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Meet with as many photographers as possible - make mental notes about how comfortable you were (or weren't) with each. Remember, your photographer will be with you during your ENTIRE wedding - it's important to like him or her!
When you meet with the photographers, be sure to look at their portfolios. Ask if you can see pictures from a complete wedding in addition to selections from various weddings.
Make sure the photographer matches your style. Do you prefer more candid shots? Black and whites? Ask the photographer about his/her preferred style and look at samples. Ask if there's additional cost for black and whites.
Get price lists and be sure to verify whether or not this price list is the one that will apply to YOUR wedding! It's good to book as early as possible, but if you are 6 to 12 months out from your wedding, the photographer may raise his/her rates between the time you book and the day of your wedding.
Before signing the contract, be sure that ALL costs are detailed in writing. Don't sign a contract with an open ended price. Make sure that prices for reprints are included, as well as every aspect of the agreement.
In addition to costs and the package selection, the contract should include things like: date, arrival time, length of shooting time, fees and overtime charges, a list of all locations where photos will be taken and when.
Other things to consider:
Ask your photographer if he/she works with an assistant weddings. Many work alone, but if you are having a large wedding with blended families it might be a good idea to hire a photographer with an assistant to keep track of it all!
Ask for recommendations from friends and coworkers. Ask if you can see pictures from their wedding!
Be sure the photographer you select "specializes" in weddings or has several in his or her portfolio.
Make a list for your photographer of all the *must have* and *nice to have* photographs. Be sure you get input from your parents and from your fiancée's parents too!
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