So you’re in the market for a wedding photographer. I can’t tell you how many posts I see daily on my community page looking for a wedding photographer. And let me tell you, sometimes there are fifty or more comments advertising their businesses. This can be overwhelming for any client. But how do you know which wedding photographer is right for you? As you research a photographer to find the right fit, there are a few essential questions that you must ask to ensure they are the perfect fit for your day. So, let us break it down for you, question by question.
Pre-Wedding Planning Questions
It is essential to ask any photographer to meet for an initial consultation. We prefer face to face consultations, but if they are unavailable to meet within your schedule or availability, schedule a Teams or Zoom meeting in lieu of a phone call. During the initial consultation, you’ll want to ask some basic, but vital questions.
What is your photography style? Each photographer has a specific style. It can be the manner in which they take the photo or just their editing style. Understanding their style is SO important. Some photographers lean more traditional, others prefer fine art, while some lean more towards the artsy or candid shots. Ensure their style fits your overall vision first and foremost!
Ask to see a FULL wedding gallery? Skip the highlight reel for this one, because let’s be honest, just like our social media are our personal highlight reels, the same goes for photography (or lets be honest anything). Seeing a full gallery rather than just a highlight reel will give you a better idea of the full picture and the photographer's consistency. You’ll be able to see all the shots and what kind of shots were done. In addition, you’ll be able to see all the editing and determine if you enjoy their overall photography style.
Does your portfolio reflect my vision? If you’ve read our blog on how to select your vendors, you will know that the first step is to define your wedding vision. Before you meet with any vendor, you’ll need to narrow down your vision. This includes your must-haves and you want-to-haves. Ask your photographer if they have portfolios from your venue, or if they’ve done your type of wedding (ex. Elopement, destination etc.) You will want a photographer that will feel comfortable and experienced with your style and vision of the wedding.
Tell me about scheduling on the big day. Ask about their time management. Do they work with the wedding planner to create a timeline? Are they more on the fly with their time management? You will want to know if they are flexible or more of a timeline kind of guy or gal.
Do you have a back-up plan? Ask if they have backup equipment or back-up their photos. I try not to give horror stories, but I know someone who lost all their wedding photos and was literally ghosted because her computer crashed and she lost all her clients' wedding photos. So ask how your photos are stored and if they are backed up on the cloud, or some sort of drive. Because YOU NEVER KNOW!
Do you retouch your photos? Talk about editing and if they retouch your photos. For most, it is included in the editing, but others may charge extra for it so it’s always best practice to ask!
Time to Talk Logistics and Packages
This is the nitty gritty part of the consultation. Ask about their logistics and packages that they offer. Do they offer any add-ons or what is included in their packages? Ask to read their contract to determine the fine lines to clarify any misunderstandings.
Determine what is included in the packages. You will want to ask about what is included, can you do add ons, or additional prints?
What are the hours of coverage? What is included for each package? What are the hours and is there an overtime rate in case the wedding runs late? You will want to know before the big day if they are flexible with staying later than contracted hours if the wedding runs behind, or if they charge per hour etc.
Do you have a second shooter? A second shooter is great to have and some photographers can’t live without them. Inquire if it’s included or for an additional cost.
How long until you receive your photos? Ask about an estimated delivery time and what will be expected. The typical range is anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks. Also ask about a sneak peek – some photographers will send over a few photos prior to your entire album (because we all know you’re dying to post on social media!).
Do you do prints? Most photographers just give you access to a photography drive, but some do deliver prints. Our wedding photographer gave us prints in a custom box. Photographers may have different albums, or physical prints they will give you.
Are you insured? Most wedding vendors will be insured or have liability insurance. This covers parties if there are accidents or damages to your venue.
Will I get a Refund? It’s a scary thought to have, but it’s best to know. What is their refund policy, can you change your date, or what happens if you need to cancel? Life happens, Covid happens, and sometimes you need to cancel. It’s best to know what to expect before the unexpected happens!
The Wedding Day
As you continue your consultation, fast forward and ask what to expect on your wedding day. You want to ensure that they will collaborate with your other vendors and their approach aligns with your overall vision and expectations.
How do you capture the moments? We’ve all been to a wedding and seen it. The photographer smack dab in the middle of the aisle, snapping away. Determine what you prefer and ask away. Do you prefer candid shots, do you want an intimate ceremony with the photographer at a safe distance? What approach does the photographer take and does it jive with yours?
Do they collaborate? You want to create your dream team of vendors. And ideally, this means that each vendor, including your photographer, will be able to communicate and collaborate with the other vendors on the big day.
How do you handle unexpected situations? Such as rainy weather, or poor lighting. Or maybe the reception space is darker than intended. Does the photographer have skills to adapt in difficult environments?
How do you capture it ALL? Ask the photographer the key moments that they aim to capture. How do they capture the ceremony, first kiss, or behind the scene photos. Ensure they’ve hit all your big must have shots in the discussion.
How do you handle group photos? How will they collaborate and collect your group photo folks on the wedding day and when? They have to have a plan, be organized, and efficient. We love a photographer that works with their clients to create a list of group photos before the wedding day!
Catch a Vibe
Bottom line, do you vibe together? Your photographer will be one of the vendors that you interact with the most on your wedding day. They will be with you from start to finish and see you in all the ups and downs. You need to feel comfortable with your photographers.
Are you comfortable around them? You need to feel comfortable and confident with your photographers. What kind of approach do they have? Is it a relaxed approach that will keep you relaxed?
Do you click? What is their overall vibe like? Are they laid back? Are they hands on or hands off? You will need to determine if you click at your initial consultation.
Can you help me look my best? You want your photographer to be your right hand guy or gal. You want someone that will tell you if you’ve got lipstick on your teeth, or fix your veil before your first look. Ask if they will help you pose and ensure that you’re still looking your best.
We could probably go on and on about what to ask your photographer, but these are definitely our top questions and inquiries. Your photographer is one of the biggest and most important vendors on your wedding day, so do not be afraid to ask all the questions. Photos last a lifetime. One day you’ll be looking back at your wedding album and cherishing these moments. So, do your research, book the consultation, and don’t be afraid to print this list and ask away. We’d rather have you knowledgeable and make an informed decision, so you can enjoy a lifetime of memories from your wedding day.
Lori Losee is the owner of Elegant Affairs, a Tacoma Wedding Planner with over 19 years of experience. We create awe-inspiring experiences—Events filled with meaning and refined elegance. Behind the scenes, our experienced team collaborates on each stage of the process, executing your vision and a wedding, celebration, or corporate event that is unique to you.