What to Expect When You Hire a Photographer

When you've found a photographer that you like and have secured their services with a deposit here's what you can expect at your party.

You should have a contract between you and the photographer, which includes "the fine print" - click here for more info on that! - so at this point both parties should have a strong understanding of expectations.

A week before the big day, check-in with your photographer to confirm arrival time, set up and any additional special requests.

Make sure you have their contact information including a cell phone number as well as an office number and know who to you call if they are late to your party.

Make all the necessary introductions at the event so the "communication" can be clear. That means if you have a party planner directing cake presentation or a deejay introducing a special guest or a surprise performance planned, you should connect the photographer with whoever is in charge. This way, no special moments are missed. Directors or planners will make sure your photographer is front and center, ready to capture the moment right from the start.

A useful tool for your photographer is an outline of planned events. Create a timetable for the party with important scheduled events that are going to take place, such as "10:00pm cake is served," and give a copy to the photographer.

Finally, you may want to make a list of photo ops that you definitely want to get such as the arrival of a guest of honor or a shot with great-grandma, grandma and mom,  so you don't miss any moments at the party.