I work with some amazing San Diego wedding vendors. I could not put together an event without the these amazing people. This month I would like to introduce you to a fabulous photography Melissa McClure. Not only is she a great photographer, she has a bubbly fun personality, and puts you at ease while she is photographing you. I asked Melissa the following questions so you can get to know her and get her expert advice on what to look for when hiring a photographer.
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What inspired you to become a photographer?
I discovered photography in High School but not in the regular way. I joined Yearbook and the photo editor was graduating and I thought it was so cool that he had his own darkroom. So I volunteered for the job and taught myself how to shoot and print in a very short time!
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How long have you been doing this professionally?
I shot my first official wedding in 2005! So next month will be 13 years as a wedding photographer. So crazy to think about! But I was shooting for a newspaper professional prior to that.
Photo:Melissa McClure Photography.
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How would you describe your style?
Very clean and classic. I do minor editing and try to get as much right in camera as possible. I want my images to stand the test of time so I stay away from anything too trendy, even if I like the look!
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What type of equipment do you use?
I've been a Canon fan since day one! It's what I've always used and I've never strayed. I'm only a fixed lens shooter (that means no zooms) because I like the crispness they provide!
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Do you bring a second shooter?
I do! I love having someone there as support and to grab a different angle than me! Especially if I'm busy with the couple, then they can be off grabbing details or guest photos!
Photo: Meliss McCLure Photography
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What is your turnaround time for prints and files?
For weddings, I promise final images in 8 weeks but typically deliver faster than that - depending on how busy I am that month!
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Do you offer photography services besides wedding?
I have my own boudoir studio in Oceanside! I also photograph births when I can. It brings me back to my photojournalism days. I take on family sessions and headshots occasionally too. I'm also diving in to the world of travel photography!
Photo: Melissa McClure Photography
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How do you and your assistant dress at the wedding?
Always in dark colors, I try to match the dressiness of the event! I prefer to wear comfy dresses that I can move around in!
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What advice do you have for couples looking for a wedding photographer? What questions should they be asking when looking for a photographer?
I would definitely say that you need to click with your photographer. You spend a good portion of your big day with them and it helps you be more comfortable in front of the camera if you like them! I would also pick a photographer that you trust. We are there to create art for you and the more freedom we have to create, the better images you receive! Get to know your photographer by asking them questions about what they are about and what they like to do! Most of my clients end up my friend when the wedding is long over!
See more of Melissa's work on her Instagram page https://www.instagram.com/melissamcclurephotography/
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