Every detail of a wedding is important, but none more so than the photographer. After the wedding is over, and the celebration has passed, photographs are the one tangible memory of that day. Choosing the right photographer to capture your wedding photography will immortalize all the special moments.

Wedding photography is as unique as each individual wedding. There are all types of photographers, from those who prefer to shoot in black and white to those who incorporate big scenics and work within the environment to more formal, posed photography. Take some time to look at the various types of wedding photography. Most photographers have websites with galleries of some of their photos. Once you've chosen a style you like, call and talk to the photographer.

You will be spending approximately eight hours of one of the most important days of your life with this person. It is crucial that your personalities mesh and that the photographer understands your wishes for your wedding day. Don't confuse friendship with professionalism. A professional photographer will ask for a shoot list and will be sure to get all the pictures you want.  Be sure they can do what they promise. Ask to talk to a few of their clients to find out about their experiences.

If the photographer is unfamiliar with the wedding venue , have them go with you to the site and walk through it, deciding where you want shots taken. Many wedding venues will have albums and galleries that can offer ideas for shooting at different times of day and different areas.

You will also want to create a timeline for your wedding photography. There are usually two separate times that photographs are taken – before the ceremony and after. Wedding photography before the ceremony generally includes shots of the bride alone and the bride with her bridesmaids. Likewise shots are taken of the groom alone and the groomsmen. This time can also be used to take pictures of the bride with her family and the groom with his family.

There may also be a ‘private reveal,' in which the bride is presented to the groom before the ceremony and pictures of the couple are taken. Pre-photos may take up to an hour before the ceremony. If you run out of time, you can take the remainder of the photos after the ceremony at a different site.

The second set of photographs usually takes place during the cocktail hour. Be sure to ask the venue to bring a plate of appetizers for the bridal party so they get a chance to eat. These pictures will include group shots of both families, pictures of the bride and groom. Afterwards, casual photos during the reception are taken and may include pictures of each table of guests, and pictures of relatives and friends.

Processing and color touching of photos can take up to four weeks, so be patient. Have realistic expectations of how long it will take to get proofs back, so you aren't feeling anxious and the photographer doesn't feel rushed. If every thing has been planned properly, your wedding photography should reflect the joy, beauty and celebration of the day.