Choosing a Wedding Photographer

Here in the video age, with MTV replacing the radio and television overpowering newspapers as the primary news source, it would be very easy to focus your attention on the videography aspects of your wedding day. But, although a video record of your events is a really fun way to relive your memories and basically a "must" these days, photographs are still the most traditional and intimate record of a day to remember

There's nothing like settling back for a cozy evening of reminiscences with your wedding album, and certainly, you can't hang a video up on you wall or slip one into your wallet.

The temptation to have a family friend or a relative record your wedding day as cost-cutting measure is one that should be dismissed right here and now. Your wedding will be over in the blink of an eye, but the memories recorded by a professional photographer will last a lifetime and be cherished forever by your children and grandchildren. Like all other aspects of planning a wedding, shop around early and compare prices.

Careful planning will guarantee you all the shots you'll desire and give the photographer plenty of time to get everything on film.

Leave enough time before departure to the ceremony for posed shots. Get ready early and leave about an hour from the time the photographer arrives until it's time to go. If you don't give him enough time you may miss out on many of the shots and poses you may wish you had taken the time for later on.

Allot plenty of time between the ceremony and your arrival at the reception for "formals". These formals differ from the portraits taken in advance in that they actually are taken on the day of the wedding itself but are posed shots and will be the most elegant memento of the actual wedding day. Pick your location long in advance, and if you decide on an outdoor location, make alternate plans for indoor shooting in the event of inclement weather. Your photographer will know of many locations both indoor and outdoor for great formals. Sometimes posing for formals can get a little tedious at such an exciting time, but bear with it and take direction from your photographer. Keep your wedding party "under control" until the formals are finished. Remember, these will be the most important photos of the day and there will be plenty of time to party later on.

Decide in advance how long you would like the photographer to be present and make sure the coverage you desire is included in your photography package. Many photographers will excite the reception early unless arrangements are made in advance, but that can work to your advantage if the price is a concern. Most professionals have packages available to fit smaller budgets.

Photographs are your best record of your special day, from nervous bride preparing at the house, to the exchange of rings and first kiss, to the fun and partying at your reception. And in addition to being your most portable memento, they are your most economical when distributing souvenirs of the wedding to your family and friends. (Could anyone afford the time and expense of your wedding video to send out to your guests?)

Choose carefully and early (many of the best photographers are booked up to 12 and 18 months in advance) and your photographer will provide you with a worry free, custom designed memento of your wedding that's second to none!