Finding The Perfect Wedding Photographer...

This is not an easy task to accomplish and will take some time and patience:

First, talk to family, friends and coworkers that were recently married. They can tell you what they liked/disliked about their wedding photographer. Usually word of mouth is the best advertising and you know you can trust your family and friends. Ask to see some of their wedding photos and their wedding album.

Second, search the internet for a local photographer in the area you are getting married. It will be much easier to arrange this and you probably wont need to pay additional travel expenses. Check out their website and style. Set up a meeting with the photographers you like the most and that are within your budget. Make sure they bring along sample albums or portfolio of their work. Find out what is included in their packages, how many hours of coverage, number of prints, DVD of images, experience, etc. How is their personality? Will they be unobtrusive during the ceremony and reception? Are they the actual photographer that will be shooting your special day? Are they dependable, honest? How long before you receive prints and album? Take all this into consideration when choosing your photographer. Ask lots of questions, they won't mind. After all this is your wedding day. The day you've been planning for a year or more. You want every detail to be perfect.

Third, make your decision based on style and quality of work. Budget is important too but this is a once in a lifetime event. The pictures from your wedding are of the utmost importance. Please don't skimp too much in this area. Be sure the photographer you choose shoots in the style you desire and sees your vision! Don't wait too long. Look over the contract and pay the retainer to hold your date. Go over details with your photographer. Make sure you know exactly what you will be getting before signing the contract. Keep in touch with your photographer throughout the year.

I hope this helps in your search for a wedding photographer. Remember this is a very important day for you, one you have been planning for many months, even years. Your photographer has a very important job and only gets one chance to get it right. Do your homework and don't cut costs in this area too much. Good luck!