A few months ago it came to my attention that one of our own, a (what I thought) very talented local Rochester photographer, Gary Ventura, had stopped delivering products to the brides after the wedding. I don’t want to delve into too much detail, but I’ll just say he’s been having “recreational medical” issues.A few other Rochester photographers were trying to get him to release his files so they could help the brides in building their albums and what not, and that is how I first heard of Gary’s troubles. Then this weekend, News10 NBC released the following disturbing story: Gary Ventura has left more than a dozen brides in the dust.
WHEC article on delinquent Rochester photographer Gary Ventura
Gary has the BBB rating of “F” and more than 20 clients are still waiting for albums and other products he promised over 2 years ago. The worst part is – HE IS STILL BOOKING WEDDINGS!!!! I can’t believe this. One of our own, a bad apple in the bunch. It leaves a sour taste in my mouth – his behavior is tarnishing all of our reputations. Please, if you are a current bride looking to book a wedding photographer, do not book with Gary!!! Or if you are a past bride of Gary Ventura, do all that you can to get files with usage rights from Gary, because that may be the only product you will ever receive. I sincerely hope that Gary finds a way out of his troubles, because his past work has been absolutely stunning, his website is immaculate, and it’s no wonder that brides are still interested in booking him. He does not have a blog or a real-time online presence, so if you don’t know to search, it’s hard to tell that he’s been in trouble for a while now.
I am making this post as a warning, a word of caution, and some advice:
1) Always make sure you meet with your photographer in person. If you can’t, then keep in touch via calling and emailing, or arrange a video conversation via Skype or AIM.
2) Make sure that your photographer is producing strong and consistent work that is CURRENT. As in, updating their website, Facebook, blog, etc. Ask your photographer how you can see their most recent wedding (mine are posted in my online proof galleries)
3) Ask your photographer what the turn around time for products is. Whatever time they say is fine, but there needs to be an established timeline. I deliver proofs within a month of a wedding, and albums within the year. Don’t be afraid to prod the photographer every once in a while, gently remind them that you’re patiently waiting.
4) If Rochester NY is your destination location, and you’re booking photographers online, send a quick email to GRPP (Greater Rochester Professional Photographers) – membership@grpp.org and ask if your photographer is a member in good standing.
5) If you question the photographer’s reputation, ask for references. Good photographers will have lots of happy brides, and will be glad to provide references right away. You don’t have to even check the references, just the fact that the photographer is willing to give the most recent brides’ contact to you should tell you something about their current status.
6) Finally, make sure you have a contract. The contract should have the package details outlined, and terms that are favorable to both parties, not just the photographer.
Best of luck to all the past and future brides! I hope you make the right choices and that your wedding day is spectacular!
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