42 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before You Hire Them

Your wedding photographer is responsible for one of the most pivotal roles of the day: documenting each moment. By enlisting a photographer to capture every aspect of your affair, from the first kiss to the first dance, you and your partner will be able to fully enjoy the festivities, not worry about getting content. The importance of your photographer extends far beyond the day itself, too—the photos that they take will serve as tangible memories of the celebration that you’ll have access to forever.

Since your photographer will be an integral part of your vendor team, it’s essential that you choose wisely—someone who you connect with both aesthetically and interpersonally. As you conduct your search, you’ll probably research your prospective photographers’ backgrounds, evaluate their portfolios, and read client testimonials to narrow down your options. But to make a final decision, an in-person or phone interview is a must. You’ll be spending a lot of time with this individual, both before and during the wedding, so in addition to loving their style, an interview will guarantee a positive experience working together.

Before you sign on the dotted line, there are countless questions to ask your wedding photographer to ensure they’ll be the perfect fit for your big day. Below, you’ll find a list of the top inquiries for your prospective vendor to answer. While some cover logistics, such as the cost of their service and their estimated delivery times, others gauge their experience level and photography approach. As you interview this expert, listening to their responses is also an opportunity to examine whether the two of you will mesh well and whether they’ll be professional, approachable, and communicative on the job.

Wondering what questions to ask your wedding photographer before hiring them? To help guide your decision, take a look at the list below.

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer About Your Big Day

These are the very first questions you'll want to ask when talking to prospective wedding photographers. Inquiring about their availability and the team members who will be on the job will help you decide whether or not you're going to move forward with them. After all, if they're booked on your wedding day or if they're shooting additional celebrations that day, the professional may not logistically work for you and your event.

Is my wedding date available?

This question is the first one you should ask your potential wedding photographer. If they're available on your wedding day, you can continue the conversation from there. But if your wedding date is already booked, you'll know to switch gears and redirect your search elsewhere.

Will you be the one shooting my wedding? If not, can I meet the photographer who will be onsite?

Some wedding photographers work as part of a collective, so the person you're interviewing may not be the one who will document your big day. Feeling aligned on the actual photographer's approach, style, and personality will determine your decision, not your connection with the interviewee.

How many other weddings will you photograph that weekend?

While there isn't a right or wrong answer to this question, the photographer's response should be one that you're comfortable with. Some photographers will only shoot one wedding per weekend, but others are willing to take on more than one event. If you're having a far-flung destination wedding and know that the photographer is already contracted for a celebration in another spot the night before, you may have concerns about whether or not they'll make it to your nuptials on time.

Will you have any assistants with you on our wedding day?

Some photographers always work with an assistant, while others use a second shooter only for large-scale events. If they'll have another helping hand onboard, having two photographers' names on your contract will likely incur an additional fee—which could make or break your decision if it exceeds your budget.

Do you often shoot weddings that have a similar size to the one we are planning?

A great wedding photographer can capture any type of celebration, but there is a difference between shooting a 75-person wedding and an affair with over 300 guests. When interviewing this person, ask if they've ever shot an event of your size. Their response will indicate whether they're a suitable addition to your vendor team and whether they'll need to bring additional photographers. Even if they haven't photographed a wedding of your size and scale, if they explain their approach with confidence, it doesn't have to be a dealbreaker.

Have you ever shot a wedding at our venue? If not, do you plan to check the venue out in advance?

It's perfectly fine if your prospective photographer hasn't documented a wedding at your venue; it's even OK if they can't check out the property before the big day—assuming you're comfortable with that, of course. If they're unfamiliar with the spot where you'll be throwing down or unable to visit it before you tie the knot, most photographers will arrive early on the wedding morning to scout the location. So, be sure to ask about their process.

Have you ever worked with our wedding planner or videographer?

As long as these vendors don't require that you work with someone of whom they approve, it doesn't matter how the photographer answers this question. However, knowing that your wedding photographer works well with other key vendors—especially the planner and videographer—is a major plus.

Question to Ask Your Wedding Photographer About Their Background and Experience

Another important place to start your interview? Asking your wedding photographer questions about their background and experience. Since you’ll probably want to hire someone who’s a veteran in the industry with a passion for their craft, these inquiries will provide this intel.

What does love and marriage mean to you?

To figure out what your photographer values (and if it aligns with your own), ask how they view love, weddings, and marriage. Their answer will also help you realize if they’re advocates of diversity and inclusion.

Are you passionate about photographing weddings? Why?

Since your photographer will be capturing so many personal moments during this once-in-a-lifetime day, you’ll want to confirm that they’re in it for the right reasons, not just the money. To understand where your photographer’s heart is, ask why they value working in the wedding industry. If you want a specific answer, you can even ask them to mention and explain their favorite aspect of the day.

What do you value most when working with couples?

This question will tell you what your prospective photographer prioritizes and how they work—and if it’s suitable for you and the type of wedding you’re throwing. For instance, if they value constant communication, but you have a demanding job that takes up most of your time, they might not be the right fit.

How long have you been shooting weddings? How many weddings have you photographed?

While there's absolutely nothing wrong with hiring new talent, you'll need to know if you're talking to a seasoned professional or someone who's just getting started in the industry, so you can prepare accordingly. This question essentially answers whether or not they're fully equipped for the job—and capable of carrying it out.

Can we see the full galleries of a few of your recent weddings?

"Yes" should always be the answer to this question. If they aren't willing to show you complete samples of their work, you won't be able to grasp the value you'll be getting. Plus, declining this request makes it seem as if they're trying to hide something from their finished galleries. While the photographer is probably sharing shots of their clients' nuptials on Instagram, they usually post only the best photos—which doesn't tell you much about the full range of their coverage, according to wedding photographer Amy Anaiz.

If the photographer agrees to send you their work, wedding photographer Kate Headley advises asking to see galleries at a similar venue as yours, such as a June wedding on a farm or a December wedding in a ballroom. She also recommends asking to see the photos of an event in the rain, so in the case of inclement weather, you'll feel assured that your portraits will still turn out well.

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer About Their Style

Your photographer has a big job ahead of them: The photos that they capture are ones you'll look back on for years to come. Ensuring that their style is in line with your vision, therefore, is key.

How would you describe your photography style? What would you compare your work to?

Again, there isn't a correct answer to look out for, but their response should resonate with you and the visual you've been imagining. When your photographer talks about their work, check to see if it reflects your expectations for your final wedding album.

How did your style originate? How is it evolving?

To build upon the aforementioned question, Headley suggests asking how their photography style came about and how it has evolved over time. This will give you an understanding of what their work represents and if they're continuously refining their craft. Essentially, it captures how serious they are about their profession and their artistic product.

Do you shoot digitally? With film? Or both?

The type of camera that the photographer uses will also set the expectation for the images you're going to receive. If you have your heart set on an album full of film photos, but the photographer only shoots digital, you might want to proceed with another candidate.

What is your photo editing style?

Another question that will help you gauge what your album will look like? How the photographer edits their shots in post-production. Ask what elements of a photo they typically adjust, such as exposure, contrast, and shadows. If the professional will be taking photos outside in harsh daylight for the ceremony and in a dimly lit room during the reception, this will let you know if the photos will look consistent, too.

How would you describe your working style?

Besides inquiring about the aesthetic style of their photos, another essential style-related ask is the way in which they work. Do you want someone who will blend into the background to capture candid moments as they happen? Or do you prefer that your photographer is more visible, taking charge to choreograph images? No matter how they respond, the photographer's answer should align with what you're looking for.

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer About Pricing and Packages

If they're available on your wedding day and you feel confident that their background and aesthetic is entirely on par with your vision, now it's time to get down to the nitty gritty. Here's what to ask as you discuss pricing and packages.

How much does your standard package cost?

Chances are, you and your partner have a price range for your prospective photographer that falls within your total wedding budget. To conclude whether their service comes at a fee that you can afford, be sure to ask how much money their standard package costs during this interview. While there are a number of factors that will influence the price, like when and how long they’ll be shooting, getting an estimate will help you conclude whether or not to hire them.

Even if the cost of their service exceeds the dollar amount you had in mind, you don't have to completely write them off, though. "Know that if the minimum is above your desired budget, there may be flexibility in bringing that rate down, but you must be willing to make concessions on deliverables and time," Anaiz points out.

What's included in your standard package? What add-ons do the more expensive packages include?

Most photographers will answer this question by giving you a one-sheet that breaks down their standard packages. For example, their baseline offering might include eight hours of coverage, two shooters, digital images, and a box of prints, whereas other more advanced packages might entail more hours of coverage on the day itself, an engagement shoot, and a wedding album. After reviewing the fact sheet, if you have any questions about what sets each package apart, feel free to ask.

Can I customize a package to fit my needs?

If you want further customization to one of the photographer's standard offerings, it doesn't hurt to ask; they might not be able to accommodate your request, but it's worth having a conversation about.

Do you include engagement photos in your packages? What about pre-wedding events like rehearsal dinners?

This will likely be outlined in the single sheet of paper that outlines their package breakdowns, but if you don't see any information about photographing other events, bring it to the professional's awareness, especially if they're priorities of yours.

How many hours are included in each package? How much do extra hours cost?

Since the number of hours varies depending on the photographer and the chosen package, be sure to get clarity on this. Coverage hours really begin when the photographer arrives, which is generally at some point during the getting-ready process. They'll take images of the couple preparing for the day and capture any detail shots, such as invitation flat lays, welcome bags, and the ceremony or reception spaces.

Do you offer a photo booth?

Some photographers will offer photo booths for an additional cost. While this service probably won't affect the vetting process (there are plenty of vendors you can hire for this), it can be nice to bundle packages when they're available.

Do you offer retouching, color adjustment, or other corrective services? Are those included or an additional charge?

Most wedding photographers will include photo edits as part of their standard package offerings, but what if you want additional changes, such as removing a guest from a photo, fixing a flyaway hair, or adjusting the color? Ask how many rounds of edits are available and what this process looks like.

Do you charge a travel fee? For what distance? What does that cover?

Most photographers have a radius outside of which they charge a travel fee. Over a certain distance, you may be required to pay for your photographer’s lodging, too.

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer About Prints and Albums

Once the wedding is over, you'll get to enjoy those beautiful photos. But before you do, make sure you have a clear understanding about deliverables before signing the contract—when you'll get your photos, if you'll receive high-res files or actual prints, and whether or not your photographer can help you make an album. The below questions will ensure you're both on the same page.

Can we order prints or albums directly from you?

Any answer is acceptable here, but if you're the type of person who wants to work with just one vendor, you'll likely prefer ordering prints and albums straight from your photographer. If they don't offer this service, ask them to recommend a person or company who does.

What type of album do you offer? Do you provide assistance selecting images and designing the album?

After you receive your photos, you'll probably want to store these visual keepsakes in an album. Instead of manually stashing each print in the sleeves, see if your photographer offers this service—both in terms of laying out the album and printing it—or if they can connect you with someone who does.

Are albums or prints included in your packages? How many pages or prints are included, and what is the turnaround time?

Your photographer's one-sheet of the different types of packages they provide will discuss whether albums and prints are included. If the information isn't there, definitely inquire about it. After all, if you're paying for an album, you want to get your money's worth.

How long after the wedding will we receive the images? How will they be delivered?

Post-production is a long process that entails choosing the top selects, doing multiple rounds of edits, and reorganizing the collection in chronological order. So, don't expect to get your photos back the same weekend or even the same week as your wedding. Most photographers deliver their images anywhere from four to 12 weeks after the big day. To set the expectation, ask about their turnaround time—and make sure you feel comfortable with it.

Will we have the rights to the images?

Generally speaking, photographers will own the copyright to the image, but most will grant rights to the couple to post, print, and share the images. Always inquire about your rights and make sure you feel good about the answer.

Will we receive the negatives and/or high-resolution digital images? Is there a fee for that?

Most photographers will share a downloadable link with high-res imagery, which you can then share and print at your leisure, but it's key to ask what their standard procedure is.

Will the images be accessible online? For how long?

In addition to prints, you'll also likely receive digital images. While interviewing this candidate, ask how long these shots will be available to access online. Regardless of their answer, to ensure safe keeping, it's a good idea to download the photos to an external hard drive as soon as you get them.

Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer About Logistics

Once you've learned they're available on your big day, you're aligned on a package, and you're comfortable with the price, it's time to put it in writing. Unsurprisingly, there are questions to ask about this part of the process, too. Here are a few to pose to your photographer.

When will we receive the contract?

You have a lot of paperwork to juggle right now, and you already know that no vendor is officially booked until you've both signed the contract. Understanding how long it takes to get this documentation in hand will help you stay organized. Not to mention, the tidbit will give you peace of mind.

How much of a deposit do you require? When is it due?

In order to enjoy your photographer's skills and services, you'll need to pay them first. During this part of the process, right before hiring them, ask how much the deposit will be, how to pay it, and when it's due.

Do you accept payments in installations?

Before signing your contract, you'll also need to ask about the full payment process. Be sure to discuss how the payment process works, the dates of when payments are due, and whether they take installments.

What is your refund or cancellation policy?

In the event that you need to postpone the big day, ask about their refund or cancellation policy. Understanding what the photographer can do if you need to change your wedding date will help you feel prepared if an unforeseen circumstance happens.

Do you have liability insurance? Does it cover your assistants, as well?

Your wedding venue might require that every vendor holds their own liability insurance policy. While you'll definitely want to check with your venue first and foremost, if this prerequisite applies to your site, you'll need to ask your photographer next.

Do you carry backup equipment?

The answer to this question should—and likely always will be—"yes." No matter what happens, you want to know that your photographer will be prepared, so if they won't be arriving with backup equipment, you may want to reconsider your plans.

What is the backup plan if you are unable to shoot my wedding for an unexpected reason?

If your photographer gets sick or injured or undergoes an unexpected personal situation before your wedding, they might have to cancel at the last minute. Most photographers will have a line in their contract that stipulates what happens if they can no longer shoot your wedding (generally, they will find an equal or greater replacement), but discussing it out loud will give you more clarity.

What will you and your assistants wear?

Most photographers will arrive in neutral, understated attire that coordinates with the aesthetic and blends in with the crowd. If there's a certain color that your wedding party is wearing, let your photographer know, so they don't get mistaken as a bridesmaid or groomsmen.

Can we request a list of specific shots we would like?

You're hiring this wedding photographer for a reason, so trust that they'll do their job well. While you'll primarily want to give this professional the autonomy and space to capture the day as they see fit, if there are any important photos you don't want to miss, like a bouquet charm with a photo of your late grandmother or a piece of fabric from your mother's wedding dress that's sewed onto yours, let your photographer know.

Will you be posting about our wedding on your website and social media? Will you be submitting our photos to magazines or blogs?

If you want your wedding to be a source of inspiration to other couples, let your photographer know that you'd love for them to post your photos online or submit your wedding to a publication. On the other hand, if you and your partner like your privacy, ask if the photographer wouldn't mind keeping your pictures off of the internet.