It is time to check wedding photography off the list. But, what should you be asking or talking to potential photographers about to make sure you are choosing the right person.
This article came about due to how many posts I have seen recently on social media regarding bad wedding photographers. And brides coming out with a bad experience because of it. So let’s get into it.
Once you book your venue it is time to book your wedding photographer. Wedding photography needs to be secured 9-12 months, at minimum, from your wedding date.
*Note: These questions may note weed out everyone but they will tell you some important need to knows.*
Questions to ask when booking wedding photography
Is your date available? (A given for sure. But let’s start off easy. You will also know this when you get a response from the photographers response from the contact form you sent.)
How long have they been shooting? (experience especially when shooting weddings in huge.)
Can you view a full gallery? (As photographers our websites consist of our favorite photos. A highlight reel so to speak. By viewing a full gallery you are able to see what a whole day looks like and how different lighting situations look.)
Do they use a contract? (If they don’t use a contract use somebody else. Contracts are there to protect both parties and if one isn’t available to sign stating exactly what your getting it is a huge red flag.)
What is their turnaround time?
Will a sneak peek be available?
Are they full service or are only digitals provided? (Depending on what you’re hoping for this is a great question to ask.)
What happens if something comes up and they can no longer shoot your wedding? (You want to know you won’t be without a photographer the day of your wedding if something happens.)
Are there any fees if you need to move your date?
Are payment plans available?
How do you reserve your date?
Their client experience and process. (Will they help you throughout the wedding planning process with vendor recommendations, advice to prepare for your photos, etc.)
What you don’t need to ask about
Pricing: After all you initial questions are answered you photographer will discuss the packages and pricing options available. We understand this is one of the topics you are most interested in discussing. But first, we both need to know we make a good match. We promise we are not trying to waste your time. Choosing a wedding photographer is about so much more then the cost.
If they have shot at your specific venue: An experienced wedding photographer will be able to handle any situation regarding venues they aren’t familiar with. They typically will do their research before showing up the day of your wedding.
What’s included: This will be discussed when covering the packages available. Also if they are super awesome they will send you their pricing sheet before your meeting so you can have an idea of what package you are most interested in.
By the end of your meeting you should know if you and the photographer are a good fit and if you want to move forward with the booking process. They key is to know that you are comfortable with them and can trust them to fulfill their promise to you.
If this has helped you in your wedding planning process even just a little bit I would love to hear from you in the comments below! And if there are any other questions you can think of let me know so they can be added to the list!
Elizabeth Kane Photography is a luxury wedding and lifestyle photographer currently scheduling 2023-2024 weddings in Joshua Tree, Palm Springs, Temecula, San Diego, Orange County, and the surrounding areas. If you are currently planning your wedding connect with me though the Contact Page for more information on packages and pricing.
