If you’ve never hired a professional photographer before, this list is for you. It seems simple: “hi, I’ll hire you to take photos of the best day of my life” but trust us when we tell you that it’s a little more complicated than that. The best thing you can do is come armed with a list of questions before meeting any potential photographers, and this list is a great start!
1-) How long have you been a wedding photographer and how many weddings have you shot?
It may seem obvious but you want to get a sense if you’re working with someone with tons of experience or someone who’s just starting out (this will also affect their rate, so it’s important to know). You should also ask to see several examples of their work, preferably a full album from one or two weddings so you can get an idea of how they shoot and their attention to detail.
2-) What kind of packages do you offer and what are the add-ons we can potentially include?
Many wedding photographers have several packages that you can choose from that will offer a wide variety of inclusions like time, number of edits, etc. You want to make sure you’re getting the best package for your needs and, of course, budget. That said, the photographer might offer a package deal if they also shoot any engagement photos, rehearsal dinner, etc. so definitely ask about those!
3-) Do you shoot digitally? With film? Or both?
This one tricks people up sometimes. Whether or not the photog shoots digitally or with film doesn’t determine their skill set but, that said, it does alter the style of your actual photos. Ask for examples if they do both.
4-) How would you describe your working style?
We’ve all been to events where the photographer wears all black and doesn’t say a word…but we’ve also all been to events where the photographer is running around and making everyone pose constantly. Decide which method works best for you but also make sure that that particular photographer is comfortable with that working style.
5-) How long is your turnaround for photos after the wedding?
Agonizing, we know. That’s why it’s really important to make sure you get a timeline. This will help you manage expectations, as well as the photographer being accountable for completing the edits on time.
6-) Do you carry backup equipment?
It sounds silly to think about but, sadly, equipment sometimes malfunctions unexpectedly. You certainly don’t want to fall victim if the photographer’s camera suddenly breaks or doesn’t work properly. Ask if he/she will have a backup, just in case of an SOS.
7-) What is the backup plan if you are unable to shoot my wedding for any unexpected, last minute reason?
Speaking of an SOS…again, life sometimes happens. You want to know what will be the photographer’s backup plan in the case he/she has some kind of emergency or gets suddenly ill.
8 -) Can we request a specific shot list?
Of course, most photographers will happily accept a shot list but make sure you find out exactly how specific you can get with them (including specific family shots like cousin Kerry and Grandma Betty, etc.).
9-) Will you be sharing any of our photos on social media or your website?
In this day and age it’s pretty standard that almost everyone uses social media but, that said, if you’re a particularly private couple you’ll want to ask how these photos will be shared and where.
Happy Planning!
Xx The Planning Society