Choosing Your Wedding Photographer

Choosing a wedding photographer is probably one of the biggest decisions you will make when planning your big day. Your elegant wedding album will be one of your most treasured possessions for years to come.

A great way to start is with a face-to-face meeting with the photographer. Here you will get a feel for the personality that a wedding photographer must have to be able to capture every single detail of your day. However, if you are planning a destination wedding, chances are you might not meet your photographer until he or she shows up to begin taking pictures. It is important that you communicate with the person you choose so that they have an understanding and a feel for your likes and dislikes. You wouldn’t want to hire a photojournalistic style photographer if you want posed traditional shots. If you prefer your wedding story to be told through pictures, make sure that you choose someone that has a passion for storytelling.

When talking with your photographer, ask for letters of references. Does your photographer have a website or portfolio? How many photographers will cover your event? Will your photographer provide a contract? How are payments made? When is the final payment due? All of these are questions that must be asked. I highly recommend getting a contract so that everything is in writing and no detail can be overlooked.

Let’s face it. There are so many things happening on your wedding day that chances are you won’t even remember the details. Choose a photographer that will take pictures of your wedding favors, your cake, your buffet line - all the little things that you might be too busy notice will be appreciated later. You might have your photographer come to the event early so that they can capture a few shots of you getting ready, giving your bridesmaids their gifts, putting on your garter, and of course the pictures of you and your parents before you become a wife!

A very helpful tip is to make a list of "must haves" for the photographer. Do you want a special picture of your wedding rings on the ring pillow? Maybe you have a special grandparent that you really want to have a picture of. Did you receive a cherished gift that you will be using in your ceremony? Your photographer won’t know these things unless you tell them. Jot down your ideas as you think of them, including names of the special people, and provide it for your photographer.

Talk with your photographer about their flexibility. You want someone who will be fun and easy to work with. Ask them how they feel about other people taking pictures while they are shooting. Some photographers have a very strict policy on this so that picture time runs smoothly. You need to feel comfortable with your photographer, because you are going to be spending several hours with them!