Planning a wedding is an exciting yet overwhelming adventure. You want your wedding to be perfect, including the photos that you have to record your special day. However, finding the photographer that's right for you can be overwhelming sometimes. When you've never hired a photographer before, you might not know what to look for. Here's a look at some things you should think about when you're looking for a wedding photographer.

Consider The Style You Want

You won't be able to choose a photographer until you know what style of wedding photos you want. Photographers all have different styles, with some specializing in candid shots, others specializing in portrait photography, and others produce more editorial or even classic photos.

Ideally, you will want a photographer who can balance several different styles of photography. For example, find a photographer who can take portrait-style photos as well as candids to help document the entire day in a lighthearted manner, or find a journalistic photographer who can document your wedding and tell the story clearly in your pictures.

Know What Is Included

Every wedding photographer has different packages that they offer for clients. When you decide on a photographer and start reviewing those packages, make sure that you clearly understand each one and the options.

You need to know exactly what is included in the package, including how many hours of photography are included, how many venues the photographer is willing to visit, and how many photos you will receive afterward. 

If it's important to you that your preparation, ceremony, and reception are all documented, make sure that multiple venues and enough hours are included in the package that you choose. If all you want is an album of the best pictures, select your package accordingly. However, if you want copies of all of the photos from the entire day, ask about the options for that as well.

Understand Your Rights And Responsibilities

You may have some responsibilities as far as the wedding photographer is concerned. For example, you may need to plan for a meal for the photographer at your reception. Some photographers specifically exclude meals in their contracts, while others expect that to be provided. Clarify the expectation so that you can be sure that you meet those needs.

Additionally, you should clarify your rights under the terms of the contract. Does your photographer retain all rights to your photos, or will you have a signed release that allows you to obtain reprints or publish your photos online, with or without a watermark? Ensure that you know exactly what you are legally allowed to do with the photos before you sign the contract.