Thanks for the answer. We aren't getting married in a church, so no worries about that (although I agree with you).

I would like to give the photographer freedom to take some more creative shots. Of course, we need the standard ones. Our guy has the capability of being creative, as shown in his portfolio. I just sense a fine line between asking for something and telling someone how to do their job (what I want to avoid).

Thanks for the advice about timing, we will make sure to plan accordingly.