I am also very partial to Randy Chapman, he did a wonderful job for our wedding and our total cost for the day including our entire alblum (60 8x10 prints), parent alblums, engagement session and other prints was $3500. I was able to customize our package and get only what we wanted with Randy. I sat down and calculated what it would run with DPS for the "same" package that we got from Randy and Disney's photography would have cost at least twice as much. In addition, Randy gives you the negatives (which is very nice and highly unusual!) Remember when pricing to look at what prints (if any) come with your package. In general with DPS you are just paying for the photographer's time plus a not so generous credit towards your alblum prints. Think about how large of an alblum you want other additional prints, enlargements, parent alblums etc that you desire and take the time to calculate the cost! Going with DPS is simple, however cost is a very limiting factor. Most of the outside local photographers are very reputable and their work is extremely good. You also have the advantage of talking directly with the person who will be photographing your wedding before hand personally to discuss your wishes....whereas with DPS you get a staff photographer who is assigned to work that particular event. If cost is not an issue, than go with whichever business you feel most comfortable with. I would strongly suggest that you call around and get a feel for what is out there. The disneymooner website may be helpful, if I recall correctly they have a list of the photographers that most Disney brides use outside of DPS and you can visit their websites and call them to get more information.
-Marne
06-16-03