Just one example of what a good photographer can do. Photo by Carasco Photography.

I think there are probably about 5,000 wedding photographers in the Chicago area, so how do you go about narrowing that list down to the one you want to hire for your wedding or other special event?

My first recommendation would be to look at a photographer’s work if you are considering hiring that person.  Don’t just look at the limited selection on their website.  Ask to see all the photos from one event.   That will give you a good sense of the photographer’s range and style.  You might notice if they missed something you think is important.  You can judge for yourself the ratio of great shots to adequate ones.

The second thing, as with any vendor, is to get references.  Call people who have hired this person recently and ask if they were satisfied.  Ask if they thought they got value for their money.  Ask if there were any problems and how they were resolved.

Then, look at their prices and packages.  Every photographer has a different set of packages and it can be difficult to compare them.  But it is important to compare prices to be sure you are getting a good deal.

Finally, get to know your potential photographer.  You will be spending a lot of time with this person on your special day.  You should feel comfortable around your photographer.

Trust your instincts.  If you feel strongly that you have found the right person and if they can work within your budget, you have probably found your photographer.  If you have any doubts, keep looking until you are sure.

One kind of first dance. Photo by Magical Moments Photography.

If you are getting married this summer, you might be starting to think about your First Dance.  It’s an important wedding tradition for a lot of people and sometimes it takes some planning.

Of course, it’s not important to some people, at all, and I’m not saying you have to do it.  If you’re not dancers and you don’t want to dance, I say skip it.

But for those who are going to dance together at their wedding reception, here are some thoughts.  The first dance is usually a bit of a performance.  You don’t have to announce it to the guests, but if you do, then everyone will be watching.  Be prepared for the extra pressure and be sure you are both comfortable with the music and the moves you choose.

A different kind of dance, but they are having just as much fun. Photo by hannahelaine photography (hannahelaine.com).

I’ve seen all kinds of first dances, everything from a simple slow dance to an elaborately choreographed tango.  (The tango was done so well that the guests insisted on an encore!)  There’s nothing you can do that is “wrong.”  But if you want to make sure it is interesting for your guests–and easier for you–choose a song that is three or four minutes long.  It might be a mistake to have a ten minute first dance, especially if you are not an accomplished dancer.

Despite what I said before about performance pressure, try to remember that the important thing is that the dance is for the two of you.  It’s the first time in your married life that you’ll dance together and it ought to be a special moment.  So, if you lose the rhythm or forget a step, don’t sweat it.  Enjoy the dance.  It’s the first of many.