For most events in our lives, a cheap camera is sufficient to record what is important for posterity. But some things like weddings are, hopefully, once in a lifetime, and worth paying more to have it photographed right. So from the myriad of choices how should one go about selecting which photographer to hire? Here are seven principles that will aid in that choice.

1. Availability. Is the day free for the photographer to be present all day? Also, most people can’t afford hiring a distant photographer just because they’re good. (A couple in Virginia would choose someone doing wedding photography in Virginia Beach.) How close do they live to the place the ceremony and reception will take place?

2. Skill. Photographing a wedding is much more than aim and click. It involves good equipment and expert skill. Everything is digital these days. What is the pixel range they will use for the pictures? The more pixels, the larger the file size but the better the resolution. Then what is the company’s reputation? What do others say about their skill in taking wedding pictures? Are samples available?

3. Personality. From your first interview, imagine yourself working with them for several hours. Were they pushy, wanting to get you to choose their most expensive options? Or did they make recommendations and let you decide? Do you think they would tend to want it their way, or would they work with your plans? How good are they in working with children?

4. Price. The average cost of a wedding in the U.S. now is over $20,000. Though you don’t want to blow your budget on pictures, you do want the quality of a professional. What is your maximum budget for pictures? Do they have options within this amount that include all you have in mind?

5. Service. How soon will you be able to see the pictures? Some even have a computer slideshow of the wedding pictures during the reception. That is certainly a nice touch. How quickly can prints be made available? Will others of the family and friends have access to them via a website or CD?

6. Options. Good photographers will have a wide variety of options to choose from. Do you want pictures taken during the rehearsal? Are the main pictures going to be taken before or after the ceremony? Do they have creative suggestions on making it special? Will the pictures be printable by others in the family off the webpage?

7. Integrity. What is their reputation about keeping their promises and delivering what they say? Will they be in place when needed and stay as long as you expect? Will all the parts of the package you chose be delivered as you expect?

A wedding is too important of an event to let it pass with only an amateur photographer recording it. As you plan the big day in your lives, consider these principles so that not a single precious moment is forgotten. And if you’re in the area for Virginia Beach photography, look up Expressions Photography. Their friendly and professional expertise will capture all the memories of your special day.