Picture this:

• Dressed in their formal attire, three generations of women casually lean against the kitchen counter, laughing and crying and sharing memories -- just like they do every Sunday morning over coffee in the very same room.
• A groom and his brother lay precariously across the seats of a convertible car, laughing to some secret only brothers share.
• A young girl sits at her sister's vanity staring at her reflection in the mirror -- the bride's veil atop her head.
• A bride, an avid equestrian, passes by the barn door grasping the train to her taffeta gown as her beloved horse arches his neck and whinnies a greeting.

All are wedding day memories to cherish forever, but how many of these candid, poignant moments of time are captured on film to be added as mementos to a wedding album?

Choosing a photographer should be just as important as choosing the dress, reception hall and honeymoon spot. While the traditional portrait-style photography is still very honored, creative photography is quickly growing in popularity. Candid photographs capture not only the special moments of the day, but the ambiance as well, for it is the sudden, touching and quirky moments that make up not only your wedding day, but life itself.

When it comes to choosing a wedding photographer, take the advice of other brides and people in the wedding business. Shop around as you would for a reception hall, a wedding gown, a honeymoon package. Set up an appointment and meet your perspective photographer. Check out his work. Peruse his portraits. While price range is a contributing factor to choosing a photographer, it should not be the only criteria. The photographer's actual style and personality should be the deciding factor. When choosing a wedding photographer, you should feel the same excitement and confidence as when you finally choose your wedding gown or reception hall.

Weddings are one of life's most beautiful moments...why not have it professionally and creatively captured on film to cherish anniversary after anniversary, so long as you both shall live.