Bringing on your wedding photographer is a huge task and one of the most important decisions you’ll make for your day. If you feel the task is daunting or you don’t know where to start, here are some helpful things to think through.
First, ask about the basics + logistics
- Are they available for your date?
- How many images will you receive?
- What’s included in their package or packages?
- How long does it take to receive your gallery?
- How many hours of coverage are included?
- Is an engagement session included?
Asking these questions will give you a great starting point because it’ll give you the basic info you’d need to know. Is what they offer in line with what you are looking & hoping for on your wedding day?
If you’re unsure of what you want or if you don’t know the answers to all these questions, we always recommend hopping on an introductory call — even if your plans are still up in the air. It’s helpful to meet your potential photographers, see how you all get along, and get all the info you’d need in order to make a decision.
Do you like their photography style?
- How does a full gallery of theirs look? (haven’t seen one? ask!)
- Do you like how they edit/color their images?
- Are you drawn to their work? To how they capture moments?
- Are you looking for extensive photoshopping? Do they offer that?
There is no right or wrong answer to these questions— it will boil down to what you like and what you are looking for. Are you looking for images that are edited a little brighter? A little moodier? Are you drawn to a more natural, true to life coloring style? Do you like a photojournalistic approach? Talk with your partner and find out what’s important to you both.
Aside from asking about their logistics & style, here are a few other questions to talk through.
Does their gear have a dual card slot?
This one is *huge*. Make sure your photographer has gear that has dual card slots. This is a non-negotiable for us. You want to make sure that your images are protected. SD cards can corrupt and fail (usually due to no fault on the photographer’s part— technology is imperfect). A dual card slot just means that when they take an image, it is copied onto two cards at once. This means that if one does end up corrupting (which can and does happen!), the image will also be on a second SD card as a backup. Photography is a huge investment. Make sure you hire someone with gear that will properly protect your memories.
Do they send over a contract?
This is another non-negotiable. A contract is meant to protect not only your photographer but you. If your photographer (or any other potential vendor) doesn’t have a contract, you can always ask for one, but a seasoned photographer should already have one on hand and ready to send over.
Contracts should list out their clauses, such as what happens if you reschedule your wedding, their payment policies, what happens if they can’t make your wedding, etc. Life happens. There can be emergencies, whether on your end or on theirs. You want to make sure you have a contract that protects you and your investment.
Do you see yourself getting along with them?
Your photographer will be with you all. day. long. You will likely even be with them longer than you’ll be with each other. Make sure you can see yourself getting along with them! You want to find someone whose personality you can mesh with, and who you can even see yourself being friends with.
Can you request a shot list?
This varies per photographer. Some allow a shot list where you can list out all the images you’d like to take (i.e. a list of poses you want to have). Other photographers work best without one. Think through what your preference is. If you know you’ll have an extensive and lengthy shot list, you’ll want to find a photographer that will allow one.
We hope this gives you a general framework on what to look for when it comes to your wedding day photography. We know it’s a huge decision, but this breaks down a few of the most important things you can think through as you start your search.
With love,
K&C
