So, you are engaged and now it’s time to start planning the big day.    I’m guessing Pinterest was one of the first stops in your hunt for all things wedding; and because there is SO MUCH available, it can be overwhelming.    Just in photographic styles alone you will see a variety of styles:    traditional, contemporary, casual, formal, vintage, fun…etc.      So, what’s a girl to do?

I recommend you look at each of these styles and decide which you want to preserve your special day.    Trendy is fun, at the time, but can “date” you images; so keep that in mind.  You want your wedding images to be captured in such a way that speaks to you and to your vision of the day.    These images will become your first family heirloom.

Once you have decided on a style you love, the search for a photographer who can capture that for you begins.  Google and word-of-mouth referrals are the next step in your search.   Naturally, budget has to come into play.     I was married on a budget and sadly budget photography was not something I realized would become a regret.  I have very few “decent” images from my wedding and only 1 that I really love.    So, I encourage you, remember what lasts long after the day and choose wisely.

Now it is time to start the interview process.   You should keep in mind that you’ll be spending a LOT of time with this photographer.    Your day will go so much smoother if you hire someone you feel comfortable with and whom you trust to handle each situation as it arises.

You’ll want to ask to see entire wedding galleries from several weddings.   If they have shot weddings at the venue you will be using, be sure to look at those.

Other issues you’ll want to take into consideration:

1.   Does the photographer have liability insurance (many venues require this).

2.  Will there be a second shooter (while not a “must” it is a huge benefit to have two shooters, you’ll get more images, different perspectives and make the day less stressful for all involved).

3.  Plan on prints and albums.   Your memories do not belong on a disc:  order prints and/or get an album – think quality in order to preserve the memories.

4.  Once you have decided who you want to use, book them!   Wedding photographers and wedding venues book early.

Finally, enjoy the process and remember, when it is all said and done, the images are forever.