Are you getting married soon and are in the process of hiring a wedding photographer? If so, you may be wondering what questions you should be asking. Don’t worry – we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know when interviewing wedding photographers. This includes the types of questions you should ask, as well as what to look for in a photographer. Let’s get started!
Style
One of the most important things to consider when hiring a wedding photographer is their style. Do you prefer candid shots, or posed portraits – make sure you find a photographer whose style matches what YOU love. If you’re not sure what type of photography you want, ask your photographer for examples of their work and see if it resonates. Make sure you look at real wedding galleries from a variety of different types of weddings, shot BY the actual photographer you are considering. Pay close attention to the low-light, indoors or nighttime images – are they well-lit and in focus? How does the photographer replicate skin-tones? Are the colors true to life and accurate? Are the photos creative and unique? Do they capture emotional moments and document what’s going on throughout the day?
Personality
Another important consideration is your photographer’s personality. Do you think you’ll be able to relax and be yourself in front of them? Or will they make you feel uncomfortable? It’s important to find someone who puts you at ease, so that you can enjoy your wedding day.
Process
Ask about their process. How do they work with couples? How do they plan to capture the mood of your wedding day? What is the timeline for getting your images back and how many finished images will you receive? What kind of post-processing do they typically do with their images? Will they be providing a print release or album design? By asking these questions up front, you’ll have a better understanding of what to expect from your photographer and can ensure that you’re making the best decision for your big day.
Backup Plans
Find out about their backup plans. Do they have reliable substitute photographers that could cover in case of an emergency? How many other weddings do they shoot on the day of your wedding? Do they carry redundant professional-grade backup equipment? How do they handle inclement weather? Do they carry liability insurance? Is the backup plan outlined in their contract?
Rates
What are the photographer’s rates? Do they offer packages, a la carte services, or hourly rates? Is there a minimum number of hours that must be booked? If you need to cancel, what are the cancellation fees/policies? Are there any other hidden costs (travel expenses, album design fees, etc)? Can the photographer provide references from past clients?
Experience
How much experience does the photographer have shooting weddings in your area (or at your venue)? Do they specialize in wedding photography? Are there certain elements of your wedding that might present a challenge for them, like low light or lots of action? How many weddings total have they done? What type of weddings do they typically photograph (e.g., formal or casual)? Have they worked with vendors you’ve already selected, like your florist or band? Knowing this information ahead of time can help you make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible.
The best way to get answers to these questions (and more!) is to visit the photographer’s website and look through their portfolio. Most photographers will have a page on their site specifically devoted to weddings, so you can see examples of their work in different settings. If you like what you see, reach out and set up a consultation; this is your chance to ask all the questions that are burning in your mind!
The bottom line: don’t just hire the first photographer you come across or the cheapest one you can find! Look for the best fit for YOUR wedding vision!
