When you’re looking for the right photographer, you want a professional who’ll understand and work toward the outcome you envision. To hire the right person for the job, decide on your likes and dislikes and discuss them in detail with all prospective photographers.
Look for a photographer who you feel comfortable with among the crowd. Find one who you believe will have a good rapport with your friends and family; he/she must be a team player and willing to work with everyone involved. Any abrasiveness you sense at your meeting will be worse on your wedding day.

When inquiring about prices, don’t ask, ‘How much do you charge?’ Rather, because your expectations and individual needs influence the final cost, ask, ‘How much should I spend to get what I want?’

Insist on a full disclosure of prices for additional prints and albums so you won’t have any surprises. Inquire about ways you can save money, too. For example, if your wedding is smaller, consider getting professional portraits done during the week rather than on the weekend.

There are some differences to consider between a large studio and an independent photographer. Some couples are more comfortable dealing with a large photography studio, as they offer backup if your photographer gets sick. However, most large studios employ subcontractors who may be new at the trade or for whom photography is a source of supplemental income. You’ll receive more personal attention with a small studio or independent and likely will deal directly with your actual photographer at all times. Therefore your album will better reflect your wishes.

Whomever you choose, sign a contract before your wedding date. Make sure everyone involved understands and agrees upon the conditions outlined in the contract. Too often couples are disappointed with their results because they assumed their verbal, not written, instructions would be followed.

Above all else, find a photographer who acts professionally and interacts well with both of you as a couple. Hire someone who appreciates the importance of your day and is eager to capture it all.