Important Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer
Hey there, all you amazing newly engaged lovebirds on the hunt for your wedding photographer! Let me start by saying, that meeting couples like you who are diving into the wonderful world of wedding planning gets me all kinds of excited. I totally get that feeling of uncertainty when it comes to picking the perfect photographer. But fear not, because I'm here to walk you through it all, from calming those pre-meeting nerves to tackling every question you've got about wedding photography.
So, if you're ready to jump right in and meet face-to-face, let's do this! No need to keep scrolling through here. But if time's tight and you want to skip ahead, just give me a shout. I'm always up for making new friends.
Now, if you're curious about what to ask when it comes to choosing your wedding photographer, I've got you covered with the top 15 questions to help you navigate this exciting journey. And hey, don't hesitate to throw in any extra questions you might have. I'm an open book, and I want you to feel totally comfortable every step of the way. Because let's be real, we're going to be spending a whole lot of time together on your big day!
How long have you been capturing weddings?
Well, I've been in the wedding game for over six incredible years now. But honestly, my love for photography goes way back—I practically grew up with a camera in hand. I actually started shooting film before learning how to use a digital DSLR.
What's your approach and style on the big day?
I'd describe my photography style as a blend of timeless elegance and modern sophistication. Every photo that comes through my lens exudes professionalism while still maintaining that effortlessly approachable vibe. When you decide to team up with me, it's not just a photoshoot—it's a creative collaboration. We'll dive deep into your vision for your big day, bouncing ideas off each other and finding ways to make it all come together seamlessly.
My goal is to capture not just the big moments of your wedding, but also those intimate, in-between moments that often slip by unnoticed. From the tender glances between you and your partner to the subtle movements of your attire, every detail is captured with precision and artistry. It's all about preserving the raw emotions, the intricate details, and the unique essence of your love story in every single frame.
How many weddings have you shot? Can we see some full wedding galleries?
Oh, goodness gracious, I've had the privilege of capturing the magic of over 100 weddings! And I'm genuinely excited to hear all about your plans. I'd be more than happy to share full galleries from weddings similar in style to what you're envisioning.
It's important that whoever you choose to work with can confidently showcase their past work. After all, you should know exactly what you're investing in! If you're feeling a bit weary of reading, I've got one of my personal favorites ready for you to peruse.
How many weddings do you shoot in a year? In a weekend?
I typically aim to capture around 15-20 weddings each year, ensuring that each couple receives the undivided attention they rightfully deserve. And rest assured, your wedding will be my sole focus for that entire weekend.
Who is your second shooter, and what role do they play?
My second shooters are always top-notch and have been by my side for quite some time. They're more than just assistants; they're an integral part of the team. With a full second shooter guide outlining our approach, they're responsible for capturing about 30% of the wedding gallery. Together, we ensure every important moment is covered, providing you with comprehensive coverage of your special day.
Can we provide a shot list?
Absolutely! I'll reach out to you a month before the wedding with my "wedding questionnaire," where you can provide your family shot list and any additional details or requests. It's all about making sure we capture every moment that's important to you.
How many images do you typically deliver?
I aim to deliver between 50-70 images per hour, depending on various factors such as guest count, the size of your wedding party, and the level of detail involved. Rest assured, you'll have an abundance of images to choose from!
When will we receive our images?
You won't have to wait long to relive those cherished moments! Sneak peeks from your wedding day will be in your hands within 48 hours of the wedding day. As for the full gallery, you can expect to receive it within one to two months after your wedding date.
How will we receive our images?
Your precious memories will be delivered through a private online gallery, allowing you to easily share them with friends and family.
What are our rights to the photos? How can we use them?
While I retain the copyright, you have full printing rights, allowing you to share and print your images however you wish. From creating albums to sharing on social media, the choice is yours!
Do you have preferred vendors or recommendations for other wedding services?
Absolutely! Building your dream team is crucial, and I'm happy to share recommendations for other trusted professionals, whether you need a planner, florist, or band. Just ask, and I'll provide a customized list that best suits your needs and location.
What does your engagement session include? Why is it important?
During your engagement session, we'll spend two hours exploring 1-2 locations with one outfit change, ensuring we capture your love story authentically. It's an opportunity for us to bond, have fun, and get comfortable in front of the camera. Plus, it serves as the perfect rehearsal for your wedding day!
Can we add on items after booking? How do albums or prints work?
Absolutely! Whether you want to extend coverage or add on albums, I'm here to accommodate your every need. You can choose to purchase albums separately after receiving your photos.
How do we book? What's the deposit and contract signing process?
Booking is a breeze! I'll send you an online proposal where you can review your custom package, sign the contract, and provide a 50% deposit to secure your wedding date. The remaining balance will be due one month prior to your big day, with various payment options available for your convenience.
What's your editing process like?
I meticulously curate all the images captured by both myself and my second shooter, carefully selecting those that will undergo editing. These chosen images are then imported into Lightroom, where I apply my specially refined preset to ensure consistency and imbue them with my distinctive style. Each image is individually assessed and fine-tuned, adjusting exposure, color balance, and other aspects to ensure flawless editing.
Additionally, I offer extra retouching services for those special touches. Whether it's removing pesky flyaways or blemishes, I'm more than happy to provide extra attention to up to 10 images of your choice, ensuring they receive that extra bit of love and care.
So there you have it! Your guide to finding the perfect wedding photographer, tailored just for you. Remember, this journey is all about finding someone who not only captures your special day but also understands and celebrates your love story every step of the way. Let's make some magic together!