How to Choose a Wedding Photographer

Follow these wedding photographer tips and go over them before your wedding day. But before the big day, you are probably wondering how to choose a wedding photographer? Are there certain things you should look for? This article will cover some of the important subject that you should touch on when interviewing with several wedding photographers.

How to Choose a Wedding Photographer

To ensure good-quality pictures, it is best to employ a professional photographer. When you are selecting a photographer, study their portfolio; ask if the same person who shot the pictures you are examining will be the one to shoot your wedding; and ask about any package plans he or she offers.

The cost of the different packages is controlled by adjusting the quality and sizes of prints, the size of the album, and any extra services. These vary from one photographer to another, so be sure you understand exactly what is being offered.

When you have decided on a photographer, discuss any restrictions to be observed during the ceremony, concerning such details as flashbulbs and the photographers being at the altar or otherwise visible to guests.

When planning your formal bridal portrait one to two months in advance, have your hair styled and makeup applied the same as it will be on your wedding day. More and more couples are having their formal pictures taken - including the bridal portrait - at the ceremony site before the service. It is a tradition, but one based on superstition, that prevents the bride and groom from seeing each other on their wedding day before the ceremony.

By having your portrait taken on your wedding day

- you avoid having to transport your gown to a studio and back, running the rish of soiling it.

- you will have your own wedding bouquet in the picture.

- you will be photographed at your best - a glowing bride.

To take pictures before the wedding, you, your groom, your attendants, and families will need to be at the ceremony site approximately three hours before the wedding, allowing thirty to forty-five minutes to dress, up to two hours for photographs, and thirty to forty-five minutes to prepare for the arrival of the wedding guests.

By taking all the formal pictures before the wedding, the groom will not have that special moment of first seeing you as you come down the aisle. Therefore, arrange a time for the two of you to be alone immediately before having your pictures taken. This could also be a special time spent with both sets of parents or with your maid of honor and best man. Be creative with this time - the sharing of special music, poetry, scripture, or prayer.

If you want to wait until the ceremony for the groom to see you, then schedule only the taking of the separate formals and individual family pictures just prior to the ceremony time. Out of consideration for your guests, set a time limit for finishing the formal pictures after the ceremony.

You may want to designate a close friend of family member to assist the photographer at the reception by identifying other special people to be photographed.

Be aware that viewing your proofs can be an emotion - packed time. Undoubtedly you will need to eliminate some great pictures to maintain your budget.

Robert Reno works for Encore Entertainment. His team provides DJs and lighting for Michigan wedding receptions. Visit the following links for more info about How to Choose a Wedding Photographer or the wedding DJ in Michigan.