Questions (and Answers) for Your Wedding Photographer
What To Ask Your Wedding Photographer: A blog to help future brides understand the ins-and-outs of hiring a wedding photographer. Written by a photographer and discusses real life wedding photography scenarios that were asked by her clients.
1. How long have you been a professional wedding photographer?
Hiring a wedding photographer with less experience is not necessarily a deal-breaker, but it is something to consider when you're making your final decision. If they have less experience but have shot a wedding at your wedding venue before, consider this a bonus, though most experienced photographers can and will get to the venue early to scope it out without any issues. This is also an excellent opportunity to ask for testimonials from past clients. The average cost for an wedding photographer in Maryland for an 8 hour event (depending on services offered including engagement sessions and second shooters) is between $2,000-$3,000.
2. How would you describe your wedding photography style?
A wedding photographer can be skilled and produce high-quality work, but if their style doesn't match your wedding vision, you should keep looking. In addition to checking out their website and social media accounts, have them describe their photography style to you to ensure it's a good fit. You may not use the same terms that they use, so you may want to ask questions about how they will structure the day. For example, are they more introverted and blend in to document the day, or are they more about taking charge and setting up advanced lighting to build scenes?
3. What is your photo editing style?
The wedding photographer's editing style will also be a factor in the final product of your wedding photos. Take a look at their social media and website to see if their style is bright, timeless or moody. If you're interested in additional photo editing services like color correcting or retouching, this is a good time to ask about them.
4. Can we see a full wedding gallery?
When it comes to choosing a wedding photographer, it's important to take a look at their past work. This will give you a better idea of what to expect on your big day. Ask to see a full wedding gallery, and make sure to check out the photographer's experience and client testimonials.
5. What is it like to work with you on the day of the wedding?
The wedding photographer is one of the most important vendors for your wedding. They will be with you every step of the way, and you want to make sure that you get along with them. I offer an engagement session for this reason, and I am also available to meet with you beforehand.
When considering a larger company, it is also important to ask when you might get to talk to the photographer before the wedding. Many contractors have their photographers only reach out a few days before the wedding, whereas working with a private professional gives you the opportunity to get advice and guidance throughout the entire process.
6. Can we request specific shots?
As you've been planning your wedding, chances are you've come across Pinterest boards full of inspiring photos that perfectly capture your desired photography style. If you'd like to recreate some of those images on your big day, ask if this is something the wedding photographer is open to delivering. Most photographers will let you know that it's best to keep one or two must-have ideas in mind, but recreating an entire Pinterest board is not only too much for us to remember, but it also impacts our artistic integrity.
8. What do your wedding packages include?
When it comes to your wedding photography, it's important to talk about packages and pricing. Most photographers will offer different packages that include a certain number of hours, engagement photos, and/or a second photographer. Make sure you clarify what is included in the quoted price, and what additional fees may apply for things like travel costs, overtime hours, or shooting other pre-wedding events like the rehearsal dinner. If the photographer works with a team (e.g., an assistant or second shooter), double-check who will be shooting your wedding as part of the package.
9. When will we receive our wedding photos?
After your wedding, you'll want to see your wedding photos as soon as possible. However, it's important to know that your photographer will need some time to edit the photos before sending them to you. They will also ask for additional details about the images, such as how they'll be delivered (high-resolution, un-watermarked, etc.) and if they'll share teasers or sneak peeks shortly after the big day.
10. What are the next steps?
The last question you need to ask your potential wedding photographer is about what the next steps are in order to officially book them for your big day. This will usually include giving them a deposit, signing a contract and going over other logistical details, such as refund and cancellation policies, payment methods and liability insurance. Knowing this information in advance will help you plan better and avoid any stressful surprises down the road.
