Finding the right photographer can make or break your wedding day. I have heard so many horror stories of couples who let an inexperienced family member shoot their big day, or end up with a photographer they can’t trust because they didn’t do their research. Asking the right questions when looking for a photographer will give you peace of mind to enjoy your wedding day and celebrate with the people you love!

Style & Experience

Every photographer has their own unique style, and finding someone who fits your preference will help make you feel like yourself in your photos. Ask your potential photographers these questions to help find the right fit!

How would you describe your style?
Can I see a full wedding gallery?

Knowing the level of experience your photographer has is one of the most important factors to consider when looking for someone you can trust to capture your day. Ask these questions to gauge a photographers experience level!

Have you shot at my venue?
Have you captured indoor and outdoor weddings?
Do you shoot with only natural light, or do you have supplemental lighting?

Packages & Pricing

Deciphering what photographers offer with each wedding can be very confusing. Finding a photographer with clear wedding packages is important. You want to know exactly what you’ll be receiving for such an important occasion. Ask these questions to have a better understanding of offerings and expectations.

What's included in each package?
Do you limit the number of photos delivered in each package?
Do you offer payment plans or add-ons?
Do you include an engagement session or bridal portraits in any of your packages?
Do you offer film or only digital photos?

Logistics & Timeline

Making sure the timeline of your wedding day goes just the way you want it can be so stressful. You want to find a photographer who can follow a schedule and manage time well. Knowing that your photographer can stay on track, and help make sure everything gets covered is so important. Ask these questions for peace of mind on the logistics of your day.

How many hours of coverage do I need?
Do you help with posing and shot lists?
Can I see an example of a shot list you would use?

Reliability & Backup Plans

Even the best laid plans can go awry. You want to make sure all of your vendors are prepared in case of a logistic emergency. Make sure they have policies and plans in place to ensure you’re not left high and dry if something happens. Ask these questions for some peace of mind.

Do you carry insurance?
Do you use contracts?
What happens in an emergency?
Will you shoot in inclement weather?

Deliverables & Turnaround

Turnaround times can vary depending on how much of an editing backlog your photographer has, and how busy they are. However, if your photographer can’t give you an estimate of how long you can expect to wait to to receive your photos, that’s a big red flag. It’s also always good to review your contract, and discuss what rights you have to the photos. Photographers usually maintain rights to the photos they take, so they can include them in their portfolio. This doesn’t mean you don’t also have the right to do with them what you want! Make sure to clarify this with your photographer.

When will I get my photos?
Do you limit the number of photos you return?
Do I receive print rights?

If this all feels like a lot, that’s okay! It can be overwhelming planning a wedding, but a good wedding photographer will be willing to answer all of these questions and more to help your day be as stress free as possible.

If you would like a convenient little checklist with each of these questions, click the button below! If you’re interested in booking, and would like to ask me any of these questions, I would love to chat!

Wedding Photographer Question Checklist