Of all the vendors on your list, you will probably be spending the most time throughout the day with your photographer! It is important to keep open lines of communication, making sure any expectations, desires or concerns are communicated and understood well in advance. After all, these images will be cherished for years to come! Feeling comfortable with one another is key to not only enjoying yourself, but to get even better shots on the big day. Here’s a list of what to ask your wedding photographer.
1. What do you love most about photographing weddings?
This will help you get a glimpse into the personality of your photographer. It is vital to find someone with genuine enthusiasm and passion for the work they do. Do you feel a connection and rapport to this person?
2. What happens if an emergency should arise and you cannot photograph my wedding?
Make sure there’s a contingency plan in place!
3. What information should we send you before the wedding?
Contact lists, suggestion for shots and pairings for portraits, locations you will be getting ready, and an exact timetable of events (cake cutting, special suprises, etc) are vital to have communicated! Make sure you open dialog to hash out all the details.
4. What is the turnaround for receiving images?
Keep in mind, during peak season this may take longer than the off season. Image turnaround is a vital expectation to communicate with your photographer. Photographers shoot thousands of images of your day, and processing the work takes a huge amount of time. Be sure you’re on the same page.
5. Have you worked at my venue before, or with any of the vendors?
Though not entirely necessary to produce spectacular images, a photographer with a venue or vendor relationship can be quite a bonus! Consistent working relationships often yield consistent results.
6. If my event lasts longer, will you stay? Is there an additional charge?
Many photographers have reasonable overtime rates and policies. Be sure to ask, just in case!
7. What do your packages include?
Most photographers offer a multitude of options for different durations of time and budgets.
8. Can you put me in touch with some references to contact?
If a photographer refuses to do this - run away!
9. Do you have any recommendations to help the day run smoothly?
An experienced photographer has a wealth of knowledge and will likely be able to share insight or provide a few simple tips you may not have thought of!
10. Will you be posting our website online or social media?
Some couples prefer more privacy while others are flattered to be featured online! Whatever your wishes are for the images, make sure to ask the photographer what their plans are for the possibility of sharing the shots.