worth being aware of...

Very true - I was sent the same invitiation -Now all people photography courses use models and some courses are aimed at learning a new technique or boosting an area you are weaker in but if you are worried about people who have just "Portfolio shots" ask to see whole weddings or pictures with guests in them as well as these shoots only ever have a bride and groom.

Ask questions if you only 2 or 3 couples on a photographers website - there may be good and valid reasons - A very competent photographer moving into weddings may have a load of portraits or childrens shots to show you but you just need to be in possession of the facts before you make a decision - Most decent photographers I know cover between 20 and 50 weddings a year.