Beware the Amateur

Too many amateurs in the business have spoiled its reputation. Try to find the perfect blend of enthusiasm and experience, both great assets for a professional in the wedding business. TIP - Beware! Some photographers do not offer all the proofs. Ask if you get to keep them.

TIP - Trust your intuition. If you don't feel relaxed with the photographer BEFORE the wedding day, then your discomfort will be magnified intensely. Be aware of annoying personality traits that will only become more irritating at show-time.

TIP - If you do not see the style of photos you desire on the photographer's website or blog, they may not have experience with that style of wedding photography. Insist on a Copyright Release if you Purchase a Package That Includes the Negatives or a Digital CD

TIP - Legally, even if you have paid top dollar for your wedding images, you cannot simply take your negatives or CD to be legally printed, because of a copyright law that exists to protect the interest of the photographer.

However, you may negotiate this with the photographer in advance. Have him sign over a copyright release that will permit you to make as many reproductions as you want. This may cost extra, although many emerging photographers are willing to give them to you. Most photo labs will not print professional images without a copyright release or licensing agreement.