Questions to Ask a Wedding Photographer

Will the person you are meeting with be taking the photos at your wedding?

If not, you should ask to meet the person who will be, and use these questions to ask a wedding photographer.

Are they a member of any associations or groups specific to the industry?

If the photographer is a member of an association, he is networking with other professionals and is most likely up to date with current trends and styles of photography. Members also have access to continuing education and other resources that non-members do not have.

What styles do they specialize in? Do they have any ideas for creative shots?

You want to make sure the photographer is comfortable shooting the style you prefer. Communicate what style you want and ask about any special ideas they may have had success with. To help you decide what style is right for you, learn about the different styles of photography: Traditional Style Wedding Photography, Photojournalism, Fine Art and Fashion Style Wedding Photography

What type of camera will the photographer use?

You will get a sense about the photographers knowledge and experience.

Does the photographer use an assistant? Is there an extra charge for this?

Usually if an assistant who knows and understands wedding photography is there, it will make your photographers job faster and easier.

Will there be backup equipment available? And what happens if the photographer is ill?

You want to be sure the photographer is prepared in case of an emergency. Make sure your wedding photographer has adequate backup equipment of the same quality. Also, you want to know the backup photographer is someone you would want to photograph your wedding.

Can other people take photos while the photographer is taking your formal photos?

Some photographers will not allow others to take photos at the same time they are. The other cameras flash may effect the photographers photos or may distract the people in the photo to look another way. The answer to this question may be important to you if you want others to freely shoot photos during your formal session.

Have they worked at your event location before? How did it work out?

Lighting issues and restrictions on using flash may come up as a surprise once you are at your event location (especially in ceremony locations). If your photographer checks out the location beforehand, they will be prepared for these situations.

Should your event last longer than scheduled, will they stay? Extra charge?

Sometimes the day can last longer than expected, and if so, is the photographer willing to stay and at what cost to you?

How many photos come in each package? What is the breakdown per photo?

You should have an idea of how many photos you want and what you are getting with the package.

What is the cost of their service and what does that include exactly.

Photographers come in all styles, skills and service levels. Learn more about how much a photographer should cost.

What types of photos will be taken (B/W, Color, Antiques, etc..)?

You should know what type you want and if the photographer is willing to take more of what you want.

Will they accept a list from you for specific photos to be taken?

Make sure the photographer is willing to accept a list of your must haves! Learn more about must have wedding photos.

What attire will they and their assistants wear?

You want to make sure they will look professional!

How long after the event will the proofs and final results be ready?

This could vary drastically, 2 weeks, 2 months, 6 months ,etc.

What type and how much assistance will they provide in planning your album?

It is nice to have a professional assist you in planning your album, it can be a bit overwhelming if you are not sure what you want.
Learn the differences between a Matted album and a Flush mount album.

Will they give you the negatives and copyrights to your photos or is there an extra charge to release them to you?

Photographers have the rights to their photographs and may not want to give up the negatives or digital full resolution files. It may be an added cost to the contract.

Do they have liability insurance?

You want to know if the photographer carries insurance to cover the cost if something goes terribly wrong.