Call the Shots

Ask recently married friends how many pictures their photographer took (i.e., how many proofs they got) and whether that number was sufficient, so you'll have a frame of reference when you talk to your photographer. A photographer shoots about 500 exposures at an average wedding (ceremony and four-hour reception).

See an Actual Album

Look at pictures the photographer shot at a previous wedding to see if he connected with the couple and captured the mood of their day. If possible, ask to see a proof book -- the shots the photographer took before the couple chose which ones they wanted. This is his work in the raw. Check out weddings that were shot in similar settings or at a similar time of day for the best comparison.

Beware the Bait and Switch

Some contracts spell out the studio's right to send any staff photographers to your wedding -- don't sign if that's not okay with you. Some also reserve the exclusive right to photograph your wedding, leaving Uncle John out in the cold. Read your contract carefully.

A Tip on Tipping

Know this: It's totally optional. Established photographers will not expect a tip, especially when their fees will be among the highest in the wedding budget. That said, a monetary "thank you" is always graciously received, especially if your photographer is a subcontractor or freelancer (i.e. doesn't own the studio). Estimate $20-$25 (think cab fare home, or the cost of grabbing a nightcap after a hard day's work).

Don't Underestimate

You may think you don't need many pictures for your album, but chances are that once you see the proofs, you'll want more than you thought you did (especially if you've hired a spectacular shutterbug). Err on the side of too many proofs.

Negatives are Positive

Most professional photographers keep their own negatives -- you'll get the best-quality prints and negatives will be properly stored. Ensure that your photographer keeps your negatives on file according to her policy; you may be able to buy them after a certain period of time.

Share the Wealth

Allow friends and family to order prints directly from your photographer: This is easy if your photographer uses a service like XXXXXXX (our online photo partner) to post your wedding photos. You can email guests a link to your online album, and they can order prints directly, without having to go through you.

Order Your Own Album

Albums can get incredibly pricey; you might decide to buy and create your own instead of working with your photographer's wares. Be careful not to put your pictures in cheap albums that may damage them over time. Look for "archival" or "acid-free" on the label.

Rain, Rain Go Away

Don't let the weather ruin your wedding day -- use it to your advantage! If it rains, grab two big umbrellas, go outside, and shoot pictures in the rain. Black-and-white shots of a couple kissing under one umbrella with delicate raindrops creating puddles at their feet are very romantic. Plan ahead and have classic black oversized umbrellas on hand.

Black and White Benefit

Plain and simple, black-and-white photography is preferred for documenting emotional moments. The fewer colors your eyes have to process, the cleaner and easier an image is to absorb when viewing. The result? The subject shines through!

A Behind-the-Scene Queen

Choose a photo pro whom you feel extremely comfortable with and don't mind inviting backstage. Some of the most beautiful wedding moments happen while the bride is dressing, while the family is waiting, or during the reception when the couple steals away for a kiss. Keep your photographer aware of your whereabouts at (almost) all times.

Pick a Perfect Package

Some photography packages include parents' albums, but many don't. Translation? You'll pay an additional fee later. Talk about each package's perks and try to create a custom menu of items -- for instance, some photographers will shoot engagement photos for free if you put a deposit down on wedding-day services.

Must Haves

Don't overwhelm your photographer with must-take shots. Instead create a wish list of your top 10.

Hot Shot

Our current favorite candid photo: the moment right after the ceremony ends, when the smiles are most genuine.