Choosing your wedding photographer It may not be as glamorous as when you are looking for that perfect dress and flowers but shopping for your wedding photographer should be given as much, if not more attention.  Your wedding album should reflect everthing about your wedding, your dress, the flowers, your cake, food, rings, family and friends.  Your wedding album will be your keepskae for the rest of your life. Here are some suggestions: Start early The more studios you visit, the more informed you will become.  Recommendations from friends are excellent.  Wedding professionals are also familiar with many different studios' work.  Let them give you their input also. Plan to see several photographers that are in your budget Why not even visit a couple of photographers that are above your budget!?  You may be surprised at the difference until you see it for yourself. Look at the groups, families, bridal party and other alter shots Check and see the expressions on groups in a photographer's portfolio.  Be sure to see a complete wedding from start to finish.  Many photographers will show just a couple of photos from different weddings.  Your wedding is different; just the way you have imagined it.  Be sure to have it captured. Look out for offers of free prints, special discounts and photographers that give you everything It is far better to have your wedding memories created in a wedding album that will last a lifetime. Look for top quality materials You may pay a small amount more for the best quality album, however it will look better and last much longer.  Remember it is an investment.  How many times have you taken a look at your parents' wedding album.  You will want yours to be in at least the same condition,  if not better, as your children admire their parents when they were first married. Once you have selected your wedding photographer, remember he needs your assistance Be sure to give them the time that is needed and cooperate to the fullest.  Planning ahead and being on time makes the day so much more stress free. Set high standards and do not settle for less Looking for that special wedding photographer can be an exhausting job.  Avoid a disappointment of so many who wish they had spent the time and a little more money to assure their mements are captured professionally in the wedding album. When should I book my Photographer? Much depends on your date.  Spring, summer and fall dates are often booked a year in advance.  Winter and very early Spring dates should be booked 4 - 6 months in advance.  Remember, Saturdays are the most popular day and popular studios are booked first. Have a list of questions to go over with your photographer Include special request of individual groups to be photographed.  Be sure to give it to your photographer a week before your wedding.  If you have an extended listing, have a special friend available to assist the photographer with getting the people together.  Remember, the photographer does not know everyone you may desire in a photograph. Prepare a list of everything you need to take to the church ahead of time It sounds funny, but it should include your dress, slip, shoes, veil, and undergarments, rings, marriage license, programs and guest book.