“Photography is the only tangible thing you’ll have after your wedding day, so it’s worth the investment. Hiring an experienced, dedicated, creative, and trustworthy photographer is one of the best decisions you can make for your celebration,” shares photographer Kim Hymes.
If you are on the stage when you narrow down your options to a few wedding professionals whose aesthetic and work you love, take the time to arrange a call, video chat, or, even better, an in-person meeting. It’s essential to come prepared with questions. “Asking your wedding photographer questions that are meaningful will translate into a great working partnership,” says photographer Amelie Black. “I want couples to quickly and easily get to the heart of it when talking with photographers. Intentional questions focusing more on approach and clear communication can help cut through the noise and make sure you’re in sync for the big day,” adds Chaise Helaine Tinsley, a wedding and lifestyle photographer behind Helaine.
During your discovery call, note whether you trust them based on what they share and how they make you feel—do they make you feel safe, relaxed, and taken care of? If the answer is yes, that’s a green light! Below, you’ll find a list of essential questions to ask photographers before making your decision.
Photo: Rachel Santos, Stas Moiseev
In this article:
Photo: Emoments Weddings
About the Wedding Day
These are some of the first questions to ask when meeting with potential wedding photographers. Since they’ll be by your side throughout your entire wedding day, it’s important to understand their approach, check their availability, and see how they plan to capture all the special moments seamlessly.
Are you available on my wedding date?
Availability is the first box to check. If the photographer isn’t available, you’ll need to look elsewhere or discuss backup options with them. It’s also helpful to check their schedule around your big day. If they have another event the day before, you might want to ensure they’ll arrive at your wedding on time and ready to go.
Will you be the one shooting our wedding?
Some larger studios have multiple photographers, so it’s important to confirm if the person you’re speaking with will shoot your wedding. You want to make sure you’re comfortable with whoever will be behind the lens on your big day. Melbourne-based photographer Neiyo also says, “it’s important that you meet your photographer before the actual day as you will spend the most time with them.”
Will you have an assistant or a second photographer with you?
Having an additional photographer can ensure that no important moments are missed, especially if your wedding is large or spread across multiple locations. Photographer Kim Hymes explains: “For me, having a second photographer is non-negotiable. They offer extra coverage, capturing different angles, guest reactions, details, and moments like cocktail hour. A second shooter ensures your entire love story is told in full. Plus, there’s peace of mind in having someone trusted on hand in case of an emergency. As a wedding photographer, risk avoidance and planning for the unexpected is key to ensuring clients don’t face disruptions on their big day.”
What will you and your assistants wear on the wedding day?
Photographers and their teams typically wear neutral attire to look professional and unobtrusive while blending in with the event’s atmosphere. Most are open to coordinating their outfits to match the vibe of your wedding—whether it’s formal, semi-formal, or casual. Just be straightforward and give them a heads-up so there aren’t any surprises.
What is your typical schedule for a wedding day?
Ask them how they usually structure their day and when they begin and end their coverage. “My best advice is to chat through a timeline with a prospective photographer to get a sense of how they work and how they will respect and collaborate on your vision and ideas,” suggests wedding photographer Emily Dilcherd of Elle Studios. Neiyo adds that a well-organized photographer will create a relaxed schedule that is not too rushed. For more insights on crafting the perfect wedding photography timeline, check out our earlier discussion with Anna Roussos, one of the top wedding photographers in Europe.
Have you ever shot at our venue?
Familiarity with your venue can be helpful since it allows the photographer to know the best photo spots and navigate the space more efficiently. However, it’s not essential. “It sometimes feels comforting to know that your photographer has shot at your wedding venue, but it is not necessary to find your perfect fit,” says Californian photographer Amelie Black. “There are so many venues, so even if your photographer is local, they are unlikely to have shot at your venue. What really matters is finding a photographer whose style and vibe align with yours.” Lauren Fair, a top wedding photographer, agrees: “Don’t worry if your photographer hasn’t shot at your venue before. A great artist will arrive early and scout the location. For destination and luxury weddings, working in new venues is the norm.” Neiyo adds that a new location can spark fresh creativity, making your wedding even more unique.
Have you ever worked with other vendors, like our planner or videographer?
While it’s not a dealbreaker, having a wedding photographer who works well with key vendors like your planner or videographer can be an advantage. Rebeca Glen, the planner and founder of The Wedding Fairy notes that when the photographer and planner are on the same page, it’s much easier to bring the couple’s vision to life. The planning team at Bash Please adds that while they’re always open to working with new or lesser-known vendors, as some of their best collaborations have come from personal recommendations, if your photographer has previously worked with your videographer, it’s definitely a bonus.
Do you have tips for couples to get the best photos on their wedding?
Photographers often have valuable advice, from how to look relaxed and natural to the best times for golden-hour shots.
Photo: Nirav Patel
About Background and Experience
Understanding your photographer’s background can provide insight into their skills, reliability, and feel about their craft.
How many weddings do you shoot per weekend or month?
It gives you insight into their workload. A photographer who books too many weddings in a short period may not be able to provide each client the attention they deserve. “Asking this is important if you value a more personalized experience with someone who only takes on a certain amount to give the best experience possible to you as the client,” photographer Emily of Elle Studios says. “Having a limited number of weddings per year is actually healthy and keeps photographers creative,” adds Kim Hymes. Photographer Amelie Black notes, “Some photographers are comfortable taking on 3-4 weddings a month, while others may shoot 8-10. It’s important to trust that your potential photographer has found a work-life balance they are confident with.”
Why did you choose to photograph weddings? What is your favorite part of the wedding day?
Wedding photography is an art form focused on capturing the intimate moments of one of life’s most significant milestones. Understanding a photographer’s motivation can help you determine if their passion aligns with your vision. Those who genuinely love weddings often bring extra energy and creativity to their work.
How long have you been shooting weddings? How many weddings have you captured?
Understanding their experience level will let you see how well they know the industry and how well-equipped they are to manage your wedding day. “Experience just means they know how to handle unexpected things, whether it’s changing weather, tricky lighting, or a demanding mother of the bride. They also know how to gather everyone for group photos. All knowledge comes from experience,” says Neiyo. “A seasoned wedding photographer knows how to work within timeframes and is familiar with the flow of a wedding day. This makes sure that you can get the most out of the time they have with you and those elements unfold naturally, without the worry of waiting for the photographers to get “the shot,” adds Rebeca Glen, the planner and founder of The Wedding Fairy.
Amelie Black points out that some wedding photographers may have started in other areas, so even if they’re new to weddings, they can still bring confidence in their style and equipment. While there’s nothing wrong with hiring fresh talent, it’s just good to know whether you’re speaking with an experienced professional or someone just starting in the industry so you can manage expectations.
How do you handle low-light or challenging conditions? Can we see examples?
Weddings can have a variety of lighting situations—outdoor ceremonies, dimly lit receptions, and everything in between. The team at Emma Mullins Photography explains: “A dark venue requires expertise in using additional lighting, flash, and other equipment to avoid grainy or poorly exposed photos. By asking for examples of their work, you can see how they’ve successfully navigated similar venues, giving you confidence that they can capture beautiful images no matter the lighting conditions.”
As a wedding photographer, what do you value the most and why?
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. “Everyone is different and has unique tastes,” explains Kim Hymes. “Some photographers focus on fashion, while others prioritize family. Some clients want a more editorial style, while others prefer a mix. It’s important to see if your values and styles match up.”
Can you provide testimonials from previous clients?
Hearing feedback from other couples can give you peace of mind that you’re hiring someone fitted and skilled. “This may feel like a dated question, but one I feel really counts,” says Chaise Helaine Tinsley, a wedding and lifestyle photographer at Helaine. “Pay close attention to common themes popping up. If you want traditional images and all the reviews speak to a candid, artful approach, you might want to flag that for further clarification during the discovery call. On the other hand, if you are looking for a calm photographer and many couples mention feeling relaxed around them, that’s a great sign. And if family is important to you and couple after couple expresses how much their family loved a photographer – that’s fantastic news!”
Photo: Rachel Santos
About Style
Every photographer has a unique style and approach. Make sure it aligns with your vision for your wedding photos.
How would you describe your photography style?
Understanding a photographer’s style is essential because it should align with the vision you have for your wedding day. Ask to see full galleries of their recent work to get a sense of how they capture weddings. Pay attention to their photo editing style, whether there’s consistency throughout the entire gallery, and whether their artistic approach resonates with you.
“I’ve had friends who said their photos all look muted or too posed, lacking that relaxed vibe, or all flash and no natural light. But when you check out the photographer’s Instagram or website, that’s exactly what you’ll see. If you are after color, don’t choose a photographer who posts mainly black and white images. Go for someone whose style truly matches what you envision,” advises Neiyo.
What is your working style on a wedding day?
“This explores how the photographer participates in the wedding day. Does the photographer enjoy directing moments, or are they more of a ‘fly on the wall’ type? Are they quiet and calming, or are they energetic and encouraging? Are they posing you, or are they strictly grabbing candids? Question them to determine their personality and how much their presence will steer the day so you can prepare accordingly,” says Chaise Tinsley of Helaine.
“I think finding a vendor team that fits your vibe is so important! If you’re a chill person, finding a laid-back yet professional and efficient of course photographer could be a great fit for you. If you imagine an all-day party for your wedding day, maybe finding someone more up-beat and energetic will be your vibe. Whatever it is, you want to ask about their approach to find someone who will make you feel at ease and supported the day of,” recommends photographer Amelie Black.
What is your approach to posing?
“I see a wide range of expectations from couples on how involved they want their photographer to be with posing or just hanging back and capturing the moment. It’s great to establish right away what you are looking for in terms of approach,” says Amelie Black. Veronika of Bendik Photography adds, “Reflect on your comfort level with posing on your wedding day. Think about how much time you’re willing to dedicate to posed photos and whether you’ll enjoy that or find it stressful.”
What types of wedding days do you love or dislike photographing?
Chaise of Helaine advises asking this to clarify what settings, schedules, or moments truly inspire them and whether they’re the right fit for the overall vibe of your wedding day. Some photographers might love intimate, emotional elopements, while others thrive in large, bustling celebrations.
Do you shoot digitally, in film, or both?
This question will help you align your expectations with photographers’ expertise and style. Digital photography offers versatility and faster turnaround times, while film photography brings a timeless, nostalgic quality with its rich textures and tones. Some photographers are skilled in blending both, capturing the day with the convenience of digital and film artistry.
Are guests allowed to take photos while you are capturing?
Asking this is important because having guests take photos simultaneously as the photographer might affect the quality of the official images. Some photographers may prefer that guests refrain from taking pictures during certain moments, like family portraits, to ensure they can capture those moments without distractions or interference.
Photo: Stas Moiseev
About Pricing, Packages, and Albums
Getting clarity on pricing and packages is crucial to avoid hidden fees and misunderstandings.
What is your pricing?
“Even with feelings at the forefront, ‘how much does it cost’ will always remain an important question for couples,” says Chaise Tinsley of Helaine. “Vendors might not love this question, but I think it’s up to us to understand that questions around pricing are not only practical for couples but ones we should have empathy for.” Everyone has a budget, and what’s affordable for one person may be different for another. It’s a good idea to ask about starting prices early on to see if a photographer falls within your budget or is outside your price range. If their rates exceed what you planned, you can request a custom quote, but be honest and realistic about what you’re willing to spend. Here we dived into the average wedding photography cost, which typically accounts for around 10-12% of the total wedding budget.
What is included in your wedding packages?
Photographers often have different packages, so it’s important to clarify what’s included in each one. How many hours of coverage do you get? What’s the cost of extra hours? Does the package include a second photographer, and if so, how long will they stay? How many photos will you receive, and will they be edited? Are basic edits or full retouching included? If you want additional adjustments like removing objects or color corrections, is that part of the package or an extra charge? How many rounds of edits are offered? Are engagement sessions, pre-wedding events, or albums part of the deal? Understanding these details will help you see if the package aligns with your needs and budget. Make sure there are no hidden costs.
Are there any additional costs not included in your packages?
Some photographers charge extra for things like pre-wedding events, albums, prints, or overtime. For destination or non-local weddings, ask if travel fees are included in the package or if they’ll be an additional cost. Will the photographer need accommodation, and if so, how many rooms and for how many nights? Clarifying these details upfront helps you avoid any surprise costs later on.
Can I customize a package?
If you have specific requests, ask how flexible they are with customizing packages to suit your needs.
How long after the wedding will we receive our photos? Do you offer a sneak peek?
Every couple is excited to see their wedding photos and share some images as soon as possible. But post-production takes time. It involves selecting the best shots, editing them, and arranging the collection in a way that tells the story of your day. That’s why it’s important to ask if the photographer offers a sneak peek of a few images after the wedding day and when you can expect this. Also, what is the turnaround time for delivering the main edited gallery. Some photographers may take a few weeks, while others might need a few months to perfect your gallery.
How will photos be delivered?
This could mean receiving a downloadable link to an online gallery, a USB drive, or printed albums, depending on the photographer’s service. It’s about the method and format in which the finished images are shared with you after they’ve been edited and finalized.
What is your system for backing up photos before and after our gallery is delivered?
It’s about understanding their steps to protect your images from being lost or damaged, such as having backups on multiple hard drives, using cloud storage, or creating duplicate copies. Knowing their backup system gives you peace of mind that your photos are safe before and after the final gallery is delivered to you.
Will we have the rights to print and share the images?
Some photographers retain full copyright of the images, limiting what clients can do with the photos. However, most will grant you the rights to post, print, and share your photos. Be sure to ask about your rights and make sure you’re comfortable with their policy before moving forward.
Do you offer prints or albums?
Some photographers provide beautiful albums or prints as part of their packages or as an add-on. Ask to see samples to get a feel for their offerings. If they don’t provide this service, you can always ask for recommendations on where to get them made.
Will you submit our photos to blogs or post on your website and social media?
If privacy is a concern, discuss their policy for sharing your wedding photos publicly. They should be upfront and also let the planner know.
TIP: If there are specific photos you absolutely don’t want to miss or ones you’d love to recreate on your big day, be sure to share them with your photographer. But also remember, you’ve hired them for their expertise, so it’s important not to overwhelm them with too many requests. Let them have the creative freedom.
Photo: Pavel Golubnichy
About Logistics
If there are no more important questions to ask, and you feel confident that you’ve found the right wedding photographer, it’s time to make it official. Remember, no vendor is fully booked until both of you have signed the contract. Contracts usually include all the essential details like policies on refunds and cancellations, insurance, and what happens in unforeseen circumstances, so it’s a good idea to ask for a sample contract. As you get ready to hire them, be sure to clarify these key aspects with your photographer to ensure everything is clear and agreed upon.
What does the payment process look like, and when will I receive my contract?
The contract and payments structure are two essential aspects of hiring a photographer for a wedding.
To officially secure your photographer, you’ll need to make a payment first. Ask about the entire payment process upfront. Discuss how much the deposit will be, how to pay it, when payments are due, whether they offer installment options, and when the final payment is expected.
Typically, photographers will send the contract within a few days after your initial discussions, but this can vary. It’s a good idea to ask your photographer about their timeline for sending contracts to ensure everyone is aligned. Once you both sign it, you can move forward with confidence!
What is your refund or cancellation policy? Is the deposit non-refundable if circumstances change?
Life happens, and plans can change. Make sure you know what happens if you need to cancel or reschedule your wedding date, as well as their refund policy. “I guess for most photographers, the deposit will be non-refundable as they have booked the date for you and rejected other work. Anyway, read your contract carefully,” says Neiyo.
Do you and your team have liability insurance?
Professional photographers should have liability insurance, which is often required by wedding venues.
What happens if you can’t photograph my wedding? Do you have a backup plan?
Photographers are human, too, and things like illness, accidents, or emergencies involving loved ones can sometimes prevent them from attending your wedding. You should have a clear contract that outlines the “what ifs,” yet discussing these scenarios openly can provide extra peace of mind. Kim Hymes emphasizes, “There should always be a qualified second photographer ready to step in if needed, so clients aren’t left scrambling to find a replacement at the last minute.”
Do you have backup equipment? Will you bring it?
Equipment failure can happen, and no matter what happens, you want to know that your photographer will be prepared and have backups for cameras, lenses, and lighting.
Do you have any meal requirements during the day?
Many photographers ask to be included in the meal count for the wedding day, so clarify this beforehand to avoid surprises.
Photo: Lauren Alatriste
Meet the Experts
A wedding photographer with over 16 years of experience in the US, Germany, Hong Kong, and Melbourne.
A romantic, editorial-style wedding photographer based on the East Coast.
A Switzerland-based wedding photographer blending editorial and documentary photography styles.
A digital & film wedding photography and videography team based in Chicago, IL.
The leading tastemakers in the luxury event planning industry, headed by Sunna Yassin and Mollie Jones Hennes.
