Find a Pro
Right off the bat, it's important for you to know that a good photographer is usually worth every penny you end up paying him or her. A professional photographer can make you look like a model, or at least come very, very close to doing so. Since you're going to be looking at these photos for many years to come, you want them to look as flawless and flattering as possible.
E~Alert
While it may seem like a great way to save money, it's actually not a good idea to ask a friend or relative to act as chief photographer at your wedding. That's a lot of pressure to put on someone who was expecting to relax and enjoy himself throughout the day. You may also be very disappointed with the pictures, adding unnecessary strain to your relationship.
A skilled photographer sees things that other people don't. He knows what kind of lighting will work best with your skin tone and coloring. He can envision the backdrop of a group photo just by looking at a particular space. He observes you from all angles and decides which one is most flattering. This guy is an artist in the truest sense of the word — he's able to find beauty where you might think none exists. (So if you think you always look terrible in family pictures, blame the picture taker, not the image in the mirror!)
There's no magic involved in taking great pictures, only talent. What makes the difference between good pictures and bad ones? Lighting, setting, composition, and even the type of film or camera the photographer uses. You'll read more about these topics throughout the chapter. Just know for now that strapping a very expensive camera around someone's neck doesn't necessarily make him a professional in the truest sense of the word. He's also got to have the ability to see you in the best light, even if you're currently standing in the worst light.
