How to Choose a wedding photographer

You've got the dress, booked your dream location and the flowers are on order. Now you need to find a wedding photographer. Given some of the high costs some professionals charge for capturing the precious memories of the biggest day of your life, you want to be sure that you've found the right style, price and package. After all, your wedding is one day, but the photos will last a lifetime.
With this in mind, specialist photographers Sarah and Simon (opens in a new window) share their top tips on how to choose a wedding photographer.

1. Do Your Research

There are loads of amazing wedding photographers out there, it's just a matter of finding the right one for you. Find a Wedding Photographer (opens in a new window) is a good place to start. Wedding fairs will give you the opportunity to meet different photographers and get a feel for their style of photography, as well as a sense of their prices.

2. Stay Traditional

Try and find a photographer with a timeless style - you will want to feel happy with the pictures for many years to come. Don't be bamboozled by gimmicky effects in some modern photography, they can date very quickly. The photographer shouldn't rely on Photoshop or other retouching software; it should just be used to enhance the natural light in the photographs.

3. Meet the Photographer

It's important to meet your photographer in advance; not only to give you the opportunity to talk through your requirements but also to give you time to feel comfortable with the photographer. If possible, we recommend your first meeting to be up to six months before the wedding.

4. Images

Images should be sharp and well-exposed. If your photographer is using a digital camera, make sure they can provide high-resolution images in case you want to print copies of your photographs.

5. Budget

After finding your photographer for the day, it's time to talk cold, hard cash. The last thing you want is for extra costs to show up on the bill. Most wedding photographers offer a variety of wedding packages, depending on how many images you would like and how long they will be at the wedding.

6. Shot List

It's a good idea to provide the photographer with a list of shots you require so you both know what's expected from the day. A good photographer will suggest some options but they should also be able to create a bespoke package for your needs. A list will help the photographer but will also speed up the time it takes for the formal photographs, leaving you to enjoy the rest of your day.

7. How Should the Images Be Supplied?

Many couples prefer their photographs to be supplied on disk rather than in wedding albums. Perhaps you could host the images on your own website so friends and family can access them easily? Maybe you'd like a combination of both prints and digital images? Ask the photographer which online options they offer. Remember to ask whether you will retain copyright of the images, and make sure the images won't have a watermark so you can print off your own images. If you do want a traditional photo album, ask to see some examples so you can approve the print finish. Check the delivery times too - you don't want them sitting in the post office while you are on your honeymoon!

8. Picture Perfect

Some photographers offer a pre-wedding shoot, normally a few weeks before ceremony. If you feel camera-shy, a pre-wedding shoot may help you feel more comfortable and will give you an opportunity to practice your poses.

Source:http://www.channel4.com/4beauty/weddings/wedding-tips/how-to-choose-a-wedding-photographer