To help select your professional photographer, keep these thoughts in mind: Hire a professional, don’t trust your wedding memories to a friend with a camera. Interview as many photographers and review as many wedding albums as you can to find the style you like. Reserve your photographer as early as possible. The best photographers tend to be booked months in advance.

Ask the following questions:
What packages are offered?
How many photos are included in each package?
Are the “proofs” yours to keep?
Is there a set number of reprints you must order?
What is the cost for additional time or photos?
How much is the deposit and when is it due?
When is the balance due? Is there a travel charge?
Are the negatives available to purchase?
If so, do you have to wait a specified time before you can purchase them?

Most importantly, view the photographer's own photos. See if you like the style of photography and book as early as possible.

Black and white pictures are making a comeback and many couples request a mix for their albums however black and white photographs need to be done by hand and so are more costly then color.

If you hire someone who uses a medium camera, not a 35mm, the negatives are larger giving better resolution and print clarity but the cost is higher. 35mm photos can still give you excellent pictures and save you money.

Be sure your photographer carries backup equipment--camera, batteries and flashes.

(Encourage your guests and friends to bring their cameras to the reception or provide 'one-time use' cameras at each table for candid shots of the wedding couple and their guests.)