Photography is probably one of the most vital aspects of your wedding day. The photographer you choose will be capturing the most memorable moments of your special day, moments that you will look back on and keep for a lifetime!

I have been deliberating on a photographer for many weeks now, and have finally taken the plunge and booked one in. Many a nights have been spent looking a bridal magazines and websites comparing packages and prices.

The most important thing I had to keep in mind was our budget. I am going to be honest, photography is not cheap. But then again what price do you put on your memories?Unfortunately we were unable to spend any more than $2000 on photography. So I guess the challenge was set! I needed to find the best photographer I could, for under $2K.......here are some tips to keep in mind when searching for that perfect photographer :

• Who will be taking the photos? At all costs try to meet the photographer before the day. You need to make sure you feel comfortable.
• What does the package include? Ensure you know what you get for your money, ask to see examples of any wedding albums/coffee table books they have produced.
• Do we have rights to our images? This is something that not a lot of photographers allow. Do I get the digital negatives of all photos?? This should be on a DVD and you shouldn't have to keep purchasing photos off the photographer. This means you can take the photos to get printed elsewhere.
• Does the package include retouching? If the bride comes out in a nerve rash....will the photographer make it go AWAY???
• How many pictures do you take? This is going to vary for every couple, it all depends on factors like location, time of day ect. It is a good idea to at least know the minimum.
• How experienced are you at wedding photography? This one is pretty self explanatory.....
• What is your cancellation policy, and what happens if you cannot attend? Look into this closely, don't assume you will get your money back. Discuss a contingency plan just in case your photographer cannot make it due to an emergency!

The good news is...I found that perfect photographer for $1495. Why it is so much cheaper compared to other photographers? Because they run a photographic shop, they print all of the photos and create all of the albums and canvas's in store, not having the need to outsource to another company! So I guess it can be done....without compramising the quality of the wedding photos!