Although we specialize in High School Senior Portrait Photography, we sometimes dable in the wedding venue from time to time! Wedding celebrations can be challenging to the photographer is he/she is not prepared and/or understands lighting and/or his/her equipment. I have created a quick list for you to reference as you narrow down you search in ultimately finding your wedding celebration photographer:
Let's start with the basics
- Are you available on _____________ date? NOTE obviously, if the answer is NO, don't waste your time!
- How far in advance do I need to reserve my wedding date with you?
- How long have you been in business?
- How many weddings have you shot? What was the size of the weddings? Were they similar to the size I am requesting?
- How would you describe your photography style? (traditional, photojournalistic, creative) NOTE: you may want to research the different styles prior to asking this question. For descriptions click here!
- How would you describe your working style? NOTE: this will determine if they blend in with the crowds using longer lens or taking charge and choreographing shots with smaller lenses.
- Do you have a portfolio I can review? Are all the images yours, and is the work recent?
- What type of equipment do you use?
- Can I provide a list of specific shots for you that I would like to get?
- Do you offer engagement apart of the wedding package? Do you put together a slide show during the cocktail hour and/or instant slideshow of the ceremony?
- What information do you need from me before the wedding day?
- May I have a list of references? NOTE: The photographer should not hesitate to provide this.
The Wedding Day Shoot
- Are you the photographer who will shoot my wedding? If so will you have an assistant with you on that day?
- Do you have back up equipment? What about a back up plan if you (or my scheduled photographer) are unable to shoot my wedding for some reason?
- If my wedding site is out of your area, do you charge a travel fee and what does it cover?
- How will you (and your assistants) be dressed? NOTE: The photographer and his/her staff should look professional and fit in with the style of your event.
- Is it okay if others take photos while you are taking photos?
- Have you ever worked at my wedding venue before? If not, do you plan ahead by scoping it out a few days in advance? NOTE: Photographers who familiarize themselves with a location environment will be prepared for any conditions defining your perfect images with little to no lighting issues or restrictions and have a basic idea on camera angles to get the most exciting portraits of you and bride/groom to be!
- What time do you arrive at your venues?
- If my event last longer than usual, will you stay? Is there an additional charge?
Your Proofs, packages offered, and professional prints
- What packages do you offer?
- Can I customize a package based on my needs?
- Do you include engagement photos in your packages?
- What type of album designs do you offer? Do you provide any assistance in creating an album?
- Do you provide retouching, color adjustment, and/or any other corrective services?
- How long after the wedding will I get the proofs? Are they viewable online or CD?
- What is the ordering process?
- How long after I order my images/album will it take to receive them?
- Will you give me the negatives or the digital images and is there a fee for that?
The Contracts and Policies
- When will I receive a written contract? TIP Don't book a photographer -- or any vendor -- who won't provide you a written contract.
- How much of a deposit do you require and when is it due? Do you offer a payment plan?
- What is your refund / Cancellation policy?
- Do you have liability insurance?
End the end, you should feel a connection with him/her on how they will work with you. Not just as a photographer but through the process of communication, planning, and finalizing everything you need to define your special moment! If the photographer listened to you, addressed all your concerns and seemed to be prepared and communicated well, then they are probably the right photographer for you! Just remember, you pay for what you get.... Don't look at pricing, look at the skill or you will regret it in the near future?
