Your wedding will only last one day, but your wedding albums will last a lifetime.  This makes it very important to hire a great photographer.  However, hiring a great wedding photographer isn’t the only trick, you also need to know how to best use your photographer to capture your special day.

I remember that working with the photographer was one of the most difficult aspects of my wedding.  Each photographer has a different style and skill level.  I knew what pictures I wanted in my wedding albums but I wasn’t always sure how to communicate my needs.  Luckily, I learned a few strategies along the way that I will pass on to you today.

Tip 1: Work to Create a Consistent Feel in Your Wedding Albums

I wanted my wedding albums to truly capture the feel of my wedding.  I included some of my wedding invitations, pressed flowers from the wedding ceremony and more.  One thing that I wished I had done was to communicate with my photographer the style that I was trying to achieve.  This would have given my wedding albums a more cohesive feel.

Tip 2:  Look at Portfolios Before Making a Final Selection

Look at your prospective photographers portfolio to get a good idea of their style and skills.  Look a variety of pictures including the bridal garter toss, the actual ceremony and maybe even a picture of the ring bearer.  Ask yourself, “Do I want my wedding pictures to look like this?”

Tip 3: Make a List

Every bride has a few pictures that she really wants to see.  Make a list of important events, people and things that you want to have photographed.  If you want a picture of your homemade wedding favor, be sure to ask.  This will make sure that your photographer doesn’t miss anything.  Of course, remember that your photographer will have some great ideas that you haven’t considered so leave room for their creativity as well.

Tip 4: Openly Communicate

You don’t want to run into any unpleasant financial surprises as you plan your wedding.  Make sure you and your photographer clearly discuss cost, services, final products expected and more.  It is a good idea to get everything and to safely store the contract in your wedding organizer.  Clear communication will help you and your photographer avoid conflict when it comes time to settle up.

I wish that I had these tips when I was planning my wedding.  It would have made communicating with my photographer so much easier.