We asked photographers themselves how to shop for someone who matches your style and your budget. Here, in a snapshot, is their advice.

STEP 1. Our five photographers concur that your first stop should be the web. “Who says you can’t judge a book by its cover?” says Phil Cantor of Phil Cantor Photography in Montclair (800-487-1065; www.philcantor.com). “Websites are good indications of the professionalism and creativity of the person behind the site and behind the lens.”

The trick, say photographers at Magique Studios in Paramus and Short Hills (www.magiquestudios.com), is to find a photographer who really captures your emotions.”

“Ask yourself if they’re making pictures from their heart, or just from a formula,” suggests Dan Epstein of Dan Epstein Photography in Montclair (800-250-3151; www.danepstein.com).

STEP 2. Once you’ve found three or four impressive websites, arrange appointments to meet the photographers themselves. Check out the creative vibe of their studios and portfolios. “Insist on meeting the photographers themselves, trusting your instincts on whether you can be comfortable with and trust them,” advises Milton Gil of Milton Gil Photography in Lyndhurst (201-438-3018; www.miltongil.com).

Most photographers agree that personal chemistry between photographer and bride is essential. “In other words, is this someone you’d like to have dinner with?” asks Epstein.

Jeffrey Vock of Jeffrey Vock Photography in Jersey City (201-798-6706; www.jvock.com) elaborates: “A good photographer maximizes the comfort level so people feel less shy and intruded upon, willing to come out of their shells. The bride must have full confidence in her photographer, on this day of all days.”

Ask your prospective photographer some nitty-gritty questions, including two suggested by Epstein: 1) Can I order a la carte or just wedding packages? and 2) Are negatives or digital files included?

STEP 3. Narrow your choice to one or two candidates, then log onto wedding forums to sample some honest reviews from recent brides.

STEP 4. And what about cost? “Don’t even think about price until the very last thing,” says Gil. “Choose for match and artistry first.” Vock and Epstein, on the other hand, advise brides to get a price menu before bothering to interview a photographer. But there’s one thing all studios agree upon: The memories are priceless.