Best to know
Points to clarify on your visit to the photographer...

How many weddings have they done?
It's not necessarily a bad thing if they've come to this area recently, as along as you are happy with their creativity and general expertise. Ask to see complete wedding albums - it's important to see the full scope of their work, not just the best bits.

How long do you want their services for?
Would you be happy for them to start at the ceremony venue and stop before the meal, or would you prefer a record of the entire day, from getting ready to the last dance?

How many pictures do you want?
There may be special shots you want taken, such as groups of friends or relatives - make sure the photographer is briefed thoroughly because some things are bound to slip your mind on the day.

Does the photographer know the venue?
If your photographer is unfamiliar with the reception venue, ask whether he or she will consider meeting there in advance to identify good backdrops and settings as well as potential lighting problems.

What will it cost?
Many photographers market wedding 'packages', usually taken to cover the cost of the professional's services, films, albums and some enlargements. Some photographers quote on the basis of an hourly rate while others prefer a flat rate for an established period of the day. Find out what charges are included in the basic quote and what is additional - such as photographer's travel and use of assistants - and establish overall payment terms: usually a deposit and agreed schedule. Costs between photographers vary widely but as a rough guide, a basic package from an established professional will be upwards of £700.

What about extra prints?
Establish the cost of re-prints - most photographers retain negatives, ensuring future orders are placed with them, and it's often cheaper to order prints for relatives with the original order rather than placing separate ones months down the line.

BEST ADVICE
Schedule enough time for the photographer to do the job - too tight a schedule may restrict their creativity. Ask the best man or an usher to help round up the guests. Avoid directing the photographer yourself. You have employed this person for their creativity. Find out if flash photography is permitted in the church.