Questions for Your Wedding Photographer
Wedding photography is an interesting topic, and your photographer will be one of the essential wedding suppliers you book. Whether you are hiring another company or me, these questions will help you find the perfect photographer for your wedding day.
The Basics
Do you have my date available?
Firstly, if the answer is no, there is no point in asking the rest of these questions.
What is your primary wedding photography style?
While you shop around, you will know from looking at different portfolios which style of photography you prefer, whether it is the unobtrusive documentary style, the stylized fashion editorial, or the classic traditional. Most photographers shoot a blend of various styles of photography, but you’ll want them to specialize in a style that’s important to you. For more information about my wedding photography style and philosophy, check out My Photography Style.
Can I see a recent example of your complete wedding from start to finish?
A photographer’s website will always showcase their best work. However, can they consistently deliver beautiful pictures all day? Can they handle challenges like cultural weddings, dark venues, or rain? Professional photographers can easily share a full online gallery. Therefore, if you’re happy with their recent wedding blogs, you might skip this question.
Experience and Versatility
How many weddings have you done, and how many do you do in a year?
You only have one chance to get fantastic wedding photos, so you’ll want to hire someone who knows how to get those shots under pressure. Some photographers shoot 15 weddings per year and do all their editing, while others shoot 50 or more and outsource editing. Thus, two different business models can’t be compared directly.
Have you photographed a wedding at my venue before?
Good wedding photographers can shoot at any location. Personally, I find it inspiring to work in new places. However, if you’re worried, ask if they can scout your venue with you beforehand.
Are you experienced in my cultural wedding?
Different cultures have unique traditions. A great wedding photographer can adapt to any wedding. If you insist on cultural experience, mention it in your first contact. Wedding photographers specialize in weddings, despite the specific customs and traditions.
Logistics and Coordination
Will you be the one photographing the wedding?
This is a crucial question. Many companies have multiple photographers. Ensure you talk to the photographer who will be shooting your wedding and check their portfolio.
How will you work with my videographer?
Your videographer and photographer need to coordinate and stay out of each other’s way. If you haven’t booked a videographer yet, ask for suggestions.
Do you have a contract?
Having a contract shows professionalism. The contract details all the services your photographer will provide, preventing surprises later. Check out my post on Why You Must Have a Wedding Contract.
Do you have insurance?
A professional wedding photographer should have insurance for equipment failure, theft, or accidents. If they don’t, they might be new or not taking their business seriously.
What happens if you’re sick?
A solo photographer should have a backup plan for emergencies. While it’s unlikely for a photographer to be ill or have an accident, they should provide a full refund if they can’t cover your wedding due to an emergency. This should be included in your contract.
More Questions for Your Wedding Photographer – Planning and Flexibility
How long after the wedding will the pictures and albums be ready?
Knowing if overtime is costly helps you plan accordingly. Your contract should state how additional time is determined and its cost to avoid surprises in the final fee.
How long after the wedding will the pictures and albums be ready?
Some photographers, including myself, send a “sneak peek” shortly after the wedding. Timelines vary, so get an estimate in your contract.
What kind of gear do you use? Do you have backups?
Some photographers, including myself, send a “sneak peek” shortly after the wedding. Timelines vary, so get an estimate in your contract. Check out my gear page.
What will you wear on my wedding day?
Your photographer should dress appropriately and respect the occasion. Don’t expect them to wear a suit or dress, but they should be comfortable and practical while working hard all day.
For more inspiration and updates, visit my Instagram Page.
