What to ask your photographer
before you book
You've been pouring your heart into planning your wedding, whether you have a wedding planner or not, you’ll want to do some research and find the perfect team to work with you and you'll want every meaningful moment captured in photos and videos. But with a bajillion fab photographers in this world, how do you know which one is the right fit for you?
First, fall in love with their portfolio and style. Do your homework by researching online, checking out websites, galleries, reviews, social media, etc. to find a photographer whose work speaks to you, pay attention to their composition, candids vs/ posed photos, editing color and style, and how responsive they are in their emails.
Next, make sure you click with them on a personal level! You want a photographer that you could see yourself being friends with. The more at ease you are with them, the more natural and authentic your wedding photos will be. Pick someone who has a similar personality, who will make you feel at ease and confident that your photos are in good hands. If you are on the shy side pick someone that will make you laugh by being a little silly and trust that they will get you out of your shell and you will love your true laugh!
Once you've narrowed down your A-list based on our two top tips above, ask each photographer the following questions to zero in on THE ONE for your wedding day.
Have you ever shot at my venue(s) before?
Are you available on my date?
Will you follow a shot list? Or do you prefer to have free reign to capture the festivities how you see fit?
Have you ever shot at my venue(s) before?
What are the restrictions for sharing photos online or for publication? Do you own the copyright to the photos?
Do you bring your own lighting?
How many weddings do you do a weekend?
How long after the wedding do we get to see the photos?
Will there be a second shooter or any assistants? Is there an additional fee for each?
What is the deposit and total fee?
Have you done many weddings that were similar to mine in size and style?
If your style is mostly candid, will I still get formal, posed portraits (and vice versa)?
Can I give you a list of specific shots we would like?
If my event lasts longer than expected, will you stay? Is there an additional charge?
Do you have liability insurance?
Do you charge a travel fee and what does that cover?
What is your refund/cancellation policy?
Will you give me the digital negatives or unlimited downloads so I can make my own prints?
Do you help with creating an album? Can I see some album designs?
Do you have full galleries from previous weddings that we can look through?