Choosing  the PERFECT wedding photographer for your special day can easily become one of the hardest decisions you make. Not only are these photos some of the most important ones you will purchase, but there are SO many options out there it can make your head spin. To help make the process easier, here are 5 of the MOST important questions to ask when interviewing photographers.

 

“Is my date available?”

 

This might seem like an obvious question, but it needs to be the FIRST question you ask. The last thing you want is to find your dream photographer only to realize they are already booked for your wedding date. I have had brides book me 18 months in advance, so don’t assume that just because you are starting early that your date will be available, especially if you have a popular date.

 

“Can I See An Example of a Recent Wedding You Shot?”

Following a photographer on social media or checking out their website is a great way to see their style, personality and samples of their best work. But if you want to see what a full wedding day looks like, ask to see a full gallery. Even better, ask if they have a gallery from a wedding shot at your same venue.

 

“Will You Be the One Shooting My Wedding Day?”

Some large photography companies have contractors that shoot weddings for them. They book multiple weddings for one weekend and then hire other “associate” photographers to shoot the weddings they are not available for themselves. If you are looking for a photographer that you connect with and will be with you through the whole process, then look for a photographer that shoots their own weddings. I personally limit the number of weddings I book each month so I can invest in my brides. I like to take the time to get to know them, build a relationship and give each wedding my all.

 

“What Sets you Apart From Other Photographers?”

With all the photographers out there, you want to find the one that isn’t like all the others. You want to find one that has something to offer that the others can’t. That “thing” will be different for everyone. When I get asked this questions I don’t have to think twice about my answer – what sets me apart is ME! You can get beautiful photos from a number of photographers, but you won’t get the personal attention and extra special touch I bring to my work.

 

“What Are Your Wedding Packages, and Are They Customizable?”

Finding a perfect wedding photographer on an unlimited budget is easy, but most brides aren’t on an unlimited budget so it’s important to ask about pricing. Most photographers have a range of package options so ask to see what options you have. You can also see if the packages are customizable to fit your needs. Do you need extra time on your wedding day? Do you want to add albums but don’t need a bridal session? Don’t hesitate to ask!

 

BONUS: 3 things NOT to do….

 

1. Please don’t ask for a discounted rate! If the photographer is running a special offer that’s one thing, but asking for a reduced rate just because might turn the photographer off. Not only are you interviewing the photographer, but they are interviewing you as well to make sure the two of you are good fit.
2. Don’t “ghost” your photographers. If you have met with several photographers and finally picked the best one for you, it’s polite to let the others know. You don’t have to go into details or give them a run down of why you went with someone else, but a short email thanking them for their time and letting them know you have decided to go with someone else will be much appreciated.
3. When you are ready to book…do it! Most good photographers book up quickly and well in advance. Once you have chosen your photographer make it official as soon as you can. Your date will be locked in and unavailable to anyone else after that. If you wait too long thinking that your verbal agreement was enough, you might end up losing your photographer to someone else that was ready to sign on the dotted line.

 

Wedding photography is a large investment, but should be one of the most important investments when planning your wedding. After the day is over, the dress is put away, the flowers wilt and the cake is gone….the photos will remain. Make sure your day is captured well!

 

Want More? Check out these other great resources:

11 Things To Pack in Your Wedding Day Bag

Creative Engagement Session Ideas

Unplugged Weddings