If you're getting married soon, but don't have a wedding photographer lined up, then this article will share 7 sample ways to help you find reliable and affordable wedding photographers-

1. The first place you should start - ask friends or relatives about their own experience with their wedding photographer. Your own circle of trusted friends and relatives are probably the best kind of reference.

2. Another great place to conduct research - Google Places. More often than not, you will find actual customer reviews (both good and bad) about the company. And the best part is, the feed backs are sourced from third party sites like Truelocal and other local business site listings.

3. Check out their website - although a Wedding Photographer's website is fully loaded with prior projects and beautiful images, you can grasp a pretty good idea of the photographer's style. It's a good point of reference to start a list of likes and dislikes on various photographers, and from the same list you can narrow the choices down to your top 2 or 3 favorite photographers.

By having a list of 2 to 3 choices, you have the opportunity to compare the services being offered, their photography style and price. However, before deciding on one, do make it a point to schedule a time with them and interview them as part of the selection process.

4. Request for a portfolio review of his or her work - it's about matching your requirements with their photographic style. Hence by checking out their prior work you will gain an insight on their personality and suitability.

5. Flexibility counts - a photographer's job is to listen and understand their customer's requirements. Since every wedding is different, a professional photographer (within reasons) will try to work within your needs, your budget and timing. So try to avoid a photographer who is not willing to work with you.

6. Can you afford your photographer? A wedding is an expensive occasion, and it can be easy to get carried away. This is where a flexible photographer can tailor a package that will suit your budget. As long as the request is reasonable, don't be shy to ask the photographer what packages he or she can offer to suit your budget.

7. You hired your professional because of one reason - you trust their work. Hence let go of the noose, and let them manage the photography for you. Before your big day arrives, your top notch photographer will have co-ordinated a few important matters such as your specific requests, the location of the shoot, the important people who should be in your photos and the proceedings of the day. In a nut shell, your photographer's role is to capture every special moment of your day, and make your wedding day 'hassle free' and special.

There you have it, 7 simple tips to help you get started in finding a reliable and affordable wedding photographer. It is only by taking the time and effort to conduct your own research - you will stand a far better chance of finding the most suitable wedding photographer for both you and your partner.