Picture Perfect Wedding Photos

Your wedding photographs are your wedding keepsakes. They are not only a visual record of your wedding, but they are also a reflection of you and your personal style. So how do you get what you want from your wedding photographer? There are many factors to consider. Step back and look at the big picture.

Tips For Achieving Perfect Wedding Pictures

• Contact the wedding photographer as soon as possible. Good wedding photographers are often booked at least a year in advance, with Saturdays and Sundays being the most popular times for weddings.
• Think about the type, or style of photography you want. Do you like a traditional format, or do you lean toward a more informal, casual style?
• Decide what type of style you feel most comfortable with and what will work best for you. Discuss your preference with your wedding photographers so that you both agree on the "type of look" your wedding pictures will have.
• Meet with your wedding photographer and bring types of wedding photos that you like. Pictures from magazines, newspapers, or even photographs from a friend's wedding will help convey the style of photography you're looking for.
• Consider whether you only want "still shots" or if you want to include videography.
• Ask friends and family about their wedding pictures. What did they like? What did they not like about their wedding photos? Ask for their recommendations.
• If necessary, interview more than just one photographer. Ask to view a sample of his or her work. See if you both feel comfortable working together. If you don't care for the type of work, or if you feel uncomfortable, then don't hesitate to find another photographer.
• Once you have found a wedding photographer you are pleased with, listen to his or her suggestions. Discuss the kind of wedding ceremony you are planning. In addition, talk about the size and location of the wedding ceremony and the reception. If you have any specific or unusual requests let the photographer know as soon as possible.
• Ask what you and the other members of the wedding party shouls expect during the wedding ceremony and the reception. Knowing the wedding photographer's plans remove some of the stress from the big day.
• Don't forget The V.I.P. list. The Very Important People in your wedding and at the reception need to be included in the wedding photos. Avoid hurting someone's feeling because of an oversight. You know who should be included, but the does the wedding photographer?
• Review what types of wedding packages are available, and what works best for your budget. Find out how long it will take to have the wedding photos processed and when they will be ready. Do you want to view the proofs and select the wedding pictures, or will the wedding photographer select the photographs and present them in a completed photo album?
• Review the wedding photography contract before engaging the services of the wedding photographer. Don't be afraid to ask questions. A reputable photographer will be pleased to answer questions and discuss the contract.
• Think of the contract as a job description of services. In other words, what exactly is the wedding photographer responsible for? What will he or she be able to do for you?

Wedding Photographer Contract Checklist

• The name of the wedding photographer.
• The number and names of any photographer assistants.
• The name, in case of emergency, of a replacement wedding photographer.
• The date and time of the wedding and reception.
• The number of hours the wedding photographer will work.
• The overtime fee, if applicable.
• The number and locations of the sites to be photographed.
• The number of photographs and/or rolls of film.
• The number of proofs to be reviewed.
• The number of photo albums requested.
• The delivery date of proofs.
• The delivery date of the final product.
• The total cost, including an itemized statement.
• Information concerning a refund policy or a cancellation policy.

Capture the moments that will last a lifetime. After looking at the big picture, you can find out how to get what you want from your wedding photographer.

There are several resources to help you plan your wedding. An excellent reference source is Wedding and Party Network. The wedding and Party Network can help you find the Who, What, When, and Where you need to plan your wedding or party.

For more information concerning weddings and wedding photos check out FlowerShopNetwork article: Beautiful Wedding Flower Pictures

Take a look at wedding pictures submitted by Wedding and Party subscribers:
Wedding cake pictures
Wedding bouquet pictures
Pictures of wedding dresses
Wedding rings pictures