I never knew that becoming a photographer is not an easy job. I thought that all they need to do is point and shoot with their big toys. Some photographer charges an amount that at times you feel 'Is it worth it?' This mind set that I had previously changes when my photographer started their task on my morning nikah session. 

Carrying equipment that weigh the same weight as them comes with stamina. Plus they need to carry all that, all day long. And they're superbly heavy *hats off to them*.

Here's a few tip to consider:

1. If you're going to hire an outstation photographer, make sure that their quotation includes other charges as well (e.g transportation, accommodation, etc). Do not be fooled with the advert saying 'RM999 only'.

2. Hire a photographer that you're comfortable with. You can identify if the photographer is easy to work with from the 1st meeting with them. Yes, it's true. That's why people say 'First impression is important'. Notice how their tone, body language and how they react towards your favor. I'm lucky that the photographer that I hired was a friend of mine. 

3. Before committing yourself to a photographer, ask for their work samples as many as possible through soft copies or if they have a website that you can refer to. Be it black and white or colored photos.

4. Lay out all your expectations clearly. No one, not even photographers can read your mind (Some clients may have weird requests). Give examples by using photos of what kind of outcome you want, or which angle you would like them to take. It's very important for both side to understand.

5. Set a meeting with your photographers again, prior to your wedding date. Recap on what you guys have discussed in the last meeting to make sure that everyone is on the same page. 

6. Some photographers request to have a tour on how your wedding venue will look like. Like mine, they scouted the venue a day before. If your photographer did not mention this part, you can politely suggest to them 'When will you guys arrive and do you want to at least have a picture on how the wedding venue look like?'. This way, they won't be running around like headless chicken on your real day.

7. Listen to your photographer on certain instructions because they have the most experience but then again, don't forget to remind them on what kind of photos you want and you can also suggest a few moves during the photo session. Wedding photography should be a fun thing to do. Don't be too serious about it. It will be a plus point if your photographer are jokers like mine. A natural laugh and smile will always look good.

8. This is a very important point. NOTHING IS PERFECT. Expect a little imperfection in your wedding photos and try not to be a fussy client. Yes, you are the client and you're charged with an xxxx amount but photographers are people, they're not photo printer.

Preparing a wedding is a 2 way communication between you and your photographer. You need to have the give and take attitude. A good communication will produce an excellent outcome. So be wise in choosing your photographer and good luck.

Photos courtesy of Memoria Photo.