How long did you wait for your engagment pictures?

[MainStMandy]

Tuesday will be 3 weeks since our engagment pictures. I haven't heard from Randy and he hasn't emailed me back yet. I also noticed that brides who had their wedding after our e-pics have already gotten their pics yet (more important, I understand). How long should we expect to wait? I figured the whole shoot was only 40 minutes so there can't be that many pics.

[Lindsay22]

We got preview pics 3-4 weeks after our shoot and then all of our pics 5-6 weeks later. It was almost 8 weeks before we got our wedding pics back.

[momplus3]

I spoke with Karen Chandler at Disney Photography on Thursday as we have not received our wedding pictures online and our wedding was 4 weeks ago!

She told me that they are VERY far behing due to the number of weddings in September (ours was 9/16) and we should receive ours next week.

I am starting to worry a little.

[pezaddict231]

I want to say mine took about 3-4 weeks, but Nathan told me it would a few weeks at the end of the session. We got a few sneak peek pics at about 2 weeks.

Did Randy mention when you could expect them? I think now is a really busy time in the area for weddings, I know our florist said it would be a while before he could get a proposal to me since it was so busy with weddings in FL.

I would maybe give it another week, unless you need the pics for a specific purpose, and try calling when you do, he may just be behind in his emails.

[MainStMandy]

I want to say mine took about 3-4 weeks, but Nathan told me it would a few weeks at the end of the session. We got a few sneak peek pics at about 2 weeks.

Did Randy mention when you could expect them? I think now is a really busy time in the area for weddings, I know our florist said it would be a while before he could get a proposal to me since it was so busy with weddings in FL.

I would maybe give it another week, unless you need the pics for a specific purpose, and try calling when you do, he may just be behind in his emails.

I don't need them...I am just getting very nervous about them and anxious to see them. I viewed his other e-pis and they don't look anything like what we did. I guess I will just keep waiting.:surfweb:

[torsie24]

We had our photos taken 12 days ago and just got them today.

I was over the moon as I wasn't expecting them for a couple of weeks yet as I know it is a very busy time of year, our session was about 90 minutes with over 600 photos - and of course weddings will be taking photographers editing priorities as people are paying thousands for them.

If I hadn't of had them after a month I have probably sent an e-mail and asked. So maybe wait a week more. I know that just sorting out my vacation photos takes me an age, let alone if you were having to do it for customers.

[pezaddict231]

Oh believe me, I know what you mean. I wanted to see mine the next day...but the photographers have other ideas:rolleyes:. I just meant if you were planning on sending something out and you really couldn't wait better to just call him now.

I don't think there's any reason to get nervous, and I'm sure he'll get them to you soon. He should have returned your email though to let you know it would be a little longer. If it is really bothering you, there's nothing wrong with calling him. It'll let him know you're anxious to see them and make you feel better. ;) I generally hate calling people, so I would put it off until I really had to. :laughing:

[MainStMandy]

Thanks girls. I guess I am just being impatient. I just feel like everyone else is getting their picutres but me!! Lol. Victoria your pictures were beautiful!!

[torsie24]

Thanks Mandy. I understand being impatient to see them. I was very excited to get ours too, but was expecting a few weeks wait, so certainly don't feel worried at all. It's quite an involved process I think. :)

I'd worry more if you got them after a day or two, as it'd show that there hadn't been much care put into choosing the good ones.

[Dr.Cinderella]

I have been trying to contact Randy myself for about a week to pay for our engagement shoot, and he hasn't responded to my emails. I thought maybe he might be on vacation or something?

[MainStMandy]

I have been trying to contact Randy myself to pay for our engagement shoot, and he hasn't responded to my emails. I thought maybe he might be on vacation or something?

I haven't called him yet...did you try that? I just shot him an email to see if our pics were ready.

[acwinsett]

Our engagement photos from Misty took about three weeks and it seemed like AGES! By the time we selected the photos for "advanced edits", the advanced edits were completed and we received our DVD with the photos on them, it was more like 5 or 6 weeks from the time we took them. No worries . . . I'm sure they'll be worth the wait!

[MainStMandy]

Thanks Andreah! I guess I am just being impatient. I am still nervous and anxious to get them but I guess I just have to wait!

[MainStMandy]

Just an updated...no pictures and no contact from Randy. I am sure I am overreacting but it's been 4 days since I emailed him.

[Dr.Cinderella]

I feel ya! iIts been a week since I emailed him, and Im trying to pay him! I wonder whats going on?

[MainStMandy]

That's wierd!! Be sure to post if you hear from him. I shot him one more email to see if he got my last one. Df said he will call him if we haven't heard by the end of the week.

[MainStMandy]

So mini-update. I found 2 CD's in the mail this morning. I am having trouble looking at them on my work laptop so I don't know if I can post till I get home. The first 5 I looked at....well I'm just not happy. Plus still no contact from Randy.

[Sarah <3 Disney]

Uh ohs! I hope the the remaining ones are better for you!

Weird to hear someone not liking a Randy photo... hmmm...

[DisneyBrideToni]

You know, I will probably get bashed for this but I have never liked Randy's pictures. There is just something about them. They are blurry and dark and I am not a fan. His pictures were actually really good at one time but now the pictures I have seen lately are not my favorites. :sad2:

I think if you are not happy with the photographer you should change him. It is important to have a good connection with your photographer on your wedding day. If you aren't happy with him it will show in your pictures and that isn't what you want. You will be looking back on your pictures for years to come and you don't want to be disappointed.

[MainStMandy]

You know, I will probably get bashed for this but I have never liked Randy's pictures. There is just something about them. They are blurry and dark and I am not a fan. His pictures were actually really good at one time but now the pictures I have seen lately are not my favorites. :sad2:

I think if you are not happy with the photographer you should change him. It is important to have a good connection with your photographer on your wedding day. If you aren't happy with him it will show in your pictures and that isn't what you want. You will be looking back on your pictures for years to come and you don't want to be disappointed.

Thank you Toni!! You won't get bashed from me. I am so incredibly disapointed. I have seen some amazing work from Randy...but I didn't get it. I have a few so far that I have liked but the majority are not good. I can't believe how many blurry pictures I recieved...I just don't know why a professional photographer would send those!

We aren't happy and I have contacted him to see what I can do. I don't want to bash him...he seemed very nice and I am sure he takes good pictures. Our experience with him has been very underwhelming.

[DisneyBrideToni]

I am sure it will all work out. :hug:

The one bright side is at least you found out now and not after your wedding!

[MainStMandy]

I am sure it will all work out. :hug:

The one bright side is at least you found out now and not after your wedding!

Absolutely! I just got the Black and White CD to work for like 5 minutes...it just gets worse. Hopefully tonight I can upload some from my home computer. My work laptop hates me!

[padisneyfour]

Absolutely! I just got the Black and White CD to work for like 5 minutes...it just gets worse. Hopefully tonight I can upload some from my home computer. My work laptop hates me!


I am sorry your pics weren't what you hoped/wanted but like Toni said it is better that you found out now rather than later. everything will work out:goodvibes

[Sarah <3 Disney]

You know, I will probably get bashed for this but I have never liked Randy's pictures. There is just something about them. They are blurry and dark and I am not a fan. His pictures were actually really good at one time but now the pictures I have seen lately are not my favorites. :sad2:

I think if you are not happy with the photographer you should change him. It is important to have a good connection with your photographer on your wedding day. If you aren't happy with him it will show in your pictures and that isn't what you want. You will be looking back on your pictures for years to come and you don't want to be disappointed.

Oh I totally agree. The Roots have always been my favorite, followed by Misty. It is just recently there have been so many threads about how amazing Randy is, it was interesting to see the flip side.

But I definitely agree, change the photographer if you are not happy! Mandy! Fly back down to Disney the week of Thanksgiving and get new photos done! That's when I will be there! :rotfl: We can paaaar-tay! ;)

[bjgrazi]

It's really not professional for someone to not get back to you. If he were away he should at the very least have an automated response to the emails. I'd really think twice before using him or sending him deposit money.

[pezaddict231]

I'm so sorry your were disappointed with your pics. I have seen Randy do some great work, but it's a shame that you didn't get it. It's much better to find this out now than on your wedding day. Are you able to change photographers if you wanted to? I hope he works something out with you.

[MainStMandy]

Thanks everyone. I have contacted Randy and am waiting for his response. The quality of his work is just not what I have expected or seen here.

I am also concerned about his lack of communciations...it's not professional. It's funny I emailed him Friday to ask when our pictures might be ready an that is the same day he mailed our CD's...but still not contact.

I will say this, having the e-pics done and finding all this out now is a HUGE relief...because hopefully it's something I can fix before the wedding. I would have been crushed if these had been our wedding pictures.

Here are a few of the bad one, but I haven't gotten through them all since it keeps crashing my poor laptop.

This is the first one I saw (in B&W)...you can see how blurry it is:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce00b3127ccef83ea0c3972b00000040O08BbN27Ry5aA9 vPh4/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

I got about 15-20 of these...you can barely see us even if they are one of the few not blurry.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce00b3127ccef83e0975d75100000040O08BbN27Ry5aA9 vPh4/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

We got quite a few of these...too dark to see us though.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce00b3127ccef83f32e3363e00000040O08BbN27Ry5aA9 vPh4/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

Not sure if you can tell on these images, but on the original these are all out of focus.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce00b3127ccef83fe304f71900000040O08BbN27Ry5aA9 vPh4/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce00b3127ccef83e96dd161e00000040O08BbN27Ry5aA9 vPh4/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

http://im1.shutterfly.com/media/47b9ce00b3127ccef83e546816ca00000040O08BbN27Ry5aA9 vPh4/cC/f%3D0/ps%3D50/r%3D0/rx%3D550/ry%3D400/

[Sarah <3 Disney]

Well, if it makes you feel any better... you looked great! :goodvibes But I totally see what you mean. I like the last one though, too cute! Should try and recreate it in focus. ;)

[MainStMandy]

Well, if it makes you feel any better... you looked great! :goodvibes But I totally see what you mean. I like the last one though, too cute! Should try and recreate it in focus. ;)

Thanks!

I have to go through and look...some of the images I have like 4 or 5 blurry and one in focus...not all of them though.

Oh and if you follow my pj, you know what a disaster my hair was. It's funny to see in pictures my hair get worse and worse. It looked great during the first couple of shots!

[Dr.Cinderella]

Hi Mandy, Sorry you werent happy with your E-pics. I wanted to let you know I tried emailing Randy's address on the website (info@chapmanphotography.com) and got a response right away, so maybe there is a problem with his other email address he was using before (i think it was mindspring or something). Im a bit nervous about my epics now as well, but Im still going to go with him because he has the best prices for engagement shoots. We dont want to spend a lot on them because we dont neccesary need e-pics. We got some great ones from our actual engagement thanks to my fiance's dad- but I want to make one of those cool photo guest books with the professional ones! Anyways, keep us updated with what happens and I hope you got at least some shots you love!
Marissa
PS I just saw your PM, sorry I didnt see it before! I usually dont log on.

[torsie24]

Aww, sorry you didn't like your photos Mandy.

You look lovely in them, but I can see what you mean about them. Also his lack of communication is more worry to me!

I can't reccomend the Roots enough (unless of course you don't like their style of photography as we've learnt a lot of folk dont recently :rotfl:), they are always very friendly, quick to respond and are super fun to shoot with. The main reason I wanted the engagement session was to check I would be comfortable with them there at my wedding day, as I hate having photos taken and have been to weddings where the photographers have been so surly and bossy that I just would be scared all day if that were me!

Needless to say I can't wait for them to be there!

Definitely drop them an e-mail if you are interested.

(Also the last 3 photos all look pretty good on my computer here, so all is not lost if you do need some photos for invites, guest book etc. But certainly don't contract someone for your wedding who you are not 100% comfortable with.)

[MainStMandy]

Aww, sorry you didn't like your photos Mandy.

You look lovely in them, but I can see what you mean about them. Also his lack of communication is more worry to me!

I can't reccomend the Roots enough (unless of course you don't like their style of photography as we've learnt a lot of folk dont recently :rotfl:), they are always very friendly, quick to respond and are super fun to shoot with. The main reason I wanted the engagement session was to check I would be comfortable with them there at my wedding day, as I hate having photos taken and have been to weddings where the photographers have been so surly and bossy that I just would be scared all day if that were me!

Needless to say I can't wait for them to be there!

Definitely drop them an e-mail if you are interested.

(Also the last 3 photos all look pretty good on my computer here, so all is not lost if you do need some photos for invites, guest book etc. But certainly don't contract someone for your wedding who you are not 100% comfortable with.)

Thanks! I have contacted Randy and a few others and am kinda waiting his response.

The pictures are so large that when I upload them to shutterfly and they "shrink" you can't notice the blurriness...but if it were to actually be printed, it would still be blurry (plus all the other mistakes).

I am trying to stay positive...again, glad I found out now!

[Dr.Cinderella]

HeY Mandy did you see my message about Rand on the previous page?

[MainStMandy]

HeY Mandy did you see my message about Rand on the previous page?

Oh I did now...sorry!! Thanks...I'll try him at that address.

The only wierd thing is he happened to mail them out the day I emailed asking about them...I have a feeling he's getting my emails.

[pezaddict231]

You looked great! I definitely see what you mean though, I am super picky with pictures and I would have been disappointed. You may be able to fix some of them on your own, by cropping and adjusting the shadows, etc., I know probably not what you really want to do.

I'm with Torsie, I absolutely love the Roots. I know they are more expensive than a lot of other photographers in the area but they are totally worth it to me. I loved all my engagement pics and they are truly a delight to be around. You also get the engagement session as part of their package, so you could redo your e-pics or I'm sure they'd let you do a Trash the dress or just married session instead if you couldn't make it down there for epics.

Good luck with everything!

[Boardwalk_bride]

I'm really freaked out now! I have put all my deposits down on Randy....I would be really upset if I ended up with bad pics :sad2:

[dhay]

Hey lady- I am sorry you are so unhappy with your pics. I know you only looked at a few and I am sure you have a ton on there. Before you make and prejudgements look at ALL the photos. If you are still unhappy you know I can't say enough about Misty. Maybe she is available and her CD only package isn't much more than Randy I think. She really is worth it and I don't think you will be disappointed at all. She is a doll to work with and she is very talented. I think it would just be a matter of availabilty at this point.

Good luck!

[MainStMandy]

You looked great! I definitely see what you mean though, I am super picky with pictures and I would have been disappointed. You may be able to fix some of them on your own, by cropping and adjusting the shadows, etc., I know probably not what you really want to do.

I'm with Torsie, I absolutely love the Roots. I know they are more expensive than a lot of other photographers in the area but they are totally worth it to me. I loved all my engagement pics and they are truly a delight to be around. You also get the engagement session as part of their package, so you could redo your e-pics or I'm sure they'd let you do a Trash the dress or just married session instead if you couldn't make it down there for epics.

Good luck with everything!

Thank you :) It's not even that they didn't come out how I wanted...they are just bad. And I know they were only engagement pictures, but as a professional he should have the same standard of quality.



I'm really freaked out now! I have put all my deposits down on Randy....I would be really upset if I ended up with bad pics :sad2:
Don't be...I seem to be the exception to the rule. Everyone else seems to love him and get great phoots.

Hey lady- I am sorry you are so unhappy with your pics. I know you only looked at a few and I am sure you have a ton on there. Before you make and prejudgements look at ALL the photos. If you are still unhappy you know I can't say enough about Misty. Maybe she is available and her CD only package isn't much more than Randy I think. She really is worth it and I don't think you will be disappointed at all. She is a doll to work with and she is very talented. I think it would just be a matter of availabilty at this point.

Good luck!
When I got home from work Eric and I went through all 450 photos. He was as shocked as I was as to how bad they really are. I wish you guys could see...maybe once I upload them directly from the disk to shutterfly you can get a better view. The light is off in so many pictures...akward poses...blurryness. We just aren't happy. Thanks for the positive review of Misty! I'll look into her. Since the wedding is on a Wednesday we don't seem to be running into a problem with availablity. It's just stressful!

[DisneyBrideToni]

I am with Dawn on Misty. I adored her and her husband Nelio. They were so much fun. Bobby and I still talk to them to this day. I know Dawn still talks to them too. They are like friends. I am not sure if she still does but she did offer a discount to Disney brides.

[pezaddict231]

Thank you :) It's not even that they didn't come out how I wanted...they are just bad. And I know they were only engagement pictures, but as a professional he should have the same standard of quality.

I feel so terrible for you guys. I would be so upset too. It shouldn't matter if they were engagement or wedding pictures. They are still important to you and you were still paying for his time and services, so they should have been taken just as seriously. Especially given that he is hired to be your wedding photographer, I would think he should try even harder to make sure you were happy and to answer your emails. :sad2:

I'm glad that you are finding other photographers are still available and I hope it all works out. I know it's stressful now but at least now you can do something about it. I hope it all works out. :flower3:

[acwinsett]

I can speak for my experience with Misty and tell you that she was committed to perfection during our engagement photos. She had the same type of passion for her work that my sweetie has for directing video. She took more time than I thought she would, she made sure that every hair was in place during every shot (and I have a LOT of hair to manage!) Our photos took a few weeks to be posted, and we had so many of them (like 800-something) to choose from. And while I didn't LOVE every single one of them, it wasn't due to photography mistakes. And there are so many that I DID love, it took awhile for us to choose our favorites for the guest book.

We got the CD-only package and it was well worth the money. Misty and Nelio are very fun and l look forward to working with them in December!!!

[MainStMandy]

I am with Dawn on Misty. I adored her and her husband Nelio. They were so much fun. Bobby and I still talk to them to this day. I know Dawn still talks to them too. They are like friends. I am not sure if she still does but she did offer a discount to Disney brides.

Thanks!! Both your's and Dawns pictures are just beautiful!

I feel so terrible for you guys. I would be so upset too. It shouldn't matter if they were engagement or wedding pictures. They are still important to you and you were still paying for his time and services, so they should have been taken just as seriously. Especially given that he is hired to be your wedding photographer, I would think he should try even harder to make sure you were happy and to answer your emails. :sad2:

I'm glad that you are finding other photographers are still available and I hope it all works out. I know it's stressful now but at least now you can do something about it. I hope it all works out. :flower3:
I will be less stressed once I talk to Randy and get it sorted. I don't mind so much having to find someone else. But my problem is, Randy gets such good reviews here and look what I got...how do I know for the wedding!

I can speak for my experience with Misty and tell you that she was committed to perfection during our engagement photos. She had the same type of passion for her work that my sweetie has for directing video. She took more time than I thought she would, she made sure that every hair was in place during every shot (and I have a LOT of hair to manage!) Our photos took a few weeks to be posted, and we had so many of them (like 800-something) to choose from. And while I didn't LOVE every single one of them, it wasn't due to photography mistakes. And there are so many that I DID love, it took awhile for us to choose our favorites for the guest book.

We got the CD-only package and it was well worth the money. Misty and Nelio are very fun and l look forward to working with them in December!!!

Thank you for your review of Misty. I am still looking around but she sounds wonderful. I have talked to a few other photographers as well.

I have updated my PJ with good and bad pics from Randy.

[Donald'sGirl]

Mandy did you ever stop to think your cd might be corrupted and distorting the images on the cd? Before you go bashing Randy around on the internet you should wait and talk with him. You CANNOT give an accurate opinion on someone's work on 5 pictures. Randy a fantastic photographer who has done thousands of Disney wedddings to a ton of happy brides. I suggest you take a little closer look at his work and speak with him about it before you write something on these boards.

[MainStMandy]

Mandy did you ever stop to think your cd might be corrupted and distorting the images on the cd? Before you go bashing Randy around on the internet you should wait and talk with him. You CANNOT give an accurate opinion on someone's work on 5 pictures. Randy a fantastic photographer who has done thousands of Disney wedddings to a ton of happy brides. I suggest you take a little closer look at his work and speak with him about it before you write something on these boards.

I CAN give an accurate opinion after looking at the FOUR HUNDRED AND FIFTY images he sent. The CD is not distorted in anyway, this is just bad photographer. I have not personally attacked Randy in anyway...the pictures I have recieved were terrible. He was a very nice person but MY experience with him has not been great. He has shown that he can be unprofessional. Bottom line is the quality of pictures is not something I am comfortable with and other Brides deserve to hear both sides of it. I have posted some of the pictures I have received so people can make their own judgements.

[DisneyBrideToni]

I'm sorry Mandy but I agree with you. You are entitled to your opinion also and can say so on the message board if you want to. I personally think Randy's work sucks. That is my opinion. I think you need to be happy with your pictures and not worry about what other people say to you. I agree with you. You did say that some of his pictures were nice but if you can only come out with a few nice pictures out of 450, there is something wrong there. It's fine for people to bash other vendors on here but god forbid you say anything about Randy The Great! :rolleyes:

[rebecca_boo]

I am sorry you are unhappy with your pictures. It almost seems like he knew they weren't good and has just been trying to avoid you, of course that is just my silly opinion and thought.
Also I just wanted to say Mandy should beable to have her opinion, with everything there is going to be good reviews and bad reviews and people just need to suck it up. Nobody is perfect not even Randy :)

[MainStMandy]

I just updated my PJ but thought I would update here as well. I just spoke with Randy and he was very upset. He didn't understand what I didn't like and thought they were fine...although he offered to do editing later in our conversation. He asked me several times to give him a second chance, but I am not willing to take that risk! I feel bad, but ultimately this is a service I am paying for, and I'm not being unreasonable or picky. Even if HALF the pictures came out good...why would I pay for something and receive HALF (although we received less than that!).

Toni and Rebecca thank you!! I am not trying to be mean or harsh. Randy seems like a nice guy. BUT other couples should be aware when things like this happen.

[LittleStinkerbelle]

I'm sorry that you weren't happy with your photos:sad1:. I do think you should go with your gut in terms of getting a new photog. I can tell you from experience. When I got married 9 years ago we didn't do an engagement shoot (I don't think they were as common) so the first pictures of us that I saw from our photographer were our wedding pictures and I was so disappointed. I still remember how my stomach sank when I went through the proof book the first time. There wasn't one single shot DH and I alone that I loved:sad2:. It still upsets me to this day.

Back then everything was done as printed proofs so we didn't get copies of every single picture taken. This was good and bad, I suppose. We didn't have to weed through the bad shots but on the other hand, I sometimes wonder about the pics that didn't make the cut. Maybe I would've liked some of those better, kwim? It's hard when someone else picks which version they think you look the best in.

Anyway, like I said, go with your gut! I hope it all works out :goodvibes.

[bjgrazi]

You're not being mean or harsh or bashing him all over the internet. As you can see both here and your PJ people (person) have said they weren't happy with his work.

You have to do what is best for you. You have a right to give an honest opinion and you did.

As far as him owning up to his bad work, he won't so don't expect him to. He will defend what he did. He's trying to keep you and your money. Again, do what's best for you.

[ILoveAriel]

If you wanted a photographer who edited every single picture, you should not have picked Randy in the first place. Did you not make yourself familiar with his work before you chose him and gave him your deposit money? :confused3

[sillykaren]

I'm sorry Mandy but I agree with you. You are entitled to your opinion also and can say so on the message board if you want to. I personally think Randy's work sucks. That is my opinion. I think you need to be happy with your pictures and not worry about what other people say to you. I agree with you. You did say that some of his pictures were nice but if you can only come out with a few nice pictures out of 450, there is something wrong there. It's fine for people to bash other vendors on here but god forbid you say anything about Randy The Great! :rolleyes:

I second what Toni said! Don't listen to everyone else. This is YOUR special day. You need to be happy with your photos. I'm glad you shared your experience so other brides have a chance to see both sides of things.

[Sarah <3 Disney]

If you wanted a photographer who edited every single picture, you should not have picked Randy in the first place. Did you not make yourself familiar with his work before you chose him and gave him your deposit money? :confused3

Apparently he did not edit any photos for her... he did not even look at them until they discussed this issue on the phone today. The CD was just sent out.

[MainStMandy]

I'm sorry that you weren't happy with your photos:sad1:. I do think you should go with your gut in terms of getting a new photog. I can tell you from experience. When I got married 9 years ago we didn't do an engagement shoot (I don't think they were as common) so the first pictures of us that I saw from our photographer were our wedding pictures and I was so disappointed. I still remember how my stomach sank when I went through the proof book the first time. There wasn't one single shot DH and I alone that I loved:sad2:. It still upsets me to this day.

Back then everything was done as printed proofs so we didn't get copies of every single picture taken. This was good and bad, I suppose. We didn't have to weed through the bad shots but on the other hand, I sometimes wonder about the pics that didn't make the cut. Maybe I would've liked some of those better, kwim? It's hard when someone else picks which version they think you look the best in.

Anyway, like I said, go with your gut! I hope it all works out :goodvibes.
At this point the whole thing is just uncomfortable. I don't think he reacted well (or professional) to our phone call. He just keeps insisting nothings wrong with them. I understand he wants to stand by his work, but I am the one paying for them. Thanks for your opinions :)


You're not being mean or harsh or bashing him all over the internet. As you can see both here and your PJ people (person) have said they weren't happy with his work.

You have to do what is best for you. You have a right to give an honest opinion and you did.

As far as him owning up to his bad work, he won't so don't expect him to. He will defend what he did. He's trying to keep you and your money. Again, do what's best for you.
I don't expect him to...but I guess I expected him to let it go at some point. We aren't happy...period. Sorry we don't agree but that's the way it is. I know he makes a lot of people happy.


If you wanted a photographer who edited every single picture, you should not have picked Randy in the first place. Did you not make yourself familiar with his work before you chose him and gave him your deposit money? :confused3

Apparently he did not edit any photos for her... he did not even look at them until they discussed this issue on the phone today. The CD was just sent out.

Thanks Sarah...you answered before I did. Randy didn't edit ANYTHING...he didn't know my pictures were mailed nor did he see them before they went out. That's not ok.

I second what Toni said! Don't listen to everyone else. This is YOUR special day. You need to be happy with your photos. I'm glad you shared your experience so other brides have a chance to see both sides of things.
I appreciate everyone's opinions and stories, but after going through those pictures we formed our opionion. And it's OK if we don't like his work... I know a lot of people love his work..but it turns out a lot of people don't ;)

[MyMelody]

Just read your entire PJ today from the beginning to the end...
Love some of your ideas!! Everything sounds like it's coming together...:thumbsup2 It will be here before you know it so ENJOY it!!!

On another note about your pics from Randy, I am glad he decided to refund you... It's one less thing for you to worry about ;)

I think you need to find the right photographer to DO what you expect.
You need to express your expectations!! Tell them what YOU want if you are so picky, you call your shots!!

I am saying this cause every photographer has a style that is unique to them! Just like Misty, The Roots who have a style of their own so does Randy!! I have seen magical pictures by Misty like Dawn's , Nikki's and Toni's who love her style.. I have also seen Carrie's amazing pictures by The Roots!! That does not take away from Christina's, Cam's, Amanda's and Lynn's amazing pictures done by Randy!!!


On that note what I am trying to say is that making comments on a public forum about Randy without speaking to him first to solve your issue, I think is wrong!

You could have used many words to say you did not like your pictures but saying things like he is unprofessional because he is standing behind his work.. Wouldn't you if that was your style??
You also said you are not confident in his skills or abilities...
I think after many years, he has skills and abilities!
Are you trying to say because you did not like your E pics, that the many brides he has taken pictures of thier pictures were no good?? Think about that..

I understand you are upset but I also think you should have contacted him first before coming on here and posting...

You were already unhappy with your hair, which is NOT Randy's fault..
So overall you were not going to be happy with your pictures cause you were not happy with the way you looked...

[bjgrazi]

On that note what I am trying to say is that making comments on a public forum about Randy without speaking to him first to solve your issue, I think is wrong!

You could have used many words to say you did not like your pictures but saying things like he is unprofessional because he is standing behind his work.. Wouldn't you if that was your style??
[B]You also said you are not confident in his skills or abilities...
I think after many years, he has skills and abilities!
Are you trying to say because you did not like your E pics, that the many brides he has taken pictures of thier pictures were no good?? Think about that..

I understand you are upset but I also think you should have contacted him first before coming on here and posting...

You were already unhappy with your hair, which is NOT Randy's fault..
So overall you were not going to be happy with your pictures cause you were not happy with the way you looked...

I think what she was trying to say and did say, she's not confident with him as her photographer. That is her choice and she is allowed to voice that opinion. No where did she put down anyone's experiences with him. She even went on to say that she thought he was very nice, just not for her.

No one is great all the time. Brides here should see the bad and the good, it helps them make an informed choice. There were a few other brides who actually came out and said they were less than happy with him also. It happens.

[Donald'sGirl]

There were a few other brides who actually came out and said they were less than happy with him also. It happens.

Except those brides didn't use Randy and the ones that commented on not liking him is because they don't like his style and looked around for a photographer who was more there style which is what you should do.

[MainStMandy]

Not once did I say I expected ALL the pics edited...what I did expect was a few edited...he didn't edit, he didn't review and the original pictures were not good enough to stand on their own.

You don't have to wish anyone LUCK dealing with me...my df is on the same page with me about the quality of the pictures we received. I do have a knowledge of photography (basic)...so does my MOH and my father. It doesn't take an expert to see that these pictures were bad.

I really take offense to the personal attack I have recieved. No one has to agree with me, but I am entitiled to my opinion and to share our experience. I haven't bad mouthed Randy personally...we weren't satisfied with the quality of the work we paid for. Period. This board is to help brides out...I have learned a lot about Disney weddings and I hope others do the same. Both positive and negative reviews are posted here often. We are entitled to our opinions.

[MyMelody]

You are right not all photographers take 100% pictures but saying they have no ability and skills is shooting words on a personal level...


I agree if Randy is not for her than go ahead and get someone else but to bash him on a personal level is harsh....

[MainStMandy]

I think what she was trying to say and did say, she's not confident with him as her photographer. That is her choice and she is allowed to voice that opinion. No where did she put down anyone's experiences with him. She even went on to say that she thought he was very nice, just not for her.

No one is great all the time. Brides here should see the bad and the good, it helps them make an informed choice. There were a few other brides who actually came out and said they were less than happy with him also. It happens.
Thank you! You said that very well.

Except those brides didn't use Randy and the ones that commented on not liking him is because they don't like his style and looked around for a photographer who was more there style which is what you should do.
We didn't go into this knowing Randy wasn't our style. From what we had previously seen we really liked his photography.

[bjgrazi]

Except those brides didn't use Randy and the ones that commented on not liking him is because they don't like his style and looked around for a photographer who was more there style which is what you should do.

Yes, I think they did. I know for a fact one of them did.

You like him I get it, you're happy with him, that's great. Others have their opinion, they're allowed.

No need to bash her and get nasty because she has her opinion. She's allowed, just like you.

[MainStMandy]

You are right not all photographers take 100% pictures but saying they have no ability and skills is shooting words on a personal level...


I agree if Randy is not for her than go ahead and get someone else but to bash him on a personal level is harsh....

I said he didn't display it in our photos. I also said that he was not professional with me at all. I'm sorry if that sounds harsh but I wouldn't want to work with a vendor like that.

[DisneyBrideToni]

I have one question, why is it ok for other brides to be critical of Disney's photography but not Randy? Isn't everyone on this board entitled to their own opinions? I have seen bashing of DFTW, Disney photographers, florists, etc. but nobody seems to have a problem with that. When someone has a critical opinion about Randy everyone flips out. Just because some people like their pictures doesn't mean the entire DFTW population has to as well. I can see the points about being critical in public but isn't that what this board is as well as the entire internet? If this is a place for people to discuss their weddings, I think both positive and negative comments should be discussed.

[Sarah <3 Disney]

You know what I am done, you are out of your mind with what you think is so bad about Randy, you obviously have no clue about photography and quality work. I wish your DF good luck dealing with you. I am glad you cancelled Randy because now he can focus on us brides who love his work and can appreciate his style.

Wow, there is no reason to be so completely RUDE about this issue! Saying she has no taste concerning photography? Low blow. I am sure you hardly know the girl! She just so happens to have a best friend who is also a photographer who agrees, Randy's work was not up to par. Have you been reading both this thread AND her planning journal? She did not make a general opinion after seeing just five photos, she kept an open mind. She hoped for the best. But considering the first photo on the CD was so blurry? Yeah, not good.

She claimed Randy was acting unprofessional because, guess what, he was! He would not return her phone calls or e-mails.I can understand if the man is busy photographing weddings, 'tis the season. But he should really put up an automated message saying, "Hey, I'm busy doing artsy fartsy stuff, I'll get back to you later." That would have helped the situation immensely. What else was unprofessional? He did not even look at her photos before they were sent out! If you were selling a product such as photography, wouldn't you check over your work before sending it out? Wouldn't you be the least bit curious how all of the photos turned out?

She was not expecting all of her photos to be edited, no one expects that. But there should be some sort of standard Randy applies to his photos before sending them out.

Sadly, I have to go to class right now, but damn Mandy, I am angry for you! Time to go be happy in my world of science! ;)

[MyMelody]

I have one question, why is it ok for other brides to be critical of Disney's photography but not Randy? Isn't everyone on this board entitled to their own opinions? I have seen bashing of DFTW, Disney photographers, florists, etc. but nobody seems to have a problem with that. When someone has a critical opinion about Randy everyone flips out. Just because some people like their pictures doesn't mean the entire DFTW population has to as well. I can see the points about being critical in public but isn't that what this board is as well as the entire internet? If this is a place for people to discuss their weddings, I think both positive and negative comments should be discussed.



Toni, I find it fine for her to make 100 comments about her pictures and that she did not like this or that but when you say someone has no ability to shoot a wedding and many brides here do have pictures from him.. That they have spent good money for, I think it is wrong!!

[BayouPrincess]

I have been trying to stay out of this, but you guys just don't know when to quit beating a dead horse! I'm all about "People have their own opinions", that's what makes our country great, however when it borders on slander, that's another thing.

Yes, I think they did. I know for a fact one of them did.

You like him I get it, you're happy with him, that's great. Others have their opinion, they're allowed.

No need to bash her and get nasty because she has her opinion. She's allowed, just like you.

And you just did what?



I have one question, why is it ok for other brides to be critical of Disney's photography but not Randy? Isn't everyone on this board entitled to their own opinions? I have seen bashing of DFTW, Disney photographers, florists, etc. but nobody seems to have a problem with that. When someone has a critical opinion about Randy everyone flips out. Just because some people like their pictures doesn't mean the entire DFTW population has to as well. I can see the points about being critical in public but isn't that what this board is as well as the entire internet? If this is a place for people to discuss their weddings, I think both positive and negative comments should be discussed.

as long as they're being discussed as adults and in a way that is not detremental to someone's profession. Do you really think if Randy's photography was crap that the enormous numbers of people who use him would be doing so? Really?

Wow, there is no reason to be so completely RUDE about this issue! Saying she has no taste concerning photography? Low blow. I am sure you hardly know the girl! She just so happens to have a best friend who is also a photographer who agrees, Randy's work was not up to par. Have you been reading both this thread AND her planning journal? She did not make a general opinion after seeing just five photos, she kept an open mind. She hoped for the best. But considering the first photo on the CD was so blurry? Yeah, not good.

She claimed Randy was acting unprofessional because, guess what, he was! He would not return her phone calls or e-mails.I can understand if the man is busy photographing weddings, 'tis the season. But he should really put up an automated message saying, "Hey, I'm busy doing artsy fartsy stuff, I'll get back to you later." That would have helped the situation immensely. What else was unprofessional? He did not even look at her photos before they were sent out! If you were selling a product such as photography, wouldn't you check over your work before sending it out? Wouldn't you be the least bit curious how all of the photos turned out?

She was not expecting all of her photos to be edited, no one expects that. But there should be some sort of standard Randy applies to his photos before sending them out.

Sadly, I have to go to class right now, but damn Mandy, I am angry for you! Time to go be happy in my world of science! ;)

I do not think Donald's Girl was RUDE...I think she's had about all of this she can stomach...If Mandy has decided to go another route...SO BE IT! Shut up about it and go on about your business. You've had your 15 minutes of fame bashing a well-known, award-winning photographer. I worked with Randy, (we were never able to get together) and I never had any un-professional dealings with him. It's just time to MOVE ON!

[MainStMandy]

You've had your 15 minutes of fame bashing a well-known, award-winning photographer. I worked with Randy, (we were never able to get together) and I never had any un-professional dealings with him. It's just time to MOVE ON!

Really?? That's what you think this is?? If someone else had posted about their experience with Randy earlier, we may have thought twice about booking him. It's great that none of you had an un-professioanl experience with him, but I did. And just because you say so, doesn't make our experience go away. I gave a true account of what happend to us. If you don't like it, don't read the thread.

[BayouPrincess]

I just have one more question for you then Mandy....If you hate your pictures, and they are of such bad quality, then WHY are you using one for your avatar?



DONE!

[MainStMandy]

I just have one more question for you then Mandy....If you hate your pictures, and they are of such bad quality, then WHY are you using one for your avatar?



DONE!

:lmao:

BECAUSE we liked a few of them...I have posted that about a million times. There was between 10 and 15 I liked. PLUS, WE paid for them...I can do whatever I want. Just because I posted one picture we liked doesn't make any of this go away!

[DisneyBrideToni]

Toni, I find it fine for her to make 100 comments about her pictures and that she did not like this or that but when you say someone has no ability to shoot a wedding and many brides here do have pictures from him.. That they have spent good money for, I think it is wrong!!

I feel ya Vanessa. You know I love ya! :hug: I don't remember seeing anything said about him not having the ability to photograph weddings. I am sure he has been doing it for years and does have the ability.


as long as they're being discussed as adults and in a way that is not detremental to someone's profession. Do you really think if Randy's photography was crap that the enormous numbers of people who use him would be doing so? Really?


No. I am sure they enjoy his style but that doesn't mean everyone does. I thought his earlier work was actually pretty good. Now, it seems to be a different style. I don't happen to like it but if someone else does, and they are happy with their pictures, that is fine. Maybe he is going for a new style of photography. Who knows. :confused3 I didn't see anything slanderous about what was being said but perhaps I missed that part if it was spoken somewhere else. I just thought I saw her saying she didn't like the pictures and she felt he was unprofessional.

[Jazzylolo]

Everyone just SHUT UP already!!! I tried not to say anything but you people need to be shoved off of your high horses! She did not like her photos everyone is entitled to their own opinion. Randy did not treat her in a professional way and that would make anyone unhappy! If it wasn't Randy she was talking about none of you would care one bit that she was complaining. You all have this weird love for the man and it is like she is saying one of your family members has taken bad photos. Get over it!!! This whole thing just pisses me off...:mad:

[Goldeelox9]

I think that everyone is entitled to thier own opinions....But I think that the way the OP made is sound was that Randy was not a skilled photographer and couldn't take good pictures, but stating this it insulted the brides whos pictures he did take, almost like saying that his pictures were crap. I think that is where alot of these hurt feeling came from. Brides took it as a personal attack on them that Randy's pictures sucked, like thier pictures suck.

I do agree if you were not happy with your pictures then you should not have this photographer take your wedding pictures. They are imporant and you should be happy. If you arnt then it is best todo something about it.

Now since none of the pictures were edited, did randy say that it was a mistake that your disks were sent out too soon? I do this it was professional to offer to try and fix them, and to offer another shoot or whatever. But if you weren't happy then the trust won't be there and you can't just hope that you pictures turn out for the wedding, I would be a wreck all day.

I was wondering if you had uploaded them all to a site like flickr or photobucket where you could share the album. The ones I saw were not bad, maybe not your style, but I think you had some nice ones. With you being unhappy about your make up and hair I am sure it is hard to see past that on all of the pictures. I know if there was a flaw I would not be able to look past that to actually see the picture!

Make sure when you book your next photographer you give them a list, or samples of exactally what you want. That is what I did with my Magic Kingdom Photos and I got lots of good ones! That being said, I had a Magic Kingdom and Epcot shoot and about 300 pictures, there were maybe 30 I loved. That is like 10%....You can't like them all. Also pictures I hated because I didn't think I looked right in them other people liked because they see them differantly then I do. So just remember you will only love love a few of them. I hear all the time that my Magic Kingdom Pictures were great, but I have a whole pile of ones I don't like.

Good Luck!

[tommymomo]

oh my god, are we really getting nasty about a person giving an opinion about a photographer? really? Somebody bashed the mighty Randy, get over it. I read so many posts destroying the Disney photographers and no one person took that as a personal dig.

While I agree with people who said that not ever pic is going to be loved, I would change photographers just based on phone calls,emails not being returned.If you then add that to the fact you didnt love most of the shots then , absolutely get a new person for your wedding,if not for the peace of mind on your wedding day. I read all the posts, and for the most part, she said the guy was nice, didnt say anything that was out of line in my opinion. For you Randy lovers out there, why cant you calk it up to Randy having a bad day and move on. There is no need to kill Mandy for feeling the way she does.

And for the person who said you feel bad for her husband, YOU SHOULD BE ASHAMED OF YOURSELF. who the hell are you to say such a thing.

[Skylarr29]

Randy took our engagement photos and let me just say I did not book him to shoot our wedding after that.. I didn't even care about the money lost. Let me just tell you it was the best decision I have ever made. I flew in a photographer and our photos are some of the best I have seen.

I am not going to comment on Randy's skill level because I think he is somewhat talented, not great, but not the worst... I think it all comes down to his consistency. Some couples get great photos, great attention, returned emails and phone calls etc. while others get crap. He has no set standards for his product. He edits when he feels like it and that wasn't ok with me. There should be a set standard.

I think the op can say his work is crap because for her, it was crap. We are most critical of ourselves and so it probably seems worst for her. She's entitled to her opinion. It sucks to look at someone else's photos who turned out great and then get your photos back and they aren't even close. She's disappointed.

[hmgolden]

As the OP question has been asked and answered, I am locking this thread. Please remember to play nice. Not everyone has the same experience with every vendor. There is no reason to get nasty if you difference of opinion.