How to Choose

As an art form, photography is a powerful way to capture the essence of a moment. The money invested in hiring a reputable, professional photographer for your wedding day helps avoid the risk of lost moments, blurry faces and the inevitable red-eye that so often characterizes snapshots taken by untrained shutterbugs—even if your Uncle Albert with his digital camera means well!

Here's help to take you through the process of finding a wedding photographer that suits your style.

• Word-of-mouth goes a long way, so start by relying on family and friends who have already exchanged "I Dos" and can recommend a reputable studio or photographer.
• Attend a wedding show, and look at the different styles of photography to decide which ones appeal to your eye.
• Interview several photographers, and select someone who makes you feel very comfortable. When you "click" with the photographer, chances are your photos will also look more natural.
• Before you hire, it's important to closely consider the portfolio of anyone you are thinking of enlisting for the job. Consider the following when looking at their work: Are there a variety of poses and expressions illustrated? Do the people look relaxed? Is there a variety of locations and set-ups? The final choice of photographer will be influenced by your taste in photography and the theme of your wedding day.

What to Ask Before You Pick a Shooter

• Can you see samples of the photographer's wedding work? If you're dealing with a studio, will the person you speak with during a consultation actually be the photographer assigned to your wedding day?
• How much experience has the photographer had with weddings? Ask for testimonials or client referrals and call a couple of these references.
• How are fees charged: by the hour or for a flat-fee package? Make certain to detail any additional costs; from special techniques used, to types of wedding albums that will be provided, right down to the photographers' travel or parking expenses.
• What options are available? Can your photographs be a combination of colour and black and white?
  
• Can they suggest a location for pictures to be taken between the ceremony and the reception?
• How will the photographer and his or her assistant dress on the day of the wedding?

Cheers,