Here are a few tips from wedding channel one of the most popular wedding magazine to guide you through your interviews with photographers and videographers 1. Interview at least three vendors in your price range and one that is slightly out of your budget. Get an idea of what a few extra dollars will buy. 2. Get familiar with the idea of a photography or video package. Typically, studios offer several options for shooting weddings -- you choose the one that best suits your needs. For one price, a photo package typically includes the number of various-sized prints in different styles you plan to order, the number of hours that the photographer will be at your wedding, and an idea of how many pictures the photographer will shoot. Additionally, some packages include your proof book, an engagement portrait, a wedding album and parents' albums. Video packages may include an unedited tape, an edited master, music, titles, special effects, packaging and several copies for family and friends. Once you pinpoint the package that best suits your budget, check out the next plan up. If the issue is bang for your buck (a.k.a. value), it's a good idea to compare what you get for what you spend. 3. Find out about the fee schedule. How much does your photographer require for a deposit? If payments are broken up into installments, when will the dollars be due? 4. Do your homework. Ask how long your photographer and videographer have been in business. Do they have a business license? How many weddings have they shot? How long does it take to get your images back? Do they offer online photo showcasing? And perhaps the most important question you should ask: Can you speak with former customers? If your photographer can't provide references (with corresponding pictures), or isn't a pre-qualified Pictage photographer, take a pass. 5. Get the details. How many cameras will they bring? What kind of film do they use? If you're hiring a videographer, ask what kinds of special effects they work with. Can you select the music the video is set to? Do they work with assistants, and if so, is their fee included in your package? 6. Find out how many hours prior to the ceremony your photographer or videographer will arrive. Are you expected to provide meals? Parking? Transportation? 7. Ask how long your negatives or master tape will be stored. A common industry standard is two to five years. Do you have the option to purchase your negatives or master? If you don't purchase the originals, will they eventually be discarded? 8. Be sure you are talking to the person who will actually photograph or video your wedding -- not just a studio rep or the owner. Ask to see a real wedding album, a selection of proofs from a recent wedding and a video or demo reel. In the event of an illness or other unforeseen problem, who will replace your photographer if he or she must cancel? 9. Find out if your photographer or videographer will travel. If so, you may be able to work out a reduced rate if you book their services for the engagement party, bridal shower or rehearsal dinner. Additionally, does your photographer charge extra if you want to shoot photos at different locales, say at nearby park, beauty salon or home? 10. Do you personally like the photographer? Does he listen to your concerns? Does he seem excited about shooting your wedding? 11. Pick someone who specializes in weddings. We know. You've read about celebs who hired paparazzi, fashion photographers and even documentary filmmakers for their weddings with fabulous results. If you have truly unique requirements and a special eye for photography or video, go ahead and experiment. But if you are like most brides, don't take a chance on results that can't be replaced. Stick with the pros. 12. We can't say this enough: Get references. And use them. Be sure to speak to a couple who has already received their album or tape. Were they happy with the results? Did they get their proofs back quickly? Were there any hidden charges?      Look for our ad in Wedding bells magazine in southern California Photographers' section

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Event Date * January February March April May June July August September October November December 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31 2008 2009 2007      Service requested * Photography only Video only Photography & Video      Total estimated budget * up to $1,000 $1,000 - $1,500 $1,500 - $2,000 $2,000 - $3,000 $3,000 - $5,000 $5,000 - $7,500 Above $7500      Time needed: Less than half-day Half-day Full-day Not sure      Your e-mail Address *      Phone number (optional) --      Contact name Your contact information will never be shared or sold to a third party. Wedding Photography & Video Production , Encino, California , (866) 932 2528