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1.) The first question you should ask is how long have they been in business... the longer they've been in business the better their business practices as well as their work should be.
2.) Will the person I'm meeting with be my photographer? Some of the bigger companies get you in to meet with them and then stick you with a less experienced person on the day of your event. We think it's great that companies have grown and can take on more photographers, but feel it is very important to meet with or at least discuss your wedding with the person who will be covering your event and also to see some of their work.
3.) Are you insured? Do you bring back-up equipment? There are always those "what ifs" in life and having a back-up plan is always great! A company that is insured can repay you or afford to find someone of quality to replace themselves.
4.) Do we get to keep all of the images? This is the biggest question for the final product... I've spoken to so many people who either went with a photographer that made them order very expensive prints through them after the wedding or promised them all of the images on disk only to find that the files they received were only large enough for 4x6 prints or only for display on their television or computer. In this technological age there is no reason a photographer should not want to give you your images. The reason they charge so much more upfront is because they shouldn't expect a lot of high print orders afterwards. Personally, I feel that anyone can (even if it is a violation of copyright law) scan and print their images anywhere after they receive them so I'd rather give them the tools to make wonderful fantastic prints and so that they have something they can pass down to future generations.
5.) Have you been professionally trained? There is no special license for a photographer, anyone can pick up a camera and take a photo and call themselves a photographer. Make sure to look at their work and look for technical ability. Can the photographer do both indoor and outdoor photos with correct exposure? Are there any special techniques involved that set their images apart from the average snapshot. And be sure to find out if they have taken any classes, hold any degrees, or belong to any professional organizations that sets them apart as a professional.
6.) Most importantly! Do you like their work and personalities? On the day of your wedding the single vendor that you spend the most time with is your photographer... you two should click or feel comfortable around each other because if you don't it will show in your photos. Likewise if you think their photos are not that great, but are willing to sacrifice for price don't expect your photos to be much better... after the wedding is all over you have your memories, photos, and video using a professional with a great personality is the best way to ensure wonderful images for years to come.
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