By Michelle James

One of the most important decisions any bride makes is choosing her photographer. In many cases brides do not realize what a crucial part of the wedding the photographer is and will often “budget shop”.
Photography is how your dream and the beginning of your life with your new husband are captured to outlast time.
“Next to the wedding dress, photography is the most important,” said Cindy Moore, a bride that was married just last year. “ it is the only thing you have after the party.”
There are many important factors when choosing a photographer including photo style, delivery, contracts and personality. This is a process that should begin soon after you have a date set.
When a bride begins her quest for a photographer a good place to start is with family and friends. These resources will be delighted to share a phone number of a positive experience, and it is suggested that brides compile a list of the photographers and research their websites. This is the time when a bride who does not know her photo style preferences will begin to decide on the style she would like her wedding captured in. Photo styles differ and a bride must learn these styles and her preferences. Photo styles range from posed and formal, relaxed, photojournalistic, creative, artistic, candid and traditional.
After viewing websites it is important to schedule an interview with the photographers you related to or were fond of their photos.
Once you have chosen the photographer be sure to determine contracts, cost and the delivery of your photos. With the birth of the digital age most brides no longer have to wait months for their proofs. You may want to ensure you can purchase a cd or negatives of all photos taken at the wedding. Brides also want to be sure that friends and families can purchase photos and that the process will be relatively easy. If the photographer offers website ordering these prints can be ordered directly form the photographer relieving the bride of this responsibility.
The most important thing to remember about choosing a photographer is that this is the most important day of your life and it is their responsibility to capture the moments that will outlast time in just the style you request.