For most events in our lives, a cheap camera is sufficient to record what is important for posterity. But some things like weddings are, hopefully, once in a lifetime, and worth paying more to have it photographed right. So from the myriad of choices how should one go about selecting which photographer to hire? Here are seven principles that will aid in that choice.



1. Availability. A wealthy couple may want to hire the best New York photographer to capture their California wedding. But to most couples that isn't an option. They want someone close enough so that transportation is not an issue. Also, considering that most weddings are on Saturday, you will want to know if your chosen day is open for them.

2. Skill. Photographing a wedding is much more than aim and click. It involves good equipment and expert skill. Everything is digital these days. What is the pixel range they will use for the pictures? The more pixels, the larger the file size but the better the resolution. Then what is the company's reputation? What do others say about their skill in taking wedding pictures? Are samples available?

3. Personality. Imagine yourself working with them for several hours, planning your special day. Would they be good to work with? Do you think they would be pushy or would they try to work with your budget and wishes? Would they want to run the show or would they fit into your plans? Would they work well with any children in the wedding party?

4. Price. Of course, money must be a consideration. Weddings are expensive enough, the average U.S. wedding now at more than $20,000. You want your special day recorded but you don't want to go broke doing it. Are the options you want available with this photographer within your budget?

5. Service. How quickly are the pictures available? Some will even display the wedding pictures during the reception. That is a nice touch. How quickly can prints be made? How available will they be to others on the web or on CD, and how soon?

6. Options. You should be offered a wide variety of options from which to choose. Do you want rehearsal pictures and, if so, is the photographer available? How many pictures do they promise? Do they bring their own lighting or rely on natural lighting? What creative suggestions do they offer? Can family and friends print pictures that are posted on their website?

7. Integrity. Does the photographer deliver on the promises made? Is the photographer known for being on time and at the right place where they are expected? Are all the parts of the package you choose delivered as promised? Do they have other things planned that day or will they be there as long as you expect them to be?

A wedding is too important to rely on an amateur to do an adequate job. Consider these points as you plan your special day and, chances are, you won't be disappointed with the result.