Choosing a Creative Wedding Photographer

Choosing a creative wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions you'll make when planning your wedding. It's easy to work out what you don't want. You don't want someone who will turn up in jeans, boss you around, or forget to load the camera with film. But figuring out what you do want is a little harder. That's where we can help.

First things first: discuss your requirements with your partner. Chances are, your wedding photographer will get on your nerves after a couple of hours of posing – you'll want someone you both get along with. Do you want someone whose creative photography will make your album truly unique? Do you prefer classic, black-and-white photography or imaginative, witty photographs? Are you working to a tight budget? With all this in mind, follow our 4-step guide to choosing a creative wedding photographer. Good luck!

1. Choosing the Style of Photography

There are two different types of photography that may take place at your wedding. Different photographers specialise in one or the other, and some offer both:

• Portrait photography

This includes the traditional shots of friends and family, as well as a selection of intimate bride-and-groom portraits. A good wedding photographer will ensure that everyone has been included in at least one shot. He or she will also take the couple somewhere scenic for extra photographs. Creative portrait photography is a real skill – it takes wit and imagination to capture a couple in a personal way.

• Reportage photography

This is usually taken from the sidelines, with an informal feel. It isn't framed or set-up. Many wedding photographers now offer to come to the bride's home before the wedding, to capture the preparation and excitement. Sometimes photographers will bring along an apprentice to take pictures in the background: shots like the groom helping the bride over a puddle, or the bridesmaids gossiping in a corner.

2. Find a Creative Wedding Photographer in your Area

Preserving your wedding memories is a huge responsibility, so picking a photographer is a task that deserves your time and attention. Spend time browsing sites, checking prices and arranging visits. Your patience will pay off: a talented and creative wedding photographer will provide you with photographs that you and your family will treasure for years to come.

Use our directory to locate qualified photographers in your area, but don't be hasty: browse their sites and make a shortlist. Don't forget to use our checklist (below) when you meet potential photographers.

3. Visit some Creative Wedding Photographers

When the photographer shows you some sample albums, look for the following:

• Creative arrangements and unusual angles
• Happy expressions on the guests' faces
• Photographs that capture the wedding's mood
• Intimate shots of the couple
• Good use of scenery
• Natural smiles
• Photographs from one single wedding, to demonstrate the range of his/her abilities

Then ASK your photographer these questions:

• What album options do you offer?
• How many photographs will you take?
• Do you offer a mixture of colour and black-and-white?
• Will you be personally taking the photographs? If not, who will?
• Do you attend in appropriate attire?
• Will the final photographs be available online for ordering?
• What prices do you charge for re-prints?
• Where will the photographs be stored?
• Are the photographs supplied on CD or DVD?

4. Choosing your Wedding Album

There are two options for your wedding album. You can choose to have a number of prints of your choice from the complete set, and (usually) stick them into an album yourself. (Wonky and home-made, but personal!) Or you can choose to have a ‘storybook' printed up. These come in a range of sizes and styles, depending on your photographer. The storybook is an expensive option, but it's a far more glamorous way to display your wedding photos and will probably be kept on your coffee table for years to come.