Every bit as important as the church, the hall, the dresses and the rings, is the right photographer for your wedding day.
Memories will be made that you will want preserved, and choosing your photographer can bring those memories to life for years to come.
When choosing the person to takes your wedding photos, there are some key elements to consider, said Jana Drayton of Linda & Jana Drayton Photography.
“Definitely meet with the photographer and make sure that what they produce as far as photographs is exactly what the bride and groom are looking for in their own photographs,” Drayton recommends. Equally important, she added, “Make sure your personalities mesh. If you don’t get along, it won’t work.”
Drayton suggests taking a close look at the photographer’s work, and ask to see any albums they have on hand. The type of camera they use is important, as well. Some cameras do not have the capability of taking photos that can also produce a quality enlargement.
The style of photos desired is also a big consideration, said Drayton, as the bride and groom may want portrait type photos, or photojournalist-type photos, which are more candid rather than posed. Most brides prefer the latter, she said, and many want to have both. The Drayton studio has two photographers to cover weddings so that one can shoot a posed photo in a particular setting, while the other is at the same setting taking candid shots.
After choosing the photographer you are most comfortable with, book the date well in advance. Drayton recommends booking one year in advance, as certain dates are more popular than others and book up quickly.
Last, but most certainly not least, is budget. Know how much you want to spend on the photographer. The photographer will provide a proof book with all of the photos taken, and different package prices are typically available based number of photos desired. It is then up to the happy couple to decide which – and how many – of those memorable photos they would like to have in their wedding album.

Be sure to tell your photographer:

• Directions to the church and reception
• Rules of the church
• The list of people important to your day who aren’t standard
• Schedule of events happening at the wedding
• How long you’ll be gone on your honeymoon and when you can be in touch with them

See related article: "Click with a Photographer"