When selecting a wedding photographer, style, comfort and experience should guide your choice.

Style can range from studio — exclusively posed and lit — to photojournalistic, or strictly candid shots taken in available light or with camera flash. Style arises from how the photographer sees the events as they unfold at the wedding and how s/he makes artistic and technical decisions in capturing both formal portraits and fleeting moments. Viewing website portfolios or printed brochures is just the first stage in learning about a photographer's style. The next step is seeing how the photos are edited into a finished album or video montage. The photographer is gathering resources to create a meaningful narrative, so dcide if his or her vision appeals to you.

Comfort is a matter of personality — both yours and the photographer's. Of all the vendors involved in your wedding, you will probably be spending the most time on your special day with your photographer, so it is importatn to develop a good rapport, beginning with a personal interview. Some photographers are happy to include a get-acquainted bonus in the form of an engagement portrait session.

Experience matters. Even veteran photojournalists discover that the wedding is one of the most demanding assignments they'll ever take on. Equipment, logistics and crowds have to be managed while shooting the swirl of events. An experienced photographer is prepared for the rhythms of the day as you go from last-minute touchups to the ceremony to the reception. She can provide guidance in contracting for the appropriate number of hours and then making best use of the time.

Digital vs. film? Choice of medium should be transparent — in other words, it shouldn't matter, but as digital cameras approach the resolution of film the advantages of digital become clear. Digital cameras can accomodate quick changes in lighting situations and allow for on-the-fly previewing and color correction. FIles can be printed in color, black-and-whie or romantic sepia tones. Proofs can be shared online with friends and family wherever they are.

"It has been several years since our wedding and I still look at my album often. Julia really listened to us." — Antonella Muñiz

Look for a photographer who is committed to preserving memories for a lifetime and to bringing out the best in you.