40 essential questions to ask your wedding photographer
Here’s a list of 40 Essential Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer to help ensure you choose the right person to capture your special day. Selecting a wedding photographer is a crucial decision, as they’ll be responsible for preserving the memories of one of the most important days of your life. From understanding their style to knowing what’s included in their packages, asking the right questions can make all the difference. This guide will help you gather the information you need to make a well-informed choice, ensuring that your wedding photos turn out just as you envision.
Why listen to me?
I’m a professional wedding photographer!
When it comes to wedding photography, I bring a wealth of experience, expertise, and passion that sets me apart. My approach is not just about taking photos; it’s about capturing the essence of your day, the emotions, and the unforgettable moments that make it unique. Over the years, I’ve honed my skills in various wedding environments, mastering the art of relaxed, documentary-style photography that resonates with couples who want genuine, unposed memories.
Watch the video to see what I’m all about and continue reading my 40 essential questions to ask your wedding photographer.
40 Essential Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer
1. What is your photography style?
Understanding their style—whether it’s documentary, traditional, or fine art—can help determine if it aligns with your vision. With myself, how my couples feel during their wedding day, is very important to me.
2. How many weddings have you photographed?
Experience matters, especially for capturing a variety of moments and managing different lighting conditions. Personally, I’ve photographed over 300 weddings.
3. Can we see a full gallery of a recent wedding?
A full gallery shows their work across an entire day, beyond just the highlights.
4. Do you have experience at our chosen venue?
Familiarity with your venue can be beneficial for knowing the best spots for photos. That said, a quick 10 minute venue scout is mostly all a professional photographer needs.
5. What is included in your packages?
Clarify what’s included, such as hours of coverage, number of images, and any additional services.
6. How many hours of coverage do you recommend?
This helps you plan the day and ensures important moments are captured. You might want longer coverage if more guests are arriving for the evening wedding reception.
7. Do you have a second shooter?
A second photographer can capture different angles and additional moments. There’s worth having for larger weddings and where you’re getting ready in multiple locations.
8. Can we add extra hours if our wedding runs longer than expected?
Knowing their flexibility with time can reduce stress if there are delays.
9. How do you handle low-light situations?
Weddings often have dark indoor venues or evening events, so it’s essential they’re equipped for low light. Their portfolio should put your mind at rest.
10. Will you bring backup equipment?
Backup equipment ensures that technical issues won’t disrupt the day.
11. How long after the wedding will we receive our photos?
This gives you an idea of when to expect your images after the event.
12. How many images can we expect to receive?
Knowing the average number of photos helps set realistic expectations.
13. Do you edit all the photos?
Clarify whether all images are edited or just a selected few. Retouching is often an added extra with photographers.
14. Can we request specific edits or retouching?
Some photographers may offer custom edits based on your preferences.
15. Do you offer engagement sessions?
Engagement sessions can be a great way to get comfortable with your photographer before the wedding.
16. What is your payment structure?
Knowing the payment timeline helps with budgeting and planning.
17. Are travel expenses included in your pricing?
If your photographer is traveling for the wedding, check if travel fees are additional.
18. How do you handle cancellations or rescheduling?
This is especially important if unexpected circumstances arise.
19. Can we provide a shot list or must-have photos?
Some photographers welcome guidance on specific shots, while others prefer creative freedom. Shot lists can hinder capturing those all important moments which you cannot plan.
20. How do you handle family group shots?
Group shots can take time; understanding their approach can help with time management. Please be realistic with the amount of group photos you ask for. Do you want to stand in group photos for 45 minutes or do you want to spend time with your guests?
21. What happens if you’re unable to photograph our wedding?
Ensure they have a backup plan in case of emergencies.
22. Will we have printing rights to the photos?
Knowing if you can print and share images freely is crucial.
23. Do you offer albums or prints?
Ask if they offer physical products like albums or prints and if they’re included in the package.
24. Can we customise our package?
Some photographers may allow you to add or remove services to suit your needs.
25. How do you ensure our photos are backed up after the wedding?
Understanding their backup process can give peace of mind that your photos are safe.
26. How would you describe your approach on the wedding day?
Some photographers are more hands-on, while others take a candid, unobtrusive approach. Think about how they will make you feel on the day.
27. Do you have liability insurance?
Many venues require photographers to have liability insurance. Every professional photographer needs liability insurance.
28. How do you handle unexpected weather changes?
A photographer who’s prepared for weather issues can adapt and still capture great images. Think about how your day will be affected by wet weather.
29. Will you scout our venue beforehand?
Scouting the venue allows the photographer to find the best photo spots and lighting. I do this on the morning of a wedding.
30. What attire will you wear to the wedding?
It’s important that the photographer’s attire fits with the formality of the event.
31. Can we share our Pinterest board or inspiration photos with you?
Sharing inspiration can help them understand your style preferences.
32. Do you have any recent client testimonials?
Testimonials provide insight into others’ experiences with the photographer.
33. What’s your favorite part of photographing weddings?
This gives insight into their passion and approach.
34. How do you handle guest photo requests?
Some photographers may have policies for handling guest requests during the event.
35. Can you accommodate our timeline for the day?
Confirm that they’re comfortable working with your planned timeline.
36. What’s your process for posing couples who feel awkward in front of the camera?
A skilled photographer will help you feel comfortable and look natural.
37. Do you shoot in RAW or JPEG format?
RAW format offers more flexibility for editing, which photographers prefer. A raw photo from a professional camera, is very dull and dark compared to a iphone for an iphone, so photographers typically don’t provide raw photos.
38. What types of cameras and lenses do you use?
Understanding their equipment gives you an idea of the quality and flexibility they can provide.
39. Do you provide sneak peeks shortly after the wedding?
Some photographers share a few images right after the event as a teaser.
40. Can we contact some of your past clients as references?
Personally I think this could breach some data protection laws but they should have glowing reviews from past couples.