Important Questions to Ask Your Photographer When Booking
Oh man, Christmas is close and I know those questions will be popping all over the place! It is my hope that we can get past the lockdowns and cancellations and come out on the other side with more fun to be had! In the meantime, I know you will be busy looking for photographers in the coming months so here are a few important questions to ask when you find “the one”.
Is my date available and do you have any other shoots or commitments that weekend?
First one – given right? Obviously they need to be available but if you have had your heart set on the perfect photographer and they are not available on the date you have planned. Time to look for alternative options. The second part is not so important other than when it comes to planning your timeline. Some photographers take on small family shoots and things to add to their services. You want to make sure your photographer is focused on your wedding and all in!
Will you be providing any assistants or a second shooter? If not, what is the cost for an additional?
This one is important because having a second shooter helps your photographer get way more photos of all the happenings. Also, it helps when it comes to posed photos and family photos. A helping hand is always preferred!
What is their photography style? What important shots do they always need to get during the day?
Photo style is important, as I discussed in a previous post – you have photographers that edit in the more light and airy style then there are the photographers (like I lean to) who are more moody – use darker colors and contrast. Not to mention every style in between. My advice is to start researching on Instagram and Pinterest. Their work is on full display there and the sites are more of a handshake when it comes to your photographer and style. Once a meeting has been booked, ask them outright and communicate exactly what you are looking for. It will save you so much stress in the end.
What is their background?
What weddings have they shot, how many? What venues are they familiar with and are they familiar with your venue? If not, would they be open for a site visit and consultation before signing? It is a huge investment and knowing crossing all the T’s and dotting the I’s is important.
How will they deliver your photos? Are there any printed albums or frames that are included? If not, what is the cost of ordering those?
Most photographers are digital – they use various methods to take, edit, and provide those photos through online albums or through digital files. Some however, like the girls I work with at Rustic Frames provide a bound album with your package. Others, those items are additional. Some photographers deliver your photos and you select the ones you would like, all additional are at an extra fee. Find out exactly what the investment would be so you aren’t blindsided in the end.
What is the Refund/Cancellation Policy?
Oh, we know 2020 has seen it’s share of cancellations and rescheduling of weddings. 2021 may be the same, it is too soon to tell. Be sure when you are speaking with your preferred photographer about the policy in terms of having to cancel or move dates.
What are their rules about sharing/privacy?
When you get your beautiful images, what are their stipulations for sharing? They should be clearly outlined in the contract but it is always good to have a conversation with them. Especially if you have a business where you may need to use those photos. Or what are their wishes if you share them online? Do you need to tag them or credit them in some way? Find out exactly what your photographer has written out to avoid any conflict post-wedding.
That’s only a few! If you have any other important questions – definitely shoot them my way and I would be happy to find the answers for you.
A photographer may be the most important vendor you have on your wedding day – sure people will remember the food, dj, etc. But in a year or few, those people have forgotten about your wedding. You will remember it for a lifetime and those photos will stand testament to that. When you look back, you want to love them just like you did on the first day you got them. Cover all of your bases and you should end up with an amazing expereince and product!
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