Wedding Photographers
I often get asked what people should look for when choosing a wedding photographer. I mean it's your big day and a LOT is going to happen - you definitely don't want someone who will be another distraction or stress on what should be a beautiful and special day. On the contrary, I find that good wedding photographers, beyond simply clicking a button, should be able to help direct and guide the festivities along, and work with the other relevant parties to help throw your big party.
That being said, there are some definite things to consider when choosing a wedding photographer. The biggest one is picture style. Different photographers choose to take pictures in different styles based on their previous training, their mentorship as well as personal preferences.
Traditional style focuses more on "getting all the shots" and to make sure that all the important events are covered. It involves more posing of the bride, groom and wedding party and more classic shots such as wedding portraits, families and other important moments of your wedding.
Photojournalistic style of wedding photography usually is more candid and involves less posing but more of the photographer following the wedding party discretely to capture all the important moments from a discrete manner. This leads to pictures (usually) that are less formal but can be more artistic and perhaps less of what you may see in your friend's galleries.
Many wedding photographers nowadays (myself included) are somewhat of a hybrid between the two styles - traditional shots for the portraits or for certain moments to ensure that the main shots are captured, but photojournalistic shots to capture the rest of the day and to showcase their unique style. Ultimately it is up to you to look carefully at a photographer's portfolio and to choose someone who's style appeals to you and fits within your budget.
Happy shopping!