One of the most important choices a couple will make is a photographer for their wedding.

There are so many important choices to make like the dress, decor, food, location, music, etc. But the choice of your photographer is one of the most important since your pictures will be one of the most lasting and cherished memories from the most important day of your life.

We’ve all heard dissapointing stories about studios doing a less than perfect job, or not delivering anything at all. By taking the time to do some research you can be assured of choosing someone who will not only provide outstanding pictures, but who can make you feel great about your choice and remove at least one worry from an event filled with stresses.

If any of your friends have gotten married in recent years , so find out who shot their wedding and if they were happy with the results. You’ll likely get some good references this way, so contact the photographers who did a great job for your friends.

It also pays to check out several photographers. Search Google or another search engine for photographers in your area – here in the capital city of Alberta Canada, you’d want to search for Edmonton Wedding Photographers. You can also do a search for something like Edmonton photography. Either way, you’ll get hundreds of results, but look at those shown on the first few pages. By visiting the websites listed, you’ll get a feel for each photographer’s style. Contact as many as you like. Their response is a good indication of how professional they are. Are the replies professional and clearly written? Have they provided any other examples or references?

Next, set up interviews with those who create the sytle of photography you want and who are in your budget. When you meet with the photographer, they’ll show you sample pictures and albums. How the photographer treats you during this interview (when they are trying to sell you on their services) is a good example of what you can expect at your wedding. Are they friendly, or are they condescending? Do they seem warm, or are you uncomfortable working with them?

They should have an agreement for you to review. Take your time to read it, as it outlines what is expected of you and them. The agreement is also for your protection, too. While it commits you to pay them, it also commits the photographer to provide the services you have agreed to.

Here are a few other thoughts that will help your photographer get the best photographs during your wedding:

1. Make a list of the most important photos you want and give it to the photographer before the wedding.

2. Make sure you know WHO is going to photograph your wedding. If the main photographer isn’t going to be the actual photographer at your wedding, find out who will – and ask to see their personal portfolio before you commit to hiring them.

3. Assign a family member or close friend to be the photographer’s liason who can point out all the important family members who you want to be sure to get pictures of.

4. Ask the photographer to attend the rehearsal so they will know where they can get the best shots without getting in the way.

5. Pre-plan where the formal and informal photographs will be taken.

6. Find out if the photographer provides finished prints, albums, thank-you cards and similar services after the wedding. These can be valuable extras that will enhance your wedding day memories and many photographers have excellent resources for these items that are of higher quality than the public can get.

By following these suggestions you won’t need to worry about your wedding photography. You’ll be able to enjoy your wedding day with the knowledge that you’ll have many memorable photographs to enjoy for the rest of your life.

The author is a professional photographer who specializes in wedding and portrait photography in Edmonton, Alberta.