Finding the Right Photographer

A good time to start looking for a photographer is about nine to twelve months in advance. Begin with recommendations from family and friends, looking through albums for quality, style and formats that you like. Some criteria to keep in mind when interviewing photographers include:

1. Do the photos have a sharp, crisp quality?
2. Can they do retouching? What about special effects?
3. Will there be an extra charge for the proofs?
4. How long do they keep the negatives?
5. Does the quoted price include the finished album?
6. Do you feel confident with the person and feel that they will perform professionally, be inconspicuous and deliver great pictures?
7. Check for a mix of shots that are technically good.
8. Look for the emotion the photo projects.
9. Is the person who is showing you the photos the same person who will be shooting your wedding?
10. Discuss costs. Work out a clear payment schedule, and obtain an itemized agreement that lists everything included in the package and the total cost.
11. Can they arrive early to capture last-minute preparations, moments with family members, and the little events that make the day complete?
12. Will they design your album for you?
13. Can you see the proofs online? Will the web address be available to friends & family? Can you order online?

Any photographer will be able to show you examples of previous work, explain what they will do on the day, and afterwards. Most work to a standard formula, with any other shots available on request.

A basic photography package will include:

• a visit to the wedding location to assess the best picture potential
• a visit to the bride's home and reception venue (if pictures are to be taken there)
• between 40 and 100 'proof' shots from which the couple make a final selection
• a choice of album
• the chance for relatives and friends to buy copies (at extra cost)
• reprint potential for a specified period of time after the wedding (at extra cost)
• insurance.

A basic package will cost from around £550, but extras may bring the price up considerably.

Proof photographs can be circulated among friends and relatives so that they may order any prints from the photographer. Copyright belongs to the photographer and pictures may not be copied without consent.

Getting the Right Shot

Make sure you discuss with your photographer in advance the types of shot you would like. There are a number of photographs that form the basis of most wedding albums:

• The Bride getting ready at her home
• The Groom and best man before the ceremony
• The arrival of the guests
• The Bride and her father leaving home
• The Bride's arrival at the ceremony venue
• The Processional
• Bride and Groom at the altar (or desk)
• Signing the Register
• The Ceremony kiss
• The Recessional
• Confetti throwing
• The Bride and Groom getting into their car
• Arrival at the Reception
• Receiving Line
• Cutting the Wedding Cake
• The First Dance
• Th...

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