HOW TO CHOOSE A WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHER

When you're planning a wedding, one of the most important things you have to keep in mind is the choice of a photographer. You may be tempted to let one of your relatives shoot the big day with his compact camera. Or have your friends handle single-use cameras to take pictures. But, while both these options are inexpensive, you don't have a guarantee that they will produce decent pictures. Which is why, it is best to hire a professional for your wedding and have many beautiful photographs to show for it later.

But the tough part is finding the right wedding photographer with the personality and the photographic style that suits you. Ensuring images in the latest styles, the perfect album presentation and a lot more in a budget that suits you are some important factors that you can keep in mind while hiring a wedding photographer. Here are a few more pointers:

1. Be Thorough in Your Research: You will need to spend time on research, on meeting photographers, and on reviewing portfolios. While you will come across several listings of wedding photographers in the Yellow Pages, finding an experienced one who has expertise with weddings is the key. Besides this, you can look up advertisements in your region. You can also do a web search to find web sites of local studios. These will provide information about their qualifications and allow you to view some of their past work. You can even visit bridal shows to familiarize yourself with photographic styles that you might prefer. In such a case, get a business card from photographers whose work seems appropriate.

2. Get Referrals: You should ask friends for feedback on their wedding photographers. If you get favorable comments, you should ask to see their wedding albums. This will give you a good idea about the photographer's work and style of functioning. You can also get recommendations from catering or wedding coordinators about reliable photographers.

3. Know Your Photographer: After you research has given you a good number of leads, narrow the field by reviewing brochures and web sites. Then book a consultation meeting with several photographers to determine what they can offer and if they suit your budget. You also need to meet the photographers to find out if you're compatible. There can be many stressful situations on a wedding day. You will want a photographer who can help calm your nerves and not add to the stress.

4. Style of Photography: As you review portfolios, you'll find three basic styles –traditional, contemporary and photojournalistic. Each has merit, but which is right for you? Well, the answer to that is simple – select the style of photography that appeals to you emotionally.

5. The Final Decision: After you decide on the photographer, sign a contract that is beneficial to you as well as him. Make sure the contract includes a date for delivery of the proofs as well as the final album with enlargements. Along with your deposit or retainer, you have now successfully hired a photographer for the big day!