studios. There is no waiting in line for your turn, less worry about frightened or uncomfortable children, and there is always time for a bathroom break. All of the necessary lighting and background equipment come to you. Irene Jones will arrive a half of an hour prior to your scheduled session time to do set up.


13. How long does it take for an album to be completed?
Wedding, baby, and family albums are created with your input. You select the photographs, approve or reject the sample pages, and add text where appropriate. As with any custom design process, it takes time. On average it takes about 1-2 months from the time you submit your chosen photographs to the arrival of your album in via USPS or FedEx. This time can vary depending on how quickly you provide information to Irene Jones Photography.

14. Can I add text or images not photographed by Irene Jones Photography to my album?
Yes, as long as it is not trademarked or copyrighted by another individual. Quotes attributed to famous authors and historical figures are normally under public domain. Popular song lyrics may need consent prior to usage. If you would like to add images photographed by anyone besides Irene Jones or her employees, a copyright release must be provided.

15. How do I view my images online?
Viewing your images is easy. After creating an account and logging on to Irene Jones Photography through the “client log-in” menu, please search for your images using your full name. Please contact Irene Jones directly if you cannot find your images. Once you have found your photographic session, you can view each image in color, black and white, or sepia tone and order a variety of different print sizes. You can also save your favorite images into the “my favorites” file and come back to them later. Once you have chosen your images and print sizes you can check out and pay online with a major credit card. If you would like to order custom cards or announcements, or enlargement sizes not listed online, please contact Irene Jones Photography to place your order.

16. How long does it take for my images to be posted online?
For the following types of sessions your images will be available 2 business days after your portrait session: Family Portraits, Senior Portraits, Engagement Portraits, Children and/or Infant Portraits.
Weddings, fashion shoots, and other event photography will be posted online 7 business days later.

17. How long does it take for my online print order to be processed?
Online orders are sent directly to Irene Jones and then forwarded to the photographic lab of her choice within 48 hours of ordering. Depending on the quantity and size of the enlargements ordered, it could take up to two weeks for your prints to arrive via USPS. If you are ordering a canvas print, processing times will vary and you will be contacted directly with information in regards to when you should expect your order.

18. Can I specify glossy or matte finish?
Yes, but if you do not specifically ask for glossy, your order will be printed on matte finish photographic paper. All photographic papers used are of the highest quality and acid free.

19. What if I don’t like my prints after I receive them?
At time of online order all customers must agree to the terms and conditions of the sale before their order is submitted. These terms state that images may vary is color, cropping, and contrast from the online viewing. Every effort is taken to assure that your images meet professional standards. If in the event that you are not completely satisfied Irene Jones will be happy to help resolve each problem on a case by case basis.

20. Can I upload my images to my website or another personal website like myspace.com?
Irene Jones Photography retains the copyright to all images photographed including the rights to Internet publication. This means you cannot post these images unless you have the express written consent of Irene Jones Photography. If you would like to share you images with friends and family, please invite them to visit Irene Jones Photography Online and view your images through our “client log-in” page.

21. What if I don’t like my photos?
Every step possible is taken to insure your satisfaction with your photographs. If the in rare occasion you are not satisfied Irene Jones is happy to re-shoot or provide a refund on a case by case basis. Please contact Irene Jones directly if you have a question about your images.

Every photographer is different. Each has a specific style that is unique to them, a variety of different products, and every one of them is priced differently. So how is anyone supposed to make an informed decision? I suggest using the following formula to help you make a decision.

1. Look at as many photographers as you can, and take notes on what you like. If you don’t know what you like, then work on eliminating what you don’t. Be prepared to look and thousands of photos, and if possible ask to see an entire wedding from start to finish. Can you imagine yourself in those photos? If not, move on.
2. Decide what products you would like. Every photographer offers a variety of different options, but the most common are photo albums, DVD slideshows, enlargements, announcements, etc. Do not let a photographer, your mother-in-law, memories of your best friend’s wedding, or budget persuade you on this step. You’ll have plenty of time to figure that out later.
3. Now that you know what you like and what you want, it’s time to get educated. You now need to figure out the logistics of working photography into your wedding day. Decide how much time you want to spend doing family portraits, and then double it. It might help to write down a list of photographs you’d like to come away with after the wedding. It will help you and your chosen photographer to give you an accurate price and avoid additional unforeseen charges.
4. This is where the money comes in. Review the prices of your favorite photographers to get an idea of what most photographers are charging. WARNING: Price and quality are not equivalent! Just because a photographer charges $7,000 does not mean he/she is the best photographer for you. It simply means he/she thinks she is the best. Additionally avoid photographers that offer their services at deeply discounted rates. Those advertising bargain basement prices might not feel their product is worth the money, or they simply don’t understand the market they are trying (and failing) to compete in. On average be prepared to spend $1,500-$4,500 for a wedding package. Albums, prints and all other accessories might be additional. Now is a good time to review your wedding budget and if necessary adjust to fit the needs you determined in step 1 and 2. Please keep in mind that old cliché that your wedding photos and video are the only thing you take away (in addition to your spouse) from the wedding day. It’s repeated so often because it’s true!
5. Now comes that hard part, you need to make appointments with the photographers that have the following: great work (step 1), the right products (step 2), they are available for the time you need on your wedding day (step 3) and they fit your budget (step 4). Don’t be afraid to see 10 or 15 photographers at this point, but beware that each appointment should at least take an hour. If you can’t meet them all face to face, a long phone call should work, but nothing will give you more insight then sitting down with him/her over a cup of coffee.
6. Since you have already established what you want in steps 1-4, your mission during your appointment with your photographer is to find out who has the best customer service and personality. Look for a photographer you get along with! If you don’t like the person generally, why invite them to your wedding? Find out how they treat their customers, and don’t be afraid to ask for client references or testimonials. Make sure they have a time schedule for when they will deliver your purchased products and hold them to it! You shouldn’t have to wait 2 years to get your wedding album. (It happens-more often then you’d believe). Read every term and condition of their contract and know your payment schedule. If they don’t have a contract and they want everything now, RUN! Don’t be afraid to ask to see their business license if you feel the need. Most of all make sure they have your best interest at heart.
7. Book your photographer right away! If you won’t put down a deposit, chances are someone else will!

You would never believe me if I told you some of the horror stories I've heard about other people's experiences with wedding photographers. Unfortunately, there are a few sleazy and disreputable "photographers" out there that give the rest of us professionals a bad name. So how do you know who is a slime ball and who means business? It's not every day (unless you're Jennifer Lopez) that you plan a wedding. The average bride and groom have no idea where to start. Here are a few helpful hints that might make finding your perfect photographer a little less stressful.

1. Does the photographer ask you to sign a contract prior to booking your wedding date?
A true professional wants to keep everything on the up side of the law, and the best way to do that, is get it in writing. Make sure you know what you are agreeing to. The contract should include a clause relating to the worst case scenario. Terrible things do happen; (not to me of course...) pictures get lost or damaged in the mail, hard drives crash and cameras malfunction. If any or all of these things happen on your wedding day, you should be refunded your money in whole or part depending on the circumstance. Everyone understands that you can't get your wedding day back, but in case of an act of God, you should at least not have to pay for something no one could control.

2. What is the photographer's schedule on your wedding day?

Many photographers will say they have availability, but they might not mention that you are the third wedding that day. This could cause your photographer to run late, miss your ceremony and still charge you for it. The photographer would also be completely exhausted and he/she could justify only going through the motions and not adding any real effort. Find a photographer that dedicates your wedding day to you. Books only one wedding a day, and arrives on time. If they are 45 minutes late to your consultation and never returns your phone calls, this might be an indicator of what is to come.

3. When will I get my prints/digital negatives/album etc?

Your photographer should be able to give you a set time line. If you're wedding date is June 3, and they say you'll get your proofs and album 2 months after to the wedding, you are entitled to have those products on time. Granted, you should probably not call your photographer screaming on Aug. 3 if everything isn't in your mail box. Please consider that the US Postal Service might be involved and it's out of the photographer's hands. If the photographer doesn't have set dates you might find yourself 2 years later, still looking at an empty mailbox. This is not an exaggeration. I have talked to people who have dealt with this very problem.

4. What professional lab will be printing my photos or what publisher will be printing my albums?

It's okay to ask this. It shouldn't be a secret. Feel free to get the information and then check out their contacts for yourself. Remember you are hiring whomever the photographer hires also.

5. Who will be shooting my wedding?

Believe it or not, but some photography studios (and to be nice I won't mention who did this to me on my wedding day) will assign a photographer to you instead of sending the photographer you booked. The studio I used for my wedding showed me samples from one photographer, whose work I really loved, and then used the bait and switch and provided a photographer that didn't understand basic composition at all. Ask (and if necessary get this is writing too) that the photographer you have selected be available to shoot your wedding. If they are not, keep looking. Don't settle for pictures done by an intern!

6. What other fees do I need to know about?

Be prepared to have shipping and handling charges, late fees, and retouching fees listed. The photographer should be up front about these additional costs and they should be reasonable. Factor these costs into your final price.

7. What can you do for me that the competition can't?

At this point if the photographer goes into a 20 minute monologue about how he/she is God's gift to a camera, find a happy place in your head and stay there for a while. What the photographer thinks about his/her photos is irrelevant. It's what you think about the photos. There will be several photographers out there whose work you'll like; judge between those few on how well you interact with him/her. If you don't like the photographer as a person, then why pay them to come to your wedding?

I hope that these questions and answers were helpful. I'd love to take a few moments and have you ask me these same questions. I am sure you'll be happy with what you hear.

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