You've found the perfect photographer for your wedding. You love him. You can't wait to spend your wedding day with him. You may even try to set him up with one of your single bridesmaids once the festivities are over. He's that terrific.

Here are the next steps:

Make It Official: As soon as you've made your choice, confirm the date and put down a deposit. Great photographers and videographers book up early (sometimes a year or more in advance), so don't delay.

Select Your Package: The word "package" is one you'll hear everywhere when you're discussing your wedding photography. Simply stated, it's the collection of prints and albums you decide to order. Most photographers offer several packages. Find out exactly what yours includes, so you aren't shocked by lots of little extra charges after the wedding day.

Engagement Portrait: Special engagement sittings are a fabulous way to get to know your photographer before the big day. Schedule your sitting six months before the wedding, and you'll have great pictures for your showers, rehearsal dinner, save-the-date cards and more. While you're at it, check with your local paper to find out if they have special requirements for the photo you send for your newspaper announcement. Many papers want only black-and-white prints, and require the picture and all relevant information three months in advance.

Come Up With A Schedule: We can't stress this enough: HAVE THE PHOTOGRAPHER TAKE AS MANY PICTURES AS HE CAN BEFORE THE WEDDING. If you don't want to see the groom before the ceremony, fine. Just be sure you do take all your pre-wedding family and attendant shots. If you leave everything until after the cocktail hour, your guests may have to wait too long, or you may have to rush too much. Additionally, you'll want to set arrival and departure times. Don't forget, if you want your photographer there for those great behind-the-scenes shots of dressing, makeup and hair, say so now!

Create Your Shot List: Give your photographer a printable shot list well in advance of the wedding. Be sure to include a seating chart and assign a friend to point out important family members on both sides of the family.

Bridal Portrait: If you plan to have a special photograph taken in your wedding dress before the wedding day, do so as soon as your fitted gown arrives. Bridal portraits are particularly popular with Latina brides and those who will wear special cultural costumes on their wedding day. And don't be afraid to get your groom into the act. Lots of couples have a portrait taken in gown and tux at a scenic outdoor spot.

Get Everything In Writing! Make sure all the points that you've discussed are included in a comprehensive vendor contract, including the fee schedule, photography package selected, arrival and departure time, agreed upon overtime fee and copies of your shot lists.

Confirm Your Wedding Schedule With Your Photographer!

HOT TIP
If you schedule your engagement portrait at the same time you book your photographer, you may be able to have the sitting included in your photography package.

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