STEP 1: Once you have booked your ceremony site, contact three to five wedding photographers.  Make an appointment to see the studio and meet the actual photographer.

STEP 2: At your visit, view as many pictures as possible from past work, make sure to view the photographers own work and not just a compilation of the studio’s greatest hits.  You’ll want to see actual proof books and albums from recent weddings.

STEP 3: Are the pictures you’re viewing striking an emotional chord with you? Are the pictures in-focus and well framed? Common problems among amateur photographers are over and under exposed prints.  If you can’t see the details in the cake and the delicate lace in the gown or the subjects look washed out then the pictures are overexposed.  Make sure the photographer uses a variety of poses and unique concepts; you want to be able to add your personality to your pictures.

STEP 4: Ask the photographer questions you may have in regard to what you want captured at your wedding.  Get a good reading on the photographer’s style and personality.

STEP 5: After your visits pick the photographer you think offers the best quality for the most affordable price.  Don’t let any photographer pressure you into a quick decision.

STEP 6: Get a written contract from the photographer. Before signing it, take it home and read it thoroughly.  A good contract should specify:

-The name of the actual photographer who will be at your wedding.
-When the photographer will arrive and how long they will stay.
-A minimum number of proofs to be provided.
-The exact number of prints and the type of album.
-The exact date the proofs and the final album will be delivered.
-Provisions in case the photographer gets sick or can’t make the wedding.
-A specific schedule with due dates for deposits/final balance payments.
-Any additional charges for travel time, overtime costs, or other fees.

STEP 7: A few weeks before the wedding set up another meeting with the photographer to go over details.  Clearly state the pictures you want, people you want in pictures, etc.  The more detailed instructions you give the better the odds the pictures will meet your expectations.  Make a list of the pictures you want and bring two copies to the wedding, this should leave little room for unwanted photos.

Photos by GonnaGetWed.com members, Christina Kjar Photography, Photography by KJ and The Photography Shoppe.