Top Five Questions to ask Wedding Photographer
Question 1: What’s your wedding photography style?
Why It’s Important: While many photographers use varying styles from journalistic to posed, candids to natural light, you’ll want to have done your homework on what style of editing, posing, and storytelling you love.
What you should be listening for–Hidden Hints: Hidden within this answer is the way photographers like to work. Oftentimes, you will hear their working styles. For example, candid photographer is like a paparazzi that tend to be hands-off. While a hands-on photographers, they tends to focus more on their clients as it is more of a structured approach. Press your photographer a little bit for examples of when they like to use each of the styles they mention and you’ll have a clearer picture of how they’ll work with you during the day.
What you can expect from me: I like to use a little of both. Major of the time, the candid moments happens on occasions such as vow exchange, “The Kiss” at the ceremony, reception, walking down the aisle and first dance, etc. However, posing occurs when there is Bride + Groom portraits, family and friends portraits. Similarly, at the engagement, I will get you into poses that allow you to interact with your fiancé so I end up with beautifully posed candid moments.
Question 2: Have you shot at my venue before? If not, how do you know you’re going to get great shots?
Why It’s Important: Knowing a venue ensures your photographer has a sense for the lighting situations, best angles, and hidden crevices of a particular location.
Hidden Hints: Photographers who really care about their clients will check out a location they haven’t photographed before weeks and a day before they begin your wedding day. Even if it’s twenty minutes before your contracted time, make sure your photographer cares about knowing your venue ahead of time.
What you can expect from me: I am here to make your day, and your life, comfortable and effortless as possible. Usually I like to learn lights, depending on time of day, this can affect where the photos. So, I’ll be sure to there early to scout the best locations to best serve you. Light factors are carefully thought out and I strategically ensure that your story is best captured. For example, indoor light in a dark hotel room while getting ready can be hard to church where the ceremony will take place. I want you to feel the absolute best about your experience so whether that means I tour the facility with you or you decide to let us scope it out on our own I will do what’s right for you. 🙂
Not sure what to ask, still?
Question 3: My future spouse and I are getting ready at different locations. How do you plan to photograph us both?
Why It’s Important: Your wedding day will go by so much faster than what you expect. Having a plan in place as to when and where you will be getting photos is important.
Hidden Hints: What kinds of plans does your photographer have in place to make sure both the you and your future husband are well represented in your wedding photos. If they have a second photographer you should know your timeline will flow since nothing will be missed.
What you can expect from us: Depending on the package you choose your photographer coverage will vary which means creating that timeline will be important. A well planned timeline will help set your mind at ease because whether you desire an associate photographer or not, I will ensure that I get as many shots while still adhering to the day.
Question 4: Can we request a specific set of shots?
Why It’s Important: You have shots that matter most to you and having a photographer who respects those wants is important.
Hidden Hints: While no photographer can, or should, guarantee that a shot will be taken, some will flat out deny your request. Look for photographers who are willing to work with you, or better yet, who have a short list they’re willing to share with you.
What you can expect from us: If you’re looking for a shot list I have one available. I also send out questionnaires during your engagements to make sure that our vision and your expectations aligned. Don’t know where to get inspiration from? I encourage you to make a Pinterest page and share it with us.
Question 5: How soon will we see our photos?
Why It’s Important: You’ll want to share your good news and sending out your Save the Date ASAP.
Hidden Hints: What is your photographer’s anticipated timeline? Does it correspond with what matters to you and your family? Better yet, will there be a preview you can share ahead of time?
What you can expect from us: A small preview of photos from your day within 24 hours so all your guests and family can relive the day immediately. Most weddings take about two months to process and oftentimes I post to Instagram and Facebook as I find some of our favorite moments. If you choose an album I will take the time to create it together with online proofs and changes first.
** After you interview your photographer be sure to check out what other couples are saying about their experience. You can find our bride reviews ***Here***
