How To Find A Wedding Photographer

People always ask me how to find a great photographer to shoot their wedding. Here's where I'd look:

• Referrals
• Wedding websites with directories
• Bridal magazines
• Event planners /caterers

Referrals: Ask some of your married friends about the photographer they used for their wedding. Look at their photographs (hopefully they have a website, too!) and if you like them, contact that photographer. If they tell you that they're booked, ask them if they can recommend anyone else. Most photographers know a lot of other great photographs that they've worked with before, trained, or just admire.

Websites: Do a web search. Use the keywords " wedding" "photographers" "your state." If you want a photojournalist, also use the keyword "wedding photojournalists." There are also photosocieties that have websites like AFWPI or WPPI.

Bridal magazines: Check the local ads in them to find a photographer.

Event planners/caterers: A lot of wedding planners like to work with selected photographers because they know the venues, they work well with these photographers, they know their style and work ethics. They know there won't be any problems so if you're using a wedding planner, take their recommendation seriously. Also, the banquet manager at your venue might have a few suggestions.