As someone who knows a slew of professional photographers that have had their work stolen (including myself), and as someone who has seen numerous people pass themselves off as professionals, I thought that this article was relevant to you as you search for your wedding photographer.
http://allebachphotography.com/topics/tips-for-catching-a-wedding-fraudtographer-fauxtographer/
The gist of it, if you don’t want to read it, that in order to protect yourself from a poser is this:
- Meet the photographer is person and ask questions;
- Ask for references;
- Ask to see an entire event;
- Pay attention to photographic clues (including geography);
- Google the photographers name;
- Stay away from Craigslist.
Of course, blessings to you as you search for the right photographer for your wedding.
Chris.