welcome to my journal
I always love meeting with couples to see if we’re the right fit for each other. It’s a chance to get to know one another, see how you interact as a couple, and answer any questions you might have before booking. Sometimes, couples bring a whole list of questions—maybe from their parents, a wedding website, or just things they want clarification on. Other times, they forget everything they meant to ask (which, honestly, is totally understandable with all the wedding planning chaos!).
I’m always happy to answer any and all questions because before the wedding is the time to ask! But here’s something most couples don’t realize: some of the questions floating around on wedding websites are outdated, unnecessary, or even a little awkward. Some lists include highly technical photography questions that don’t really matter unless you’re a photographer yourself. Others contain questions that can come across as a bit insulting.
So, to help you out, I’ve put together a list of the most important questions to ask when interviewing a wedding photographer. These are the ones that truly matter, show you’ve done your research, and will help you make an informed decision—so you can feel confident about who you’re hiring!
Essential Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer
1. What happens if you have an emergency and can’t make it?
This is a big one! Every photographer should have a backup plan in case of an emergency. Do they have a second shooter who can take over? A network of trusted photographers who can step in? You want to know that your wedding day will be covered no matter what.
My answer: If I’m not there, assume something truly life-altering happened. But rest assured, my second photographer is fully capable of stepping in and capturing your day seamlessly.
2. Can I review your contract before booking?
Absolutely! You should always read through the contract before signing. It outlines exactly what’s included, what’s expected, and what happens in different scenarios. A clear contract protects both you and the photographer, so don’t skip this step!
3. How long will it take to get our wedding photos back?
Every photographer has a different turnaround time, and it can vary depending on the season. Some take a few weeks, others take several months. Find out upfront so you know what to expect.
4. What does your editing process include?
This is especially important if you have specific preferences. Some photographers only do color correction and minor touch-ups, while others offer more extensive retouching. If you’re hoping for body modifications or heavy Photoshop work, ask about it beforehand—some photographers don’t offer that, or they may charge extra.
5. When is payment due, and what’s included in the package?
Know your payment schedule and exactly what you’re getting. Do you receive digital files, prints, albums, or a USB? Are there extra fees for travel or overtime? Make sure everything is clearly outlined in your contract to avoid surprises later.
6. What’s your backup plan if things don’t go as expected?
If you’re planning an outdoor wedding, what happens if it rains? What if the schedule runs behind? A great photographer can adapt, but it’s always good to know their approach to unexpected situations.
7. Can we see a full wedding gallery?
Rather than asking how many years of experience a photographer has, ask to see full wedding galleries. This gives you a true sense of their consistency, how they handle different lighting situations, and what a finished wedding looks like.
Other Key Questions to Ask
8. What should we know about lighting?
Different lighting situations affect the look of your photos. Ask your photographer about weddings they’ve shot in various conditions—midday sun, dark indoor venues, candlelit receptions, etc. They should be able to show examples and help you set realistic expectations.
9. What time should we schedule our outdoor ceremony for the best lighting?
Your photographer can help guide you on the best time for natural light. In fall and winter, the sun sets earlier, which affects outdoor photos. Planning around the light ensures the best possible images!
Questions You Shouldn’t Ask (And Why)
1. “Why should we pick you over another photographer?”
While this is a major decision, this question can put photographers in an awkward position. If you’ve already looked through their work and taken the time to meet with them, that should give you the answer. The most important thing is that you click with them—because they’ll be with you all day! If something feels off, trust your gut and keep looking.
2. “Can we choose the second shooter, or can my friend/family member be one?”
In most cases, the second photographer is hand-picked by the lead photographer because they have experience working together and can shoot in the same style. The second shooter also serves as the backup in case the primary photographer can’t continue. They’re essentially the photographer’s right-hand person, so this isn’t something couples typically get to choose.
My answer: My second shooter is someone I trust completely—someone who could step in and handle the entire wedding day if needed. They’ve either been shooting with me for years or I’ve personally trained them to match my style and approach.
Hiring a wedding photographer is a big investment, and you deserve to feel confident in your choice. By asking the right questions, you’ll not only ensure you’re making the best decision—you’ll also build a great relationship with your photographer, setting the stage for beautiful, stress-free wedding photos.
I hope this helps you in your search for the perfect wedding photographer! If you have any questions, I’m always happy to chat. 😊
