1: When you contact us, be sure you can provide us with some basic information about your event. In particular:

2: Have an idea of your budget and what you want produced for you in the end. Do you want prints? Framed pictures? Albums? The sky is the limit with how your images can be used. Ask friends or coworkers who recently married what they purchased. It will give you a clearer idea of what's out there, and you'll get a sense of what suits your tastes.

3: It helps to discuss copyright policies ahead of time. We give our clients permission to print the pictures for their own private use as well as post them on their personal websites; however, we legally hold all copyrights to the images.

4: We advise you read the contract from start to finish before signing! Ask questions about anything you don't understand.

5: It helps to select someone to act as coordinator for formal pictures. Essentially, this person would assist in rounding up all of the people you want in the portraits. It's also helpful to have this person present while the portraits are being taken if there are young children, as a familiar face is often comforting.

6: It helps if you provide a list of pictures you want taken. We provide our clients with a stock list of photos, and ask them to select those they want and to add to the list. FYI, the coordinator (#5) will be a help to the photographer in identifying individuals on the list.

7: Ask about photographic restrictions your ceremony, reception, and/or portrait site may impose. For example, some houses of worship prohibit flash photography. It's important we know what can and cannot be done ahead of time so we can plan accordingly. It also helps prevent some socially awkward moments.

8: For formal portraits, items like sunglasses or large pieces of shiny jewelry should be removed. Gentlemen should button their jackets, and ties should be centered. Ladies shouldn't hold clutches. We will be responsible for posing everyone, so be sure to follow our directions and you'll get some great shots.

9: During any formal portrait shoot, please ask your guests to refrain from taking pictures. Some photographic equipment might interfere with the operation of ours. We also will not compete for your time and attention.

10: Lastly, remember to SMILE!!! It's your big day, so show off those pearly whites...you'll be glad you did!