After years of dreaming, months of planning, and a spectacular day of being a bride (or groom), what you have to show for it are photographs.

So, how important are your wedding photos? How do you decide, with all the photographers out there and usually friends or family members who take pictures, who your photographer will be?

As a former bride and a wedding photographer, I would like to offer a little advice. I would also love to hear your responses.

I think it comes down these two important factors:

1) personality...is the photographer someone you will enjoy having with you and your closest friends and family for the entire day?

2)style of photography...do you like candid shots? do you want your posed photos inside or outside? are you wanting to be told exactly how to stand, or do you want to just be natural and close with your wife/husband?

Also, a few things to ask or look for when you meet with a photographer:
1) Ask to see one whole wedding, or at least several shots from the same wedding. This will show you a full day's coverage.

2) Ask to see the photographer's favorite shots. Seeing favorites can tell you a lot about her/his personality and what they will be looking for during your wedding day.

3) Ask the photographer why they do or do not give the negatives or files (digital). There are really great reasons for each option...and it's not just to make more money.

Feel free to ask more questions...about wedding photography, vendors, locations, and other fun suggestions. I love talking weddings...it's what I do!