10 Questions You Must Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking

10 Questions You Must Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking

Choosing a wedding photographer is a significant decision in the wedding planning process. Your photographer will capture moments that you'll cherish forever, so it's essential to select someone whose style aligns with your vision and who you trust to document your day. Here are ten critical questions to ask your potential wedding photographer before signing a contract.

1. How do you direct your clients?

Different photographers have different styles and different skillsets—some may specialize in candid with some light direction, some are experts in creating natural light where there is none, some only shoot available light, while others are experts in natural and fashion/editorial posing. Understanding the style of the photographer will help you decide if they can match the aesthetic you're envisioning for your wedding photos.

2. Can I See 5 Full Wedding Galleries?

While portfolios, highlights, and instagrams give you an idea of a photographer’s best shots, seeing 5-FULL wedding galleries allows you to better understand how they capture the entire scope of a wedding day—from the preparations to the ceremony and the reception, romantics, details. You should see at least 1,000 images per gallery. That way the photographer doesn’t just pick and choose the best shots to show you. It will also manage your expectations for the final product as well.

3. What's Included in Your Standard Package? What Add-Ons Are Available?

Knowing exactly what you’re getting in your package helps you understand if there are any additional costs you need to consider. Ask about the number of hours included, number of photographers, special sessions like engagement shoots, and what kind of post-production they offer.

4. How Do You Handle Difficult Lighting Situations?

Whether your wedding is at night, in a dimly lit venue, or outdoors at midday, ask how they manage different lighting scenarios to ensure high-quality photos throughout the event. You can tell your photographer you prefer natural lighting, (no flash or video lights), however many times in the reception this may or may not give you the result you are looking for. You can see how they shoot receptions by looking at 5 full weddings.

5. Have You Ever Shot a Wedding at My Venue Before?

If they have previously worked at your venue, they may know the best locations for shots and how to handle any peculiarities of the space. A really good photographer can shoot at any location without previously seeing it. They look for the best light and backgrounds. At Mood, we will arrive early to walk the venue the day of the event and plan out our shots for the day. Most photographers will charge to do a walk through however walkthroughs are not usually necessary as photographers choose locations based on lighting and that changes throughout the day.

6. What Is Your Plan if You're Unable to Shoot My Wedding?

It’s crucial to have a backup plan. Ask if there is a contingency plan in case they become unavailable due to an emergency.

7. How Long After the Wedding Will I Receive the Photos?

Knowing when you'll receive your photos helps manage expectations and ensures you’re not left wondering months after the wedding. Mood Photo & Video usually provides images in 2-3 weeks, standard with most photographers is 1-month, will anything longer is unusual.

8. What Rights Do I Have to the Digital Prints?

Most photographers retain ownership rights to the images and may charge for high-resolution downloads. Understand what rights you have over your photos, particularly if you want to print them independently or share them on social media.

9. How Do You Coordinate With Other Vendors?

Your photographer will need to work closely with other vendors, particularly videographers and the event coordinator. Ask about their experience working with other teams to ensure a smooth day.

10. Can I Provide a List of Specific Shots I Would Like?

If you have specific ideas or must-have shots, discuss how open the photographer is to following a shot list. It's essential that they’re willing to accommodate your needs while also bringing their professional expertise to the table. Keep in mind you are hiring an artist and they have their own way of doing things. Shot requests that all photographers value are the following: we want to shoot here, we want an all-cousin shot, can we replicate these specific shots, can you shoot the inside of the rings. Make no assumptions, go into to detail with what exactly is important to you and make sure that is communicated with the photography team prior and during the wedding.

Conclusion:

Asking these questions will give you a clearer picture of what to expect from your wedding photographer and help you make an informed decision. Remember, the right photographer will not only take stunning photos but also enhance your overall wedding experience by being a positive and calming presence on your big day. Be thorough in your interview process and choose someone who feels like the right fit for both you and your celebration.