Choosing a wedding photographer

A picture is worth a thousand words.

Wedding pictures should also be worth a thousand hours. All those months of decision-making, booking, organizing and scheduling can feel like a geological epoch, while the ceremony and reception sometimes seem to be over in a flash.

Because you won't get a second chance to record these important moments, you need to be sure the camera is rolling and the right person is behind it. So get familiar with the basics of wedding photography first. This page will give you an overview of the most important considerations.

You may also want to consider buying a new camera (digital, point-and-shoot, or SLR, or a new camcorder) to record the great event.

Book early and know your budget

Before you begin selecting a photographer, it's important to know as much as possible about the process and final results.

Two of the most important things are booking and budget:

1. Book as early as possible!
   
   The best photographers and videographers are often engaged months ahead. As a general rule of thumb, it's a good idea to nail things down at least six months before your wedding day.
   
   
2. Budget for the cost
   
   Wedding photos are not cheap, and the cost varies according to the professional's rates and the services you want. Some couples spend as much as 10 to 20 percent of the entire cost of their wedding on photos or video. Be prepared to spend at least $500 for even a few formal portraits. Wedding albums usually start at $1,000, minimum.
   
   

It's also important to know as much as possible about the process so you can make the best choices. How many pictures will be taken? How intrusive is videotaping a ceremony? How long will it take to receive the photos?

Here are five things you should know up front:

What are your choices?

Your options can seem endless, ranging from traditional portraits to candid, photojournalistic shots captured throughout the ceremony and reception. The photographs themselves can be full color, black and white, hand-tinted or even antiqued.

Wedding videos have never been more popular. Again, these can range from fairly straightforward documentary style presentations to more elaborate productions supplemented by stills, montages and special effects. With all the choices and combinations available, it's easier than ever to choose exactly what's right for you.

Read more about types of wedding photography.

Choosing a photographer/videographer.

The secret to getting the kind of visual record of your wedding that you want begins months before the event. That's the time to select your photographer or videographer. Referrals are the best place to start. Check with family, friends, the manager of the facility where the wedding will take place or other local wedding pros. Make a list of these and other possible candidates you've gleaned from ads and local yellow pages. Then get on the phone. Screen your choices by availability, price and the services they offer. When you've narrowed the list make an appointment to discuss your specific needs. Be clear about what you're looking for, ask a lot of questions and get a sense of the photographer's personality, too. Is this someone you would feel comfortable working with?

Most important, ask to see examples of the photographer's or videographer's work. Does it reflect the style and quality you're looking for? Make sure you see complete wedding packages - not just best shots culled from lots of different occasions.

Read more about finding the right photographer for you.

Get it in writing

Once you've settled on a photographer, get your agreement in writing, with all services itemized. Read and understand this contract carefully. Most photographers expect you to make a deposit during this appointment to secure the booking.

More specifics on the contract.

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