Choosing a photographer to capture your wedding is an important step. You may be overwhelmed with choices, prices and options. Hiring the right photographer doesn't have to be a headache. By following the seven simple steps below, you'll be on the right track to gorgeous memories captured by the perfect photographer.

1) Get to Know Your Photographer: You'll want to set up a date to interview the photographer, and see his/her portfolio. In some large companies, the photographer you talk to might not be the one they send out for our event. Make sure you interview that photographer and see his/her portfolio to get a sense of their style. Ask for references, and check up on them, if possible.

2) Experience Level: Is this a job, or a hobby? Do they frequently photograph weddings? Do they use professional-grade equipment, and do they have back-up equipment available, just in case? Have they photographed weddings in your chosen location before? Knowing these answers will insure you get the best photographer available.

3) View Their Portfolio: Photography is an art, so it's understandable that you may or may not like the style the photographer used to capture an event. You'll want to view different sets of photos to ensure the style is perfect for you. If you want color photos, black and whites or a mixture, make sure you see prints in that style.

4) Personality's a Plus: Your wedding photographer will be spending a lot of time with you on you on the most important day of your life. It's crucial that his or her personality blends in, making it a pleasure to have him/her at your side. You'll also want to make sure he/she will dress the part and look professional while taking those important photos.

5) Money Matters: Though you don't want to skimp on wedding photos, it is important to make sure this particular photographer isn't going to break your budget. Find out ahead of time about how much it will cost to have him/her photograph your wedding.

* You'll want to know how much time you'll be allotted, and how many rolls of film they'll take during that time.

* Most photographers offer packages that specify a certain amount of pictures for a set fee.

* Sometimes packages can be customized to meet your needs.

* You'll also want to ask about the cost of albums, reprints and other fees you might encounter. Often consumers get caught out by photographers who ?low ball? their price for the day and catch you out with high costs of the reprints and albums which the photographer has exclusive rights to.

6) Deposits and Cancellations: While we're on the subject of price, it's important to know how much of a deposit is required to hold your date. You'll want to know if payments are accepted, and what the cancellation policies are. The last thing you want is to end up at the altar without a photographer to capture the moment.

7) Get It In Writing!: You'll want a contract to protect you in case you're unhappy with the services of your photographer. If you end up going to court to settle matters, the judge will only be concerned with what is written in the contract. Therefore, it's very important to make sure you get all of the details in writing. The contact should include:

* Expected services, fees, cancellation policy, fee schedule and the details of your photo packages written in detail.

* You'll also want their name and address, as well as your name and address on the contract.

* Make sure you both sign and date the contract, and that you get a copy of both sides.

Now you're prepared for your photographer search. Good luck, and may your photographs turn out to be everything you want them to be!