Searching for a wedding photographer can be a daunting task. You spend more time on your wedding day with your photographer than you will with your partner! Isn’t that crazy to think about? It is so important that you find a photographer that you vibe with. Here are 6 questions to ask as you’re searching for your photographer.
1. What does the booking process look like?
When you’re looking for a wedding photographer (or any wedding vendor!), it’s important to know what to expect throughout the whole process, but especially while booking. Here are some questions that you’ll want to keep in mind regarding the booking process:
Do you require a contract to be signed?
Pro tip: Professional vendors are always going to have a contract for you to sign! This protects YOU and the vendor.
How much is the retainer?
When can we expect to receive our photos?
When is the final payment due?
2. How would you describe your photography style?
You might be able to answer this question as you’re browsing a photographer’s portfolio and looking at their website, but I think this is a great question to ask!
It is important that your photographer’s method of capturing your day aligns with what you’re looking for. There are photographers that take a more candid and natural approach. Others may have a more editorial approach with many posed photos.
I would describe my photography style to be very organic. I want to capture moments as they happen, organically. This means lots of candids and movement in your photos.
3. Is an engagement session included in our package?
When looking for a wedding photographer, take a look at their wedding day packages and see if an engagement session is included. You can typically add an engagement session to your selected package, but it is an extra bonus if one is already included!
I personally include engagement sessions in all of my packages because 1) it allows us to get to know each other better, 2) you can get comfortable in front of the camera, 3) you can use your photos for Save The Dates or for a guest book album, and 4) they’re SO much fun! (And everyone deserves fun photos with their boo)
4. Do you provide any guidance throughout the planning process?
This is a big one! For a lot of couples, this is the first time you’ve ever had to plan a wedding.
You’ll hear lots of new words and phrases, like “first look” and “second shooter”, you’ll hear a lot about what you “should do” and what you “shouldn’t do”. Having knowledgeable wedding vendors that help guide you through the process is so valuable.
I tell every single one of my couples that I do not want to be “just another vendor” that you book and never hear from again. I am a resource that you can use alllll throughout the planning process, whether it is photography related or not.
5. Are you insured?
This is one of those questions that sounds super boring, but it is actually very important! Some venues require all vendors to provide proof of insurance before your wedding day. Your venue should tell you right away if this is a requirement so you have the time to request it from your other vendors. (Pro tip: this is also something your wedding planner can assist you with!)
Professional wedding photographers should definitely have insurance, but it never hurts to ask just in case. It is better to be safe than sorry!
This is something you want to discuss with your other vendors if your venue requires proof of insurance.
6. Do you offer albums or prints?
Working with a professional photographer means you could also have access to professionally printed prints, canvases, and albums. (And yes, trust me, there is a huge difference between a professional printer and prints from CVS!) If this is important to you (or your family), this is a great question to ask your photographer.
I offer professional prints and albums because your photos deserve to live outside of your phone. Heirloom albums are items than will be passed on for generations. Imagine your grandchildren being able to look through your wedding album!
If you found this helpful, head on over to my page to learn more about what I can offer you on your wedding day!
