Picture Perfect
What to consider before the flashbulbs start popping

By Michelle Warren
Photographers are hired to capture moments in time that tell a couple's story. And choosing a photographer is one of the happy couple's biggest decisions — the photographs will tell the story long after the last dance has been danced and the last toast toasted.

There are a number of factors to consider before choosing a photographer.

Set a budget
Professionals suggest couples set their photography budget before shopping around. Photographers give different things for the money. Some charge extra to go to the reception, while some include that in the package.  Set your budget and what's important to you, and then find a photographer that can do what you need.

Tricia (Buxton)Derringer did just that for her August 2001 wedding.

"We came up with a range for what we wanted to spend on the pictures alone and looked until we found someone who could give us a package that fit what we were hoping for," she said. "It is amazing how different packages from different photographers are set up. It really does help visiting with them. You can compare apples to apples."

If you can't afford a professional, try and find a student or someone who's learning photography to photograph your wedding.

Get to know your photographer
Another important part in the selection process is meeting the actual photographer who will be at the wedding. Some studios have multiple photographers, and it's important to know which one you will be dealing with. Meet that person and look at their work. Nothing on the wall or in the sample albums will be mediocre, so you need to ask for references. Someone who has dealt with the photographer before will be able to tell you much more than the photos on the walls.

You certainly don't want to end up with a horror story about the loud, controlling photographer at your wedding. Referrals can save you the disappointment of a less-than-ideal photographer.

Make your wishes known
Even the best photographer will not provide exactly what you want if she doesn't know what that is. Speak up, and be specific when stating your wishes.
It's necessary to plan what's important in pictures beforehand. If a bride has a shot that's the most important, she needs to communicate it to the photographer in advance. Because after the wedding is too late. §
MacDonald Services