Things To Ask When Hiring A Wedding Photographer
I decided to write this blog post after seeing so many brides posting about not having professional and trustworthy experience with the photographers they hired. Stories about being ghosted and not getting their photos truly leave me feeling heartbroken. One of the things I love most about being a photographer is being able to capture couples’ wedding days so they can relive them year after year through my photos.
This blog isn’t about you hiring me it’s about trying to help couples in finding their perfect photographer whether it’s me or someone else.
Why should I ask to do a video call with photographers?
Not only should you love your photographers images and style but you should have a great connection as well. You’re going to be spending a lot of time with this person and while meeting in person may be a tough, a quick video call is perfect.
What questions should I ask a potential wedding photographer?
Experience and Style
How many weddings have you photographed, and can you provide examples of similar weddings to our venue or weddings you have shot at our venue?
(This helps you gauge their experience and if their style matches your vision.)How long have you been a photographer?
Do you have a specific photography style (e.g., candid, photojournalistic, traditional)? Can I see full galleries of recent weddings?
If our venue is dark, how do you handle lighting?
Packages and Pricing
What’s included in your packages, and can we customize them?
Are there any additional fees, such as travel, overtime, or editing costs?
Logistics and Preparation
How do you handle pre-wedding planning? Will we have a timeline discussion?
Do you work with a second shooter or assistant? Is it included in your pricing?
Do you offer suggestions on portrait locations if we need that?
What happens if you’re unable to make it on the day? Do you have a backup photographer?
Photo Delivery and Ownership
How long will it take to receive our photos, and how will they be delivered?
Will we have rights to the images, and can we print them ourselves?
References and Reputation
Can you provide references from past clients or reviews?
Have you worked at our venue before? If not, have you worked at similar venues?
Contract and Security
Do you require a retainer, and what’s your cancellation or refund policy?
How do you accept payments
Do you carry liability insurance?
On the Day Of
How do you handle unexpected challenges, like bad weather or equipment failure? (they should always have backup cameras and other gear)
What’s your approach to directing group portraits and working with family dynamics?
Do you really get what you pay for when it comes to wedding photography?
Generally, you get what you pay for when hiring a wedding photographer, but it’s important to understand what drives the cost and how it aligns with your needs. Here's a breakdown to help you evaluate whether the price reflects the value you're looking for:
What Higher Prices Often Indicate
Experience and Skill
Seasoned photographers have honed their craft, can handle tricky lighting situations, and know how to capture meaningful moments seamlessly.
They’re more likely to have a consistent portfolio with high-quality images.
Professional Equipment
High-end cameras, lenses, and lighting gear make a significant difference in image quality, especially in low-light or challenging conditions.
Reliable backups for gear ensure no missed moments.
Post-Processing
High-quality photographers spend time perfecting images, adjusting colors, and retouching details for polished results.
Business Operations
Professionals invest in liability insurance, secure backup systems, and robust contracts made by lawyers to protect you and themselves.
Client Experience
More experienced photographers often provide better communication, thorough planning (like timeline discussions and shot lists), and a stress-free experience.
When it’s a photographer's full-time job and the only source of income, we ensure our reputation exceeds expectations. We want our couples to feel safe in hiring us and want them to tell their friends about how great the experience was.
What Lower Prices Might Mean
Inexperience
Newer photographers may lack the skills to handle unexpected challenges (e.g., bad weather, difficult family dynamics).
Limited Gear
Entry-level equipment can struggle in low light, fast-paced settings or create a cinematic look.
Minimal Editing
Budget photographers may not spend as much time editing or lack the expertise to refine images professionally.
Finding Value Without Overpaying
Match Their Style to Yours: If their portfolio doesn’t resonate, even the most expensive photographer won’t feel worth it.
Look for Up-and-Coming Talents: Some newer photographers may offer lower prices to build their portfolios but still provide excellent service. Just vet them carefully.
Understand Package Details: Make sure you know what’s included—hours of coverage, second shooter, albums, etc.
A Balanced Perspective
Research, ask questions, and trust your instincts. A great photographer isn’t necessarily the most expensive but is the one whose work you love and who you feel confident can deliver on your wedding day.
Trust your instincts during the consultation. Their demeanor and enthusiasm should make you feel at ease.
Ensure everything you agree upon is clearly written in the contract.
All photographers need to start somewhere.