Tip #1 - Be sure to look at samples of the photographer's work.

This sounds like an obvious suggestion, however, you would be surprised at how many people book a photographer without ever seeing samples of his or her work. 

When you go to a studio to book a photographer you will be shown albums, photos, enlargements, etc.  At most studios you will be dealing directly with the photographer who will be shooting your wedding, however, at some studios or venues you will be talking to a sales person.  Many of these studios and venues have groups of photographers who are hired just to photograph weddings so, when you are viewing the the samples, who's work are you looking at?  Be sure the sample photos you are looking at were taken by the photographer who will be shooting your wedding.  Insist on it. 

Tip #2 - Ask what equipment the photographer will bring to your wedding.

I always have 2 cameras, 2 flash units and a wide selection of lenses with me.  Professional photographic gear is very reliable but, even the best equipment can break down.  Are you willing to gamble your wedding photos on the reliability of one piece of equipment?

Tip #3 - Be sure to see some large prints.

Many people can take photos that look good as 4x6 prints or small images on a website. The true test of a quality photograph is when you make a large print.  Be sure to see some big prints (like 16x20's) of wedding photos shot by the photographer you are thinking of hiring.

Tip #4 - Are the photos of real weddings?

Ask if the photos you are looking at are shots of actual weddings. Many photographers will hire professional models to shoot simulated wedding photos. These would be the featured photos in their portfolio; however, it is very unlikely they could duplicate the quality of these photos on a wedding day.

Tip #5 - Is this person a true professional?

Ask the photographer if photography is his/her full time job. Many hobbyists will shoot weddings on the weekend to finance the hobby. Are you willing to take a chance and hire an amateur to photograph your wedding? A true professional is someone who earns a living at their craft.

Thanks for taking the time to visit my website.

Paul Potter                                                                                      Click Here to go back to the Wedding Page

Choosing a Wedding Photographer