Choosing a wedding photographer is difficult under normal circumstances, but when you throw digital wedding photography into the mix, the choice of which type of photography is best can become even harder. There is a division among professional wedding photographers. Some think that traditional film photography has more warmth, while those that use digital photography feel it is as versatile as film. With the popularity of digital cameras, it's only natural that a couple would think that the most recent technology would make for the best pictures. This might not always be the case. So, how do you choose?

Only recently has digital photography begun to gain some recognition. Early digital cameras had many limitations that left the photos looking mechanical and cold. Today's cameras have come a long way to correct these flaws and offer professional wedding photographers yet another tool to work with. Digital wedding photography is well on its way to coming into its own.

For many situations, digital cameras offer a number of significant advantages. A digital camera provides immediate feedback to the photographer. This enables him or her to risk tricky or difficult shots, knowing that if anything needs to be corrected it can be. This is especially important for photojournalistic wedding photography, in which many of the shots will be taken in ambient light conditions. A related benefit is the ability to take a greater number of shots. The photographer can shoot as many pictures as time and memory card will allow, without worrying about the cost of film.

Another major advantage of digital wedding photography is that all of the settings are internal. Rather than having to interrupt the proceedings to change film speeds or simply change out a film roll, the photographer can make changes quickly and easily.

Most couples today want their photos in a digital format as well as an album. While film photos can be scanned, moving digital photos around electronically is less labor intensive and therefore less expensive. In addition, digital photos can be easily manipulated if the couple wants copies of certain photos in black and white or sepia tones, for example.

The major drawback to digital wedding photography at this time is that many wedding photographers are not yet completely familiar with the new style. Digital photography is in many ways a completely different animal than film photography, and some very talented professional wedding photographers are simply not at their best with digital photography. When interviewing possible digital wedding photographers, be sure that you ask how long the photographer has been using this style. Also ask to see copies of both his film work and his digital work for comparison purposes.

Digital wedding photography is here to stay. As time goes on, advances made with the technology will only serve to improve the quality of the photos. Already, many digital cameras have the ability to use different types of lenses and other accessories that previously were only available for traditional 35mm cameras. The choice you make will largely depend on your personal style and the look you are trying to create for your wedding album. Shop around, and compare photo albums from as many different photographers as you can find. Professional wedding photographers can have the best equipment in the world, but that still will not make up for a lack of knowledge. Whether it's digital or film, the photographer has to have the experience and skill to make your pictures shine. If you like a specific photographer's work, that photographer is the one for you.