Don’t take chances on missing a memory — interview your photographer well in advance and ask lots of questions to make sure he gets the picture. Ask to see albums he’s created and get a couple of references (and call them!) Find out about contracts, liability insurance and of course, what the plan is for the big day. How many photos will he shoot? What if he can’t make it — is there a back-up?

From shoot lists to digital proofs, this checklist covers all the bases so print it out and take it with you. Click the icon above to download the worksheet.