Photography: Capturing Memories

When planning an event, all of the decisions you make are important. You need to hire qualified professionals who will not only meet your needs, but who will also be sensitive to your concerns. Few decisions, however, are more crucial than selecting the right photographer.

The best way to find a photographer is by word of mouth. Referrals from friends, relatives and business associates are always great because they have to be extremely pleased before endorsing anyone's services. Recommendations from your reception site manager should also carry a lot of weight since they have the opportunity to work along side many photographers who visit their establishment. Then again, you could always conduct your own thorough investigation: call, make inquiries, visit, check qualifications and references, compare styles and prices.

You should feel comfortable in the presence of your photographer if not, it will show in the pictures. Remember, when the whole day is over, (the caterers go home, the flowers die, you'll probably never see the band again) the photographer is the only person with whom you'll still be in contact. Liking your photographer makes the whole process enjoyable.

Photographic packages are as different as the photographer offering them. Every photographer does something unique. Basically, who cares how big the package is if the photos are terrible? Concentrate more on the quality of the photography than the quantity that you may save. You'll be much happier in the long run. Also, let your photographer know if you would like more - formal or candid photographs or an equal combination of each in your package - so that they clearly understand what you are looking for in your package.

Confirm the prices of the packages they offer and what is included in each. Before signing any agreement be sure you've asked about the deposit, retouching charges, travel expenses, and the cost of additional prints and albums.

There should be no limit in the quantity of film used to cover an event. Factors such as logistics, time constraints, number of guests, and the film budget will always play a roll in the quantity of pictures the photographer will produce from the overall coverage. Above all, the one thing that will most likely determine the amount of images produced is the only thing you have no control over - the artistry and style of the photographer. The object is to obtain a complete photographic narrative of the day.

The difference between a good and great photographer is easy to spot. A "good" photographer will show up and take pictures on the day of the event. A "great" photographer will realize that you've honored him with the duty of capturing the moments of the most important day of your life - and that is a huge responsibility that should be taken very seriously. After all, these will be the images that your great grandchildren will see years from now. And if the photographer is truly "great", those kids will feel as if they were there themselves.

Be sure to check with the proper officials at your ceremony and reception sites as to any restrictions on the use of photography. Inform you photographer of any specific guidelines they'll need to be aware of during the wedding.