First cameras became simple and cheap and many decided to be their own amateur photographer. When digital photography lowered the cost factor, the average person could now be both photographer and photo shop for much less than prints formerly cost. Yet, here are some reasons why being the chief photographer isn’t always best at all.

The first problem with being the chief photographer is that you must always be looking for the ‘perfect shot’ instead of enjoying what is happening. To be good you must think like a photographer. Have you ever taken so much time to get a shot that you missed the event? Recently we learned that our granddaughter would be in a parade that would be streamed on the Internet. I retrieved the camera to record it but missed the moment the camera focused on her because I was fiddling with the camera. I wish I had just enjoyed the moment and waited until they sent the pictures.

Agreed, the electronics in cameras make them very versatile. However, keeping all its potential in your mind can be a different story. What do the icons on top of the knobs mean? How do you turn the auto focus or flash off and on? What does TV, P, M, or Av mean? Unless you use these features regularly, you will find it difficult to keep it all in your mind, and if you don’t the features are as good as missing from the camera.

Then too, if you are going to be the photographer, you will have to get behind people, stand up when others are seated, and basically make yourself obnoxious at times so you can get the perfect angle. Further, many people are self-conscious and don’t like their picture taken. Then you will coax them, tease them, bribe them, trick them until you can get the memory. Wouldn’t you like to let someone else do all that next time?

All right, you do become the chief photographer at an important event. Now as the hero others will be bothering you with requests for CDs of the shots, thinking you have lots of free time. Or they may be sending you an email asking you to post the pictures online or send them as attachments to your email.

The problem is more than just the amount of time required. Though digital photography need never be printed, some friends simply don’t have access to this media. For them you will need to buy photographic paper and lots of ink for your printer. Oh, you don’t have a printer? In that case, make sure you get one that has six or more different color cartridges since you will be replacing each one often.

If you want to look touristy, you will if you have a camera hanging around your neck and you take plenty of pictures. And don’t be surprised if people decide your pictures are more important to you than they are.

Think of this: if you have a minor plumbing problem, you fix it yourself. But if a major problem arises, you call a plumber to fix it. The same can be said of photography. Don’t get rid of your camera. But when it comes to those really important events, hire an expert, kick up your heels, and enjoy yourself for once.

When you want your photos done right, choosing the best photographer for your needs is worth the investment. If you follow the principles above, you will likely be glad you had it done professionally. Del Haven Studio is the location of a proven Virginia Beach Wedding Photographer who is experienced in expertly capturing professional portraits.