The first question many brides ask photographers is, “What do you charge?”

A better question might be, “What can you do for me?”

Price is important, but price isn’t everything. A photographer who charges $500 wouldn’t be a bargain if he only hung around for an hour and shot only a dozen pictures.

Start by finding a photographer whose style you like. The modern approach is wedding photojournalism, which means lots and lots of candid pictures of the little moments that are a rich part of every wedding. A good photojournalist will take all the usual posed family shots, but that’s just the beginning. He or she will capture the funny moments, the tender moments, the tense moments, the smiles and the tears.

At the other end of the spectrum is the photographer who poses everything. If that’s what you want, stay away from photojournalists. In between are a variety of styles, from soft-focus fantasies to fine art to … well … some very bad pictures.

If you like lots of candids, there are good photographers in our area. But beware: Anyone can call himself a photojournalist. Ask to see portfolios. Some traditional studio photographers can’t make the leap from carefully controlling everything to flexibly documenting a story that’s unfolding before them.

In a recent professional journal, a photographer suggested that the best way to shoot a reception is to set up a mini-studio in the corner, with a cloth backdrop and a couple of lights. Then, he said, bring every couple over to pose for a picture. That doesn’t sound like a wedding reception to me; it sounds like a senior prom.

Once you’ve settled on a style, find a photographer you like. He’ll be near you all day. If you cringe every time you see him coming, your pictures will suck. Is the photographer pleasant? Easy to talk to? Personable? Look for a photographer you’re comfortable with. Remember, you aren’t hiring someone to simply take pictures, but to tell the story of your special day.

Next, ask: What’s included in the price? How many photographs? How many hours of coverage? How much time do you take for the usual posed family pictures?

Do I get to keep the negatives or digital files? The federal Copyright Act protects photographers by giving the “author” of an image the exclusive right to reproduce it. This includes the right to control the making of copies. It is illegal to copy or reproduce these photographs elsewhere without the author’s permission. If the photographer waives that copyright by providing you the negatives or digital files, you’re receiving extra value.

Now you’re down to the fine-tuning. Here are some questions to ask:

• How many weddings have you photographed? (Do you want a beginner shooting your day?)
• Do you carry backup equipment? How much backup equipment?

• What happens if you get sick? Will you provide a substitute, or am I on my own?

• Will you provide me with references? (Also, you should ask around. Is the photographer you’re thinking of hiring known by the best florists, DJs, bridal shops, reception sites, videographers and rental stores?)
• Do you run the show or will you be unobtrusive? (One of my favorite compliments is, “We hardly knew you were there.”)
• What will you wear to my wedding? (I’ve heard of photographers showing up in cargo pants and T-shirts or polo shirts.)
• Are you a member of the Professional Photographers of America or a similar organization? (Membership in a professional association shows an extra level of commitment.)
• What other credentials can you show? (A photographer who has worked at a magazine or newspaper, or who has done other types of shooting, brings more to the table.)

Demand a detailed contract, not just a handshake.

Finally, ask if the photographer has any rules or restrictions. For example, some prohibit guests from taking pictures after the ceremony, or they prohibit disposable cameras on the tables at the reception. That’s ridiculous. It’s your wedding, not the photographer’s. If the photographer seems to be putting his wishes or needs ahead of yours, run.

Don’t take risks with your memories. There are no second chances. Your wedding photographs can be a joy to revisit throughout your life – but only if your photographer has the talent and skill to capture those defining moments.

Jan Thiessen is one of the area’s most popular wedding photographers.

(888) 447-6699
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www.photosbyjan.com