Must-Ask Questions for Your Wedding Photographer

Questions to ask your photographer

December 6, 2024  |  Wedding Planning, Wedding Planning Checklist, Wedding Planning Tips
Editorial Wedding Photo at Hotel Covington
Hotel Covington

The Basics

  1. Is my date available? How far ahead should I book?
    For popular seasons like May, June, September, and October, 12-18 months in advance is ideal. Often for off peak days 6-12 months in advance is sufficient.
  2. How many weddings have you photographed professionally?
    The fail rate of photographer in the first three years is 75%. Look for someone who has photographed for 5+ years and at least 50 weddings.
  3. What do you love about photographing weddings?
    Creative photography is a given. You want an amazing experience and storytelling that comes from a photographer passionate about you, your day and the special moments they capture.
  4. Are you a full-time photographer?
    Everyone has to start somewhere. However, full time photographers tend to be more reliable, responsive, and guide you with their experience and professionalism.
  5. Have you shot at my venue? Any challenges?
    Experience at your venue is nice, but a skilled photographer is prepared for all lighting and weather scenarios.
  6. Do you have insurance?
    Insurance is often required by venues and shows professionalism.
  7. Can I see reviews or references?
    Professionals would never give a reference that isn't glowing. You will get a better sense by looking at reviews on Google, The Knot, Zola etc. Check reviews for consistency, response tone, and years in business.
  8. Have you worked with my Planner, Coordinator, Venue, Church?
    Coordination matters. A good team will make your day effortless and stress free. A photographer that understands the lighting and rules in the church is critical. A strong video/photo team will compliment each other.
Dayton Hindu Temple Indian Wedding
Dayton Hindu Temple

Packages & Payments

  1. What’s included in your package?
    Make sure everything you need is included:
    Enough hours to fully capture your day (typically 7-10)
    Second shooter if desired
    How many edited files
    How many High-Resolution files
    Are the files watermarked?
    Print Release
    Additional products such as albums and prints.
  2. Can I review a contract and quote?
    Contracts should be clear and transparent. If it's hard to read, get clarification. They are generally designed to protect the vendor, not you.
  3. Is sales tax included?
    In Ohio, photography is deemed a service with the intent to sell products. Sales tax must be itemized as a separate amount.
  4. What’s your payment schedule?
    Most will require at least a 25% deposit, with a payment plan to follow. Be aware of the forms of payment they accept.
  5. What’s your overtime rate?
    Be prepared for overtime fees if your event runs long. Or find a photographer who offers an all-day package.
  6. Is the reservation fee refundable?
    Rarely are reservation fees refundable, but some offer credits for rescheduling.
Cincinnati Museum Center Wedding Photographer
Cincinnati Museum Center

On Your Wedding Day

  1. What if I’m not photogenic?
    You may not realize it, but you are photogenic! Every person has photogenic qualities. An experienced photographer will find the right angles, lighting, and posing direction to show you at your best!
  2. When do I meet my photographer?
    It's important to have a report with your photographer early in the process. Ideally, you will have already worked with them at the engagement session or at the very least several months before your wedding.
  3. Will you photograph other events that day?
    This is an absolute no! Your day should be their entire focus.
  4. What’s your backup plan?
    There should be a pre-arranged replacement with a similar style and quality. Each photographer should also have multiple cameras, lenses, flashes, and lights.
  5. How do you handle low-light situations?
    Natural light and on-camera flash are not ideal in low-light situations. Make sure your photographer is familiar with off-camera lighting and can show you photos in low-light settings.
  6. Can guests take photos?
    Your guests shouldn't interfere with or slow down your photographer, but many guests like having photos on their phones as well. So it's good to know if it's allowed.
  7. What will you wear?
    Wedding attire has changed over the years. Vendors should look like they belong at your wedding but blend into the background. 
  8. How will your photographer interact with family and guests?
    Your photographer will have more interaction with your family and friends than any other vendor. You want to ensure they are unobtrusive, friendly, and accommodating.
Transept Wedding Photographer Cincinnati
Transept

Photography Style & Approach

  1. What sets your work apart
    Look for unique style, personal connection, or innovative techniques.
  2. How would you describe your photography style?
    Ensure it aligns with your vision (candid, editorial, traditional, dramatic, etc.).
  3. What’s your editing style?
    It's easy to fall in love with trendy effects, but by their nature, they will date your photos. Don't be afraid to use them, but ensure you also have a clean, timeless true-to-color version of all your photos.
  4. Can I see full galleries?
    A photographer should be willing to show you a full gallery instead of just the best of the best. Even seeing 50+ photos is more representative than a few of the best photos from each wedding.
  5. Have you handled unhappy clients? How?
    All pros face challenges. Look for problem-solving and care in reviews.
Black and White Wedding Photography

Wedding Planning

  1. Do you help with the timeline?
    Your photographer should write the timeline according to your day with cushion time built in for those unexpected surprises! They should also direct the timeline on your wedding day.
  2. Do you include a second shooter?
    Clarify their role. They should add value beyond time-saving or different angles. Adding an hour or two to the package can have the same effect as a second photographer. Different angles can be accomplished by the photographer's positioning and movement. 
  3. Will we have planning meetings?
    All of your day of vendors should have a planning meeting to understand the unique characteristics and vision for your day. 
  4. Do we need to provide a shot list?
    An experienced photographer should provide a shot list or customize one for you. They will guide you through family photos while capturing everything naturally.

 

 

Manor House Carriage House
Manor House

Photo Delivery

  1. How long until I get my photos?
    Delivery times vary but 6–8 weeks is typical for edited galleries.
  2. Do you provide sneak peeks?
    Many photographers offer a few highlights for social media within a week.
  3. How many photos will we get?
    Expect 500–1,000 fully edited, unique images from a full wedding day.
  4. Can we print photos ourselves?
    Check if the package includes high-res files and print release rights.
  5. Are the files high resolution and edited?
    High-res, fully edited files are standard with professional packages.
  6. Will I receive raw files?
    The term Raw File does not mean without editing effects. It is a type of file that requires special software that photographers use to edit. What most people want to know is:
    Do I receive all our photos or a limited number?
    Do we receive a copy of our photos that doesn't have filters or effects?

 

Editorial Wedding Photo at Hotel Covington
Hotel Covington

The Basics

  1. Is my date available? How far ahead should I book?
    For popular seasons like May, June, September, and October, 12-18 months in advance is ideal. Often for off peak days 6-12 months in advance is sufficient.
  2. How many weddings have you photographed professionally?
    The fail rate of photographer in the first three years is 75%. Look for someone who has photographed for 5+ years and at least 50 weddings.
  3. What do you love about photographing weddings?
    Creative photography is a given. You want an amazing experience and storytelling that comes from a photographer passionate about you, your day and the special moments they capture.
  4. Are you a full-time photographer?
    Everyone has to start somewhere. However, full time photographers tend to be more reliable, responsive, and guide you with their experience and professionalism.
  5. Have you shot at my venue? Any challenges?
    Experience at your venue is nice, but a skilled photographer is prepared for all lighting and weather scenarios.
  6. Do you have insurance?
    Insurance is often required by venues and shows professionalism.
  7. Can I see reviews or references?
    Professionals would never give a reference that isn't glowing. You will get a better sense by looking at reviews on Google, The Knot, Zola etc. Check reviews for consistency, response tone, and years in business.
  8. Have you worked with my Planner, Coordinator, Venue, Church?
    Coordination matters. A good team will make your day effortless and stress free. A photographer that understands the lighting and rules in the church is critical. A strong video/photo team will compliment each other.
Dayton Hindu Temple Indian Wedding
Dayton Hindu Temple

Packages & Payments

  1. What’s included in your package?
    Make sure everything you need is included:
    Enough hours to fully capture your day (typically 7-10)
    Second shooter if desired
    How many edited files
    How many High-Resolution files
    Are the files watermarked?
    Print Release
    Additional products such as albums and prints.
  2. Can I review a contract and quote?
    Contracts should be clear and transparent. If it's hard to read, get clarification. They are generally designed to protect the vendor, not you.
  3. Is sales tax included?
    In Ohio, photography is deemed a service with the intent to sell products. Sales tax must be itemized as a separate amount.
  4. What’s your payment schedule?
    Most will require at least a 25% deposit, with a payment plan to follow. Be aware of the forms of payment they accept.
  5. What’s your overtime rate?
    Be prepared for overtime fees if your event runs long. Or find a photographer who offers an all-day package.
  6. Is the reservation fee refundable?
    Rarely are reservation fees refundable, but some offer credits for rescheduling.
Cincinnati Museum Center Wedding Photographer
Cincinnati Museum Center

On Your Wedding Day

  1. What if I’m not photogenic?
    You may not realize it, but you are photogenic! Every person has photogenic qualities. An experienced photographer will find the right angles, lighting, and posing direction to show you at your best!
  2. When do I meet my photographer?
    It's important to have a report with your photographer early in the process. Ideally, you will have already worked with them at the engagement session or at the very least several months before your wedding.
  3. Will you photograph other events that day?
    This is an absolute no! Your day should be their entire focus.
  4. What’s your backup plan?
    There should be a pre-arranged replacement with a similar style and quality. Each photographer should also have multiple cameras, lenses, flashes, and lights.
  5. How do you handle low-light situations?
    Natural light and on-camera flash are not ideal in low-light situations. Make sure your photographer is familiar with off-camera lighting and can show you photos in low-light settings.
  6. Can guests take photos?
    Your guests shouldn't interfere with or slow down your photographer, but many guests like having photos on their phones as well. So it's good to know if it's allowed.
  7. What will you wear?
    Wedding attire has changed over the years. Vendors should look like they belong at your wedding but blend into the background. 
  8. How will your photographer interact with family and guests?
    Your photographer will have more interaction with your family and friends than any other vendor. You want to ensure they are unobtrusive, friendly, and accommodating.
Transept Wedding Photographer Cincinnati
Transept

Photography Style & Approach

  1. What sets your work apart
    Look for unique style, personal connection, or innovative techniques.
  2. How would you describe your photography style?
    Ensure it aligns with your vision (candid, editorial, traditional, dramatic, etc.).
  3. What’s your editing style?
    It's easy to fall in love with trendy effects, but by their nature, they will date your photos. Don't be afraid to use them, but ensure you also have a clean, timeless true-to-color version of all your photos.
  4. Can I see full galleries?
    A photographer should be willing to show you a full gallery instead of just the best of the best. Even seeing 50+ photos is more representative than a few of the best photos from each wedding.
  5. Have you handled unhappy clients? How?
    All pros face challenges. Look for problem-solving and care in reviews.
Black and White Wedding Photography

Wedding Planning

  1. Do you help with the timeline?
    Your photographer should write the timeline according to your day with cushion time built in for those unexpected surprises! They should also direct the timeline on your wedding day.
  2. Do you include a second shooter?
    Clarify their role. They should add value beyond time-saving or different angles. Adding an hour or two to the package can have the same effect as a second photographer. Different angles can be accomplished by the photographer's positioning and movement. 
  3. Will we have planning meetings?
    All of your day of vendors should have a planning meeting to understand the unique characteristics and vision for your day. 
  4. Do we need to provide a shot list?
    An experienced photographer should provide a shot list or customize one for you. They will guide you through family photos while capturing everything naturally.

 

 

Manor House Carriage House
Manor House

Photo Delivery

  1. How long until I get my photos?
    Delivery times vary but 6–8 weeks is typical for edited galleries.
  2. Do you provide sneak peeks?
    Many photographers offer a few highlights for social media within a week.
  3. How many photos will we get?
    Expect 500–1,000 fully edited, unique images from a full wedding day.
  4. Can we print photos ourselves?
    Check if the package includes high-res files and print release rights.
  5. Are the files high resolution and edited?
    High-res, fully edited files are standard with professional packages.
  6. Will I receive raw files?
    The term Raw File does not mean without editing effects. It is a type of file that requires special software that photographers use to edit. What most people want to know is:
    Do I receive all our photos or a limited number?
    Do we receive a copy of our photos that doesn't have filters or effects?