by: 
Searching for a wedding photographer to capture your special day? We know choosing the right person to do the job is a difficult decision. You want to make sure your photographer understands your vision and captures a story that is unique and meaningful to you! So, where do you start? Often, wedding photographers will schedule a virtual or in-person meeting with you to go over details and questions you might have. This is a perfect opportunity for you to make sure the experience will be a good fit for both of you!
To ensure you find the perfect photographer for your needs, we pulled together ten essential questions suggested by real wedding photographers!
1. What’s your backup plan for unexpected events?
Contrary to popular belief, things don’t always go our way – even on our wedding day. Plans can change due to unexpected illness, unfortunate travel delays, and God forbid the camera breaks! Photographers are human too, and it’s best to get a good understanding of what they plan to do in case of an emergency. Ask about their backup process, what strategies they have in place to offset unexpected events, should they occur. That way both you and your photographer can be on the same page to face anything that comes your way!
2. How do you like to capture a wedding?
It’s important to understand your photographer’s style and unique perspective. Do they take a fly-on-the-wall approach? Do they focus on more intimate, serious photos? Do they like to capture candid moments? You can ask to see their portfolio of past weddings and get a collected visual of their work. It’s also important to have a conversation about what the photographer thinks about their style – what they look for when capturing each unique couple. It’s not only fun to get into the photographer’s creative mind, but also a good chance for you to see if their vision matches yours!
3. What is your turnaround time?
“When can we get our photos?”… I’m sure that’s a question every photographer gets, but it’s an important question to ask. It’s not only a good question to ask for you (we all know you can’t wait to post on your social media!), but it’s also a good indication of your photographer’s time management and organizational skills. The more experience a photographer has, the more likely they can give you an accurate timeline of when your photos will be ready for pick-up! It’s also an opportunity for you and your photographer to have clear communication and set the expectation early!
4. What inspired you to become a wedding photographer?
Beyond the technical aspects of photography, understanding the personal journey that led your photographer to specialize in capturing weddings can deepen your connection. Asking about their inspiration and passion allows you to glimpse into their story and discover what fuels their creativity. It's a chance to form a meaningful connection and get to know the person who will capture the most spectacular moment of your life!
Image courtesy of Hannah Kristine Photography
5. How involved are you during the photography process on the wedding day?
Understanding the level of involvement your photographer has during the wedding day is crucial for ensuring your comfort and satisfaction. Ask about their approach – are they more hands-on, guiding and directing poses, or do they prefer a more documentary style, capturing moments as they naturally unfold? Clarifying this aspect helps set expectations and ensures that the photography style aligns with your preferences.
6. How do you handle family dynamics during group shots?
Family dynamics can be complex, and orchestrating group shots can sometimes be a delicate task (to say the least). Inquiring about how your photographer manages family dynamics during group photos can help you anticipate any potential challenges. A skilled photographer should have strategies for creating a comfortable and efficient atmosphere to capture those important family moments.
7. What’s your favorite wedding memory or most unique shoot experience?
Photographers are storytellers capturing your special day, and they often have fascinating tales to share! Asking about their favorite wedding memory or most unique shoot experience not only adds a personal touch to the conversation but also gives you insight into their passion for their craft. It’s a chance to connect on a more personal level and see if their enthusiasm aligns with the moments you for your future wedding album.
8. What's included in your wedding photography package?
Getting clarity on what's included in the photography package is crucial for avoiding any surprises later on. Ask about the number of hours of coverage, the types of shots included (e.g., ceremony, reception, candid moments), and whether any additional services or products are offered. This ensures both parties are on the same page regarding expectations and deliverables.
9. Do you travel for destination weddings, and what is your approach to planning for a destination event?
Destination weddings often involve unique logistics, and it's crucial to know if your photographer is experienced in handling them. Ask if they are willing to travel for destination weddings and inquire about their approach to planning for events in different locations. You can then discuss any additional costs, travel arrangements, and make sure they are prepared to capture your dream destination wedding. But let’s be honest, who doesn’t love an excuse to travel!
10. What do you love most about being a wedding photographer?
Knowing what lights up your photographer can give you glimpse into what your work with them will look like. It not only gives you a sneak peak into their personality but also the overall vibe you could experience with them. If a photographer adores what they do, they are sure to make your wedding photos incredible! They can also elevate your experience to help you enjoy every moment.
Image courtesy of Hannah Kristine Photography
We hope these questions will help you feel confident when selecting a wedding photographer—someone you can work with and whose style aligns with your vision! Remember, it's not just about finding a skilled professional; it's about connecting with someone who shares your excitement and understands the unique essence of your love story!
Special thank you to our phenomenal wedding photographers Hannah and Emily for giving us some great insights!
You can follow them on Instagram
