Are you recently engaged and looking to plan your wedding day but stuck on choosing your photographer? Now and days pretty much everyone has picked up a camera and there are just SO many options when it comes to the type of images we see. Your wedding day isn’t just about finding someone to capture the right images, it’s about finding someone that will capture them in the right way for YOU. Someone that solidifies the memory of your special day in a way that you will cherish and love for years to come. So while there may be a million photographers for you to choose from, it’s important to find one that best suits your needs. Right now you’re probably wondering well, how do I go about finding the right photographer for me? Don’t worry because we’re about to discuss some questions you can ask your photographer that might help you narrow down your choices!

Q:    HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN IN BUSINESS AND DOING WEDDING PHOTOGRAPHY?

A:    It is always important to do a little background check so to speak and see how long your photographer has been in business for! You can inquire about the number of weddings they work a year, ask for a portfolio or full wedding gallery, and even check out their references or testimonials. This gives you the chance to make sure your photographer is reliable and matches the style you have in mind for your special day!

Q:    DO YOU HAVE A PORTFOLIO I CAN REVIEW?

A:   A must ask! Every wedding photographer should have some sort of portfolio for their potential clients to look through. This is the best way for you to determine is a photographer’s way of shooting is up to par with your expectations! Sometimes people find that a full portfolio meets their needs right off the bat, but if your one of those that is still on the fence feel free to ask your photographer for 1-2 full wedding galleries to look through.

Q:    WHAT PACKAGES DO YOU OFFER?

A:   If you’re on the hunt for your wedding photographer then you have probably already set aside a budget to stay in with each vendor. Do some research and ask about what packages and services your photographer has to offer. Some photographers have packages set in stone while others will be a bit more flexible in working with the budget you have on hand. It can never hurt to ask if your budget needs can be met, but also keep in the mind the amount of work that goes into your photographer’s job! 

Q:    DO YOU INCLUDE ENGAGEMENT SESSIONS WITH YOUR WEDDING PACKAGES?

A:   It can never hurt to inquire about an engagement session and if it is included in your photographer’s package or something you have to purchase separately. More often than not a lot of wedding photographers have at least one or two packages that will include an e-session. Sometimes you will also find a list of add-ons that can be incorporated into your package. These add-ons are items such as engagement sessions, extra hours, or second shooters that can be provided at an additional cost for your wedding day.

Q:    DO YOU OFFER PRINTS AND ALBUMS?

A:   Prints and photo albums are SUCH an important component of your wedding day! Yes it is fun to share your digital images online with everyone to see, but having tangible items hanging in your house or books that friends and family can flip through makes it even more special. Make sure to ask your photographer if they offer any printing services and if so what the cost of those items would be. 

Q: WILL YOU HAVE AN ASSISTANT SHOOTER WITH YOU?

A:  You are always welcome to inquire about another photographer coming with your lead shooter! Some photographers have built teams and already have second shooters on hand that attend weddings with them while others reach out and find shooters on a need basis. If you are looking to have an assistant shooter make sure to ask your photographer what the cost of bringing one would be!

Q:    AFTER THE WEDDING HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO SEE OUR PHOTOS?

A:    Don’t be afraid to ask about receiving your images! Although it should be made clear the turnaround process your photographer has, feel free to ask directly for that time period. Some photographers will typically give you a few week period in which they have to deliver, however others have also been known to give a specific date! 

Q:    DO YOU FOLLOW A SHOT LIST IF IT IS PROVIDED TO YOU?

A:   Maybe you’re one of those people that have dreamt of their wedding for years and are constantly saving images from Pintrest, Instagram, or other social media platforms. Don’t be afraid to share these with your photographer! Your wedding day is your day! If there are ideas that inspire you and you would love to see recreated then inquire about them with your photographer. While your photographer is going to do everything in their power to make your wedding special and unique to you, it actually can be helpful to follow some ideas they know you love! 

Q:    WHAT IS THE ORDERING PROCESS FOR MY IMAGES?

A:   While it is pretty usual to expect an online gallery now and days always ask about the process your photographer has for delivering images. Photographers will either include a certain number of images with the purchase of your package, or require you to purchase digital downloads separately. This is also applied to any print products you are interested in getting. Again, have clear communication with you’re photographer, what you expect, and the package you are purchasing!

Q:    WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT IF MY EVENT LASTS LONGER THEN EXPECTED?

A:    Always speak to your photographer about your package and the number of hours you’ve agreed upon. If you’re event goes over you will want to know exactly what the process is for your photographer to stay until all important events are captured. This may require an extra fee per hour or potentially is included in what you have already purchased! Keep an open and clear communication with all of your vendors when it comes to your wedding.

So there you have it! Some of the best 10 questions you can ask your wedding photographer as a base point! Hopefully by finding the answers to these questions you will be able to narrow down your selection and find a photographer that you can trust with your special day. Remember, always feel free to ask any questions that may come to mind and keep an open and flowing line of communication not only with your photographer, but every vendor you choose to work with!