Start looking for a wedding photography as soon as possible or early in your wedding planning. The good photographers can be booked up to a year or more in advance so be sure to alot enough time for booking. Start by asking for referrals from recently married friends, coworkers, and family. Make sure you get the whole story on their experience with the photographer which includes how they were to work with.

You want to make sure you can work with the photographer even if his photos are great, its important to have a good repoire with them. You don't need additional stress on your wedding day!  Find someone who you feel comfortable with and makes everyone feel at ease. That makes for great photos too. Make sure they also have plenty of experience if you are seeking a professional photographer. Take a look at their work and ask to see samples of previous weddings they have done. A good variety of different types of weddings is a plus, such as traditional church weddings, beach weddings, or outdoor weddings. There can be different lighting and seeing it captured in his work can speak volumes.

You can also do a search online for wedding photographers in your area. Often they will post their portfolio online so you can view their work before even contacting them on the phone. This can be a good way to filter out the good and bad or inexperienced vs. experienced photographers.

You will want to interview the photographers you are considering. Also ask for references from past jobs they've done and call them. Ask the photographer questions during the interview and don't be afraid or intimidated to inquire more information from him. You are going to be spending alot of money of photos at this one day event and you want to make sure you hire the right one for the job.  Here are some examples of questions that you may want to ask:

• How long have they been doing business as a photographer?
• What type of photography do they special in?
• Are there any special type of wedding packages?
• How many photos do they take at weddings?
• What is his hourly fee or flat rate?
• How can you purchase additional photos in the future?

It's best not to use part-time photographers who only occasionally do weddings. They will most likely not have expertise in weddings and lack experience in them. If you hire a part-time photographer or even a hobbyist in photography, its best to hire a professional as well as use them as a secondary photographer. You can also leave instant cameras on the tables and have your guests take snapshots too!

Saving money on the photography may not be where you want to cut your budget if need be. Photos will be the lasting memory of your special day and you don't want to cut corners in this area. There are many other areas to cut corners, so the recommendation is to find a good professional photographer. Interview many and then make the right decision on the photographer based on experience and cost.

[ Return to Wedding Planning Articles ]