Tip on Table Cameras

[Ski Girl]

I was recently discussing table cameras with a friend of mine and she had a great idea...

I was thinking of having two 27 exp. cameras on each table. My friend said that instead of buying 30 cameras, I should buy one for each table but designate one person at each table as the "table photographer". The guest selected would be happy to be included as a helper and most likely your pictures will come out better since they'll want to do a good job for you! PLUS - you won't lose any of the cameras to people that may just take them home.

The best part - you'll save a ton for not having to pay for the extra cameras and the developing! At $5 per camera and about $8 for processing, her idea will save me almost $200!! I'll still come out of the day with over 400 candid pictures!

I can't think of any pitfalls to this idea - if someone does, please let me know!

[jen6575]

Here's some: I've heard on many brides getting poor quality pictures from the disposables - this is from user error, not the camera itself. Just make sure you leave clear instructions attached to the cameras. Also, you may not end up with the variety of pics you want. For example, everyone is going to be camera happy when you and the groom are announced and walk into the hall. You'll end up with 20 of the same picture! Your guests will take goofy pictures unless they really take the picture-taking seriously. So, my advice would be, go ahead and do this ONLY if you will also have a professional take posed photographs. Otherwise you may miss out on some of the shots you really wanted.

[Dyonia]

I got married about two months ago, and I had two cameras on each table. Unfortunately, most of the pictures so far have turned out rather badly -- the reason being that most people do not stand close enough to the subject for the flash to have any effect! As the other poster suggested, definitely put some sort of instruction with the camera, with a reminder to stand close enough (between 4 and 8 feet is typically best) to the subject!.

Best wishes!
--D

[sarsah]

Another alternative would be to ask a few of your guests to be 'photographers'. These should be people who are good with a camera and would be pleased with your asking. Buy them some rolls of film and ask them to take pictures throughout the evening.

My cousin did this -- asked one of the nephews (he was 12 at the time) to be a 'photographer' as his special place in the wedding. He went around to every table and had those seated there get together and pose. He also took a lot of candid photos and they came out great. It was much better than taking a chance on those disposable cameras.

Sarah....