Start interviewing photographers as soon as you’ve chosen your wedding date, ceremony and reception site. Your initial phone call should help you determine if the photographer deserves a personal visit. Get a general explanation of his services and prices and make sure he’s available on your wedding date, then schedule a meeting to nail down the specifics.

Be ready with the following list of questions when you interview your potential photographer:

• Can we see your portfolio?
• How long have you been photographing weddings?
• Do you work in color, black and white or both?
• What sort of lighting will you need? Do you use soft focus or diffused lighting?
• How long will you be able to stay at the wedding?
• Do you offer any packages?
• How far in advance should we reserve your services?
• What if a photograph doesn’t turn out?
• Do you require a deposit? How much is it and when is it due?
• When is the balance due?
• What if we need to postpone or cancel?
• How much do you charge for overtime?

A professional photographer will have all required licenses and business insurances, a clean, well-maintained studio, back-up equipment, and possibly a membership in a professional association like the Professional Photographers of America (PPOC) or Wedding and Portrait Photographers International (WPPI).