Long after the champagne is gone and the top of the cake has stopped taking up space in the freezer, some of the most treasured mementos of the couple's big day are photo albums and wedding videos taken during that special occasion.

Selecting a photographer to archive those all-important memories can be one of the most crucial decisions a couple has to make while planning a wedding.

The bride and groom rarely get the opportunity to appreciate the full scope of the wedding, said Tony Thompson of Tony's Design Photography. "They're just too busy and nervous."

However, the right photographer is able to capture all of the emotions of the wedding day to give the newlyweds a new perspective. They get to see the wedding as guests, Thompson said.

And it's easier than ever for couples to find a photographer with a style they love, said Joe Ong, a photographer for OKphotos.com. "With galleries on the Internet, they don't even have to leave the house."

"Everybody loves those award-winning romantic shots. The candid shots are also very popular, so people want a mix," Thompson said. "It's really about storytelling." Tony's Design Photography even covers the rehearsals to capture the wedding in its entirety, he added.

OKphotos.com provides a rare service in Oklahoma to capture the wedding with videographers, Ong said. "Video gives you so much more information." The sights and sounds help create a full experience, he added.

Regardless of how couples want their special days chronicled, it's important for them to find a photographer as early as possible. Photographers can schedule up to a year in advance, Thompson said.

Couples should also agree with the photographer beforehand about any time tables, pricing and the products the newlyweds will receive, Thompson said. "The wedding is hectic enough without worrying about the photographer."

Thompson and Ong agreed that compatibility with the photography can be the most important factor, and the bride and groom need to confirm that the photographer they've been working with is taking an interest in their day and will be with them at the wedding.

"There's this whole business side to it," Thompson said, "but the photographer is with you before, during and after the wedding."