We are meeting with Patken on June 8th. Can anyone give us advice on how to get the best package? Who the good photographers are? Any input would be greatly appreciated!
mrsh2b
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Re: Patken Information Needed
We just went for an estimate from there and I specifically requested either of 2 photographers that my friends had used and she informed me that you can't request a photographer ...that you have to wait for your engagement shoot and then, based on the pictures you like the best from the engagement shoot, they choose the appropriate photographer for you. Although I understand their philosophy, I didn't like that. I have a real issue with being assigned a photographer I've never met before for my wedding day. That's me though. They do take awesome pictures though. And they don't have 'packages'...you tell them what you want and they customize it for you. And just a tip also, they act like they can't do anything with paying cash and taking the tax off but if you are planning on paying cash, tell them you want other stuff for free. They play the 'let me talk to the manager' game, but it works out. Vendor shopping makes me feel like I'm really in the market for a used car! It's like one in the same! Good luck!
mrspapagorgio
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THANKS! That is great info-we are planning on paying cash for our vendors!
EGreene79
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I met with them, and they were willing to let me choose a photographer, but I've heard stories similiar to the one above. I think if you really push it, they'll give you what you want. I hear all the photographers are good because they were trained by the owner (Doug), but the most requested are Steve and Vinny. Doug is around 2K more than the other staff.
They tried to get me to book that day, so they kept throwing extras in. I just couldn't because FH wasn't with me, and I won't make decisions like that without consulting him. I think for the most part you can just ask for extras. I mentioned I wanted to get 5x7's for my whole bridal party, and they just threw it in.
I totally agree with the used cars saleman comment.
CaseyVM214
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When we booked them I had the same hesitation..but after I read the reviews and saw their work I knew I wanted to book them...also be aware...there sales people can be a little well snotty. Try to see past that and dont forget to bargain. Ask them what else they can throw in or can you trade some things you dont want in an package for other stuff you may want more.
Good luck
sarahradio5
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That's funny... they originally put a photographer's name down for us... even before our e-shoot. We ended up changing it to the owner, Doug, who shot my brother's wedding 6 years ago and now charges a premium (but who my mom thinks is worth that extra money). Doug is phenomenal, but is more money.
Just make sure you get:
a large portrait sized picture parent albums (if you want them) bridal party pics thank you's e-shoot with picture no time limit on the day unlimited effects on the pictures
