A photographer is a significant spectator at any wedding celebration - the one person who understands the importance of capturing those special moments.

Choosing a professional photographer is essential. The following guidelines will ensure that you pick yours with confidence.

The uncle no-no
Be especially wary of a friend or an `uncle with a good camera` who offers to take your wedding photographs. It may seem like a great cost saver, but rarely, if ever, will they be able to produce the photographs you truly want. Rather tell them politely that you`d prefer them to be a guest at your wedding so they can really enjoy themselves. To guarantee good results, hire a professional who is experienced at wedding photography.

Walk the talk
The best way to find someone is through `word-of-mouth` - speak to recently married friends and relatives. Another way is to contact wedding venues or wedding consultants as they deal with photographers on a regular basis and will know who to recommend. Interview as many prospective people as time and energy permit before you make a final choice.

The write stuff
Book your photographer at least three months before the wedding and confirm the date and time in writing. Also, make sure that the photographer has a back-up should he become sick or have an accident. A reminder phone call the day before is a good idea.

Look-see
Make an appointment with the prospective person so that you can review his portfolio. (Always ask to see a full wedding, not just pictures from selected weddings.) It is also a good idea for you to arrange for the photographer to `scout` the venue and church you will be using before the wedding, especially if he has never been to either of the two before.

Just bill me
Find out what the photographer charges for weddings and what this package includes. Questions to ask include things such as, is the film and processing included in the fee, do they charge for travel, is a wedding album included and are there any other expenses you need to know about? Find out how many hours they will be present and how much they charge thereafter. Once again, confirm everything in writing. Remember: Never choose a photographer on price alone. It is better to have 20 great shots than 200 shocking ones!

The specifics
Provide a detailed list of formal and candid shots you would like taken. Also, let the photographer know if you want your shots to be in colour, black and white, or both.

Having it all
Find out if your chosen photographer has at least two cameras, together with two off-camera flashes and a back-up of all major pieces of equipment.

Helping hands
Does the photographer bring along an assistant? And, don`t forget to arrange catering for them.

The perfect process
Confirm that he will use professional film as well as have the prints processed in a professional laboratory.

Photography by André Eaton