The last grain of rice has been tossed. You and your groom are heading off for your honeymoon. Do you feel confident that you have a lifetime of sharing those beautiful memories through your wedding photographs? If you've taken care to choose a professional photographer whose work you have seen in samples or from the weddings of your friends, you can relax.

Proofs of the shots taken from those tense moments in the dressing rooms before the ceremony, through the beautiful and reverent ceremony, the comical moment when your flower girl stooped to pick up the piece of gum she dropped, your mother's brief tears of joy, and the joyous reception where friends came from far and near to wish you well, will be ready for you shortly after you return from your honeymoon.

As soon as you have set the date and place, you should begin your search for the professional who will photograph your wedding. First, check his credentials. Does this photographer have experience with weddings? Don't be afraid to ask. Also, a real professional will not be reluctant to show you samples of his photography. Remember that emotions are less stable during such an exciting event, so choose a photographer whose personality is pleasing to you. This is an important consideration, because in order to get the group shots you want, he is going to have to move people around. If he has an abrupt manner, feelings may be hurt, or tempers may flare during the photographic session.

Once you have chosen a photographer who takes beautiful pictures and has a compatible personality, get down to business. How much will it cost for the number and kinds of pictures you want? Discuss the photographer's various packages, options and extras. Will you be able to increase your order later or reorder if you decide on some pictures not included in the package? What will the cost be for these? If you have extra pictures taken, does the photographer charge by the shot or by the hour? You'll want to get something in writing so there will be no surprises later.

Also, remember your photographer is probably not a mind reader, tell him what shots you especially want him to capture. Listen to his suggestions about other shots and special effects. He's experienced or you wouldn't be hiring him, remember? He probably doesn't know your family either, so if a special relative is going to be there, or a friend has traveled from Germany to attend your wedding, it should be recorded in your wedding memories. Tell the photographer. If the church or other building you are using has any special rules, let the photographer know about them. Some ministers do not allow photographs to be taken during the actual ceremony. If this is the case, let him know.

When you know what to expect of the photographer and he knows what you are expecting from him and the business aspects have been worked out, you can relax. You'll have a lifetime to remember that special day and an album that can become a family heirloom.

c. 1997, Beverly C. Bishop

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