After a few minutes on Instagram or Google, you have probably realized that there are dozens of photographers in your area that shoot weddings. Since photos are one of the few physical memories that you’ll have from your wedding, choosing the right photographer is important. You want to be sure you’re choosing a professional who is within your budget, creates photos that align with your vision, is confident in their ability to capture your day, and that you trust.

Unsure what to ask? Here’s a few suggestions:

DO YOU OFFER CONSULTATION CALLS?
Consultation calls (or meetings) are a chance for you to get to know a photographer’s personality, style, and contract specifics before committing to anything. Your photographer often is with you, your partner, and your loved ones for most of your wedding day. Having someone who you trust and get along with on a personal level is important. This is also a great time to ask about package specifics, contract and payment deadlines, how they handle difficult or unexpected wedding situations, and any other burning questions that you might have.

A consultation call is a great opportunity to ask the other questions listed.

WHAT’S INCLUDED IN EACH WEDDING PACKAGE?
Each photographer has different prices and package structures for weddings. It’s important to be clear about what you will receive with your investment.

Bonus: Ask if they have a pricing or investment guide that they can send you that clearly lists all the package and add-on options.

DO YOU CHARGE TRAVEL FEES?
Wedding photographers may be local or traveling from another state for your wedding. It’s important to know how they handle travel fees (no fees, per mile charge, blanket travel fee, etc.), as these are typically billed to the client (you).

HOW MANY PHOTOS WILL I RECEIVE? HOW WILL THE PHOTOS BE DELIVERED TO ME?
Photographers structure packages differently. Some deliver a set number of photos that you choose, while others deliver all the best photos from the day. Photos may be delivered to an online gallery, mailed on a USB drive, or print only. There may also be options for photo books and other printed items per request. Again, just be sure that you know what you’re getting when you book with them!

WHEN WILL I RECEIVE MY PHOTOS?
Photo delivery varies by photographer. Be sure you know how long it may take to get your beautiful photos back, and what their plan is for communicating any changes in the timeline!

DO YOU HAVE A FULL WEDDING GALLERY THAT I CAN SEE?
Always ask for a full wedding gallery! As a wedding photographer, my social media is carefully curated to showcase my best work. Looking through a full wedding gallery will show you what your wedding album may look like (generally speaking) and offers examples of how the photographer handles different lighting situations. For example, check to see if you like how they take and edit photos during an outdoor, daytime ceremony and an indoor, evening reception.

ARE YOU LICENSED AND INSURED?
SAY IT AGAIN FOR THE PEOPLE IN THE BACK! This is so important. Make sure your photographer is legit. That means being licensed to own and operate their business. In addition, most wedding venues require vendors to carry liability insurance. Your photographer should be able to provide you a copy of their insurance upon request.

DO YOU HAVE A BACKUP PLAN?
Stuff happens. Do I need to say more? Ask your photographer what their backup plan is should equipment fail or become damaged, the location or weather changes, or if they are suddenly unable to attend for any reason.

Click here to schedule your free consultation call and discuss wedding photography packages!