Finding Your Wedding Photographer Doesn't Have to be a Nightmare.

By now you have probably read 27 blog posts all trying to tell you how to plan your perfect wedding day. You've read everything from DIY decor to trendy cakes and

signature cocktails. One thing these bloggers don't seem to know about though, is professional photography. That is where I come in. I am an expert on the subject after all.

The first thing to remember when looking for your photographer is that these photos will be the only thing left to tell your story once the beautiful trendy cake has been eaten and your guests have all gone home. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right photographer for your wedding day.

Look at their work!!! When looking for your photographer, please look at their portfolio, blog and social media. If you don't like what you see then move on! If you do then inquire and ask to see a few full galleries. You simply cannot make your decision based on a few highlight-reel photos. If you can look at the full gallery of a few other couple's wedding day you can get a stronger idea of what to expect for your own wedding day.

these photos will be the only thing left to tell your story once the beautiful trendy cake has been eaten and your guests have all gone home

Make sure your collection comes with an album. Too often couples and families hire a professional photographer and then the only place you see the images is on FACEBOOK. So what does Granny do when she wants to see your photos, ask you for your iPhone? No! When making such a major investment into your future it only makes sense to have something tangible to show for it. And honestly, it's just the polite thing for any professional photographer to do for her clients.

he took only about 100 photos and delivered them on CD's which, by the way, are no longer accessible with modern computers

Don't skimp here... Let me tell you a little story... There once was a pretty little blonde who was head-over-heels in love and getting married on a shoestring budget. She hired the lowest bidder to photograph her beach wedding. He showed up late, with non-professional gear and wearing a white t-shirt. He took only about 100 photos and delivered them on CD's which, by the way, are no longer accessible with modern computers. The photos were dark, very low file size and not a one was very flattering. Well, the blonde hair is gone now and I can say that this girl has certainly learned her lesson. Uh, yeah, that was me! I had no clue! I had never hired a photographer before. I was still just a 22 year old bartender marrying the cute line-cook with long hair. How was I supposed to know? Now that my tears have all dried I am able to tell you this cautionary tale to help you avoid making the same mistake.

I realize this is a stressful time for you. This is your wedding day we're talking about, and you want it to be absolutely perfect. I promise you that hiring a really good photographer is one thing you will never regret. Let's talk more about this...