7 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking
Choosing a wedding photographer may seem like just one more thing to check off of your planning to-do list, but it’s one of the most important decisions you’ll make for the big day. That’s why you should know exactly which questions to ask your wedding photographer before hiring them – so you can feel sure you’re booking the right person for you.
Of course, you’ll want someone who can give you the photos you’re hoping for, but finding someone who makes you feel safe, comfortable, and excited is even more important. Weddings can be stressful at times and having someone in your corner who’s there entirely for you can make all the difference.
I’ve laid out my top seven questions for wedding photographers so you can feel confident in choosing the perfect photographer for your wedding. Let’s dive in.
What questions to ask your wedding photographer
It can be hard to know which questions to ask when you’ve never planned a wedding before – how can you know what to look out for? As a photographer, I know all of the ways things could go wrong and which questions to ask your wedding photographer ahead of time, so you don’t have to find out.
Let’s walk through some important ones together.
What are your values?
This question can tell you a lot about your photographer right off the bat. It’ll help you understand what drives them and which aspects of a wedding day they see as the most important. This not only helps you understand what to expect, but can also help you determine if your values align with theirs.
What do you consider to be your style/approach?
This question helps you understand what your wedding day could look like through the photographer’s lens. For instance, do they typically focus on small moments? Do they stay hidden in the background or take a more “in on the action” approach? This will help you decide if they’re style aligns with what you want for your day.
What's the process like from start to finish?
Knowing what to expect can eliminate so much stress from any situation, especially your wedding day. Getting information from your photographer about their entire process helps nip that stress in the bud from the get go. You’ll have an idea of what’s coming and you’ll know exactly what your wait time for photos and payment structure will be.
Can I see an example of your full photo galleries?
Asking your potential photographer for examples of their full galleries helps you understand what your own gallery could look like. Take a careful look through and pay close attention to the moments and aspects of the day they capture. Are those the types of shots you’re looking for? Are they a style you like? Getting a glimpse of other couples’ photos can help you determine if those are the types of photos you’re looking for.
Do you back up your equipment and photos?
This question is a big one. It tells you if your photographer is prepared not just to take your photos, but to ensure they’re protected against fluke situations (like a broken memory card, accidental erasure, or other worst-case-scenarios). Knowing your photos will be safe gives you one less thing to worry about.
What happens if something comes up and you need to cancel?
When you plan a wedding, you’ll inevitably have to make multiple plans, just in case something goes wrong (cue the rainy day). It’s important to know your photographer put the same amount of planning in. Is there a backup plan on their end? Do they have someone who could stand in for them on the day of? While your photographer can’t control whether or not something comes up, they can do their best to ensure your wedding day still goes smoothly.
Get specific — ask questions that may only apply to you
Up until now, I’ve shared my top questions to ask your wedding photographer. But your wedding day is exactly that — yours. Make sure you ask any questions that will help you make your day as seamless and easy as possible. For example:
If you’re feeling anxious, ask your photographer if they have any information or advice that could help quell that.
If you have unique plans for your day, like a choreographed dance, special games, or a moment reserved for you as a couple, ask your photographer how they’d manage that.
If you want to know more about them, their values, or their background, now is the best time to ask. Afterall, you’ll be spending a lot of time with them and trusting them to capture one of the most important days of your relationship.
When all is said and done, the biggest questions to ask your wedding photographer are the ones that will make you feel seen, heard, and excited to work with them. Hopefully this list has helped you figure out what information matters to you and feel confident moving through the process of choosing the best photographer for your day.
Interested in learning more about me, my style, or my approach to photographing your wedding?