Wedding Photographer

Fantastic Photos: Choosing Your Wedding Photographer

With all the time you and your fiancé have spent preparing for your wedding day, the images your photographer takes will be the only tangible memories you have. You want to make sure they are the best. Referrals are usually the best and easiest way to get a wedding photographer you know you are going to like. If you don't have a referral from someone (friends, other vendors, etc) make consultation appointments with at least five photographers. Have a list of must-have shots (we've complied a starter list for you), a list of all your questions and make sure you know exactly what you are paying for and receiving.

Find a photographer whose style you like. Almost every photographer has a website and galleries where you can check out some of their previous work. You also want to make sure you have a great rapport with your photographer. Other than you fiancé, this is the person you will be spending most of your day with and you want to make sure you get along with them! During the interviewing process, find out if the person you are talking to is the person who will be shooting your wedding. You don't want a complete stranger showing up at your house on your special day!

While budget is a huge factor, it shouldn't be the only deciding one. There are photographers who offer a payment plan, but you have to ask for it. If you find someone you absolutely adore, talk with them and figure out a plan that will be a win/win for both parties.

What type of photo style are you looking for in regards to the mood of your wedding day? Do you prefer a more traditional look or would you want a photojournalist style? To get a perfectly balanced album, keep the basics in mind but don't be afraid to have some pictures that don't follow the "police line-up wedding party" shots.

If your budget allows, another great way to maximize your moments captured is to hire a second photographer, exclusively for those behind-the-scenes shots. These photos will add another dimension to your album. A great trick for pictures is to get people laughing. This adds a more natural feeling to pictures, and people feel more comfortable when they are reacting to something instead of trying to force that smile.

Must-Have Shots:
These are some of the must have shots for your album, your list could be a lot longer or a lot shorter. However your list looks, make sure you have a copy and your photographer has a copy.

• full-length and close up of the bride
• full-length and close up of the groom
• bride with parents
• groom with parents
• bride with the maid of honour
• groom with the best man
• bride tossing the bouquet
• groom removing and tossing the garter
• the entire wedding party (three shots: with the bride only, with the groom only and with the couple)
• lighting the unity candle (or sand ceremony, etc.)
• cutting the cake
• exchanging rings
• the new couple kissing
• bride and/or groom getting ready
• reception photos

Enjoy your day and your memories!