Wedding Photographer

By Dawn McEntire

One of the most important decisions to be made while planning a wedding is which wedding photographer to use.  Of course we all want the dress to be perfect, the flowers to be arranged perfectly, the food to be delicious and the reception hall to be gorgeous, but the wedding photographer should not be pushed down on the list of important things.  If a sub par wedding photographer is chosen, the memories of the decision will be apparent each time you look at the photos. 

When choosing a wedding photographer, be sure that the photographer has handled events of a larger scale like a wedding before.  Smaller photography studios can suit your needs, but be sure that they are capable of taking pictures of your event accordingly.  They should have enough staff and equipment so that they do not miss one moment of your day.

In addition, look through photos that the wedding photographer has taken of other weddings or similar events.  Each person has a different style, so you will want to be sure that your idea of what a wedding photo should look like is what the photographer has in mind as well.  Be that black and white photos, the poses that are used or how many candid photos are taken, you will want to make certain the photographer knows of your desires and is capable of producing them. 

Once you find a wedding photographer you like, make sure the pricing is something that is discussed before the event.   A higher price doesn’t necessarily mean better pictures, or even a style that you like.  Take into consideration if there is a limit to how many photos will be taken, how many photos you will be able to order with your package, how much each additional photo will cost, and if you will be able to keep the proofs.  Also be aware that some wedding photographers require dinner at the reception for themselves and their assistants, which is certainly something to think about before you hand in your final head count to your reception hall!

In the end, you absolutely can focus on the appearance aspects of your wedding, from the dress to the flowers.  However, be sure to not lose sight of what will be important in remembering the day 30 years from now.  A good wedding photographer will make the memories that much better while you flip through your wedding album full of beautiful pictures.