Finding the right photographer

Finding the right photographer can sometimes be a bit of a challenge. There's so much to consider before you make the plunge and decide on the person or company who you'd like to capture your special moments.

Here's our top five list for finding the right photography specialist for your needs:

Step 1: Ask friends for recommendations
This is a really simple step, simply give your friends and colleagues a call or drop them an email asking if they know anyone they'd recommend for the job. The chances are that some of your contacts will have had their own studio sittings recently and will be happy to recommend if they were impressed themselves.

Step 2: Check the Yellow Pages
This might sound like a bit of a retro step - but not everyone has converted online yet so you'll get a good feel for local specialists.

Step 3: Check online
Yeah, yeah... now it's time to do Step 2, but do it online! Make a list of what you find and like the look of. Aim for a list of 5 - 10 specialists that you like the look of.

Step 4: Do your research
Get on the phone and start talking to the people on you list. You need to find out about prices, sitting times, booking fees, print options. Ask them if they've got a portfolio and get in to see it - this will help you to get a better feel of their photography ability and style.

Step 5: Go for it
You've got a nice list, you've seen the portfolios and you've got the prices. So sit down with the other decision makers and work out the pros and cons. Who's got the best style? Who are you feeling most comfortable with? Is price an issue?

It's important that you feel you've made the right decision so that you can feel comfortable on the shoot and ensure you get the best pictures possible. Make your decision and go for it!