25 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before You Book

Planning a wedding is full of decisions, but choosing the right photographer is one of the most lasting. If you’re wondering what questions to ask your wedding photographer before you book, you’re not alone. This guide walks you through the essential ones so you can feel confident and excited about the person capturing your story.

These aren’t just checkboxes—they’re conversation starters to help you find someone whose vision and personality align with yours.

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1. What’s your photography style?

Do they shoot documentary-style, editorial, or a fine art blend? This shapes the feel of your wedding gallery. It’s one of the most important questions to ask your wedding photographer if you want photos that feel like you.

2. How do you approach the wedding day?

Are they hands-on or more behind-the-scenes? Do they direct portraits or let moments unfold? Knowing this helps you find the right fit for your personality.

3. Can we view a full gallery from a recent wedding?

Instagram is just the highlight reel. Full galleries show how they handle tough lighting, candid moments, and full-day storytelling.

4. Do you shoot digital, film, or both?

Some photographers use hybrid workflows—digital for flexibility, film for nostalgia. Ask how (and why) they use each.

5. Have you photographed at our venue before?

It’s not a deal-breaker, but experience at your venue can help with logistics and finding the best photo spots quickly.

6. Will you personally be photographing our wedding?

If the studio has multiple photographers, be sure you’re meeting the one who will actually shoot your day.

7. Do you bring a second photographer?

A second shooter is valuable for extra angles and backup coverage—especially during getting ready or the ceremony.

8. How many weddings have you photographed?

Experience matters. Wedding days move fast and require adaptability, leadership, and creative problem-solving.

9. How do you handle low-light or indoor venues?

This is one of the most overlooked questions to ask your wedding photographer—but crucial if your venue has dim lighting or a candle-lit vibe.

10. How do you help couples feel natural in front of the camera?

You don’t need to be a model. A great photographer will coach you through posing and keep things relaxed and fun.

11. What’s your prep process leading up to the wedding?

Do they build a timeline with you? Scout the venue? Collaborate with your planner? Preparation shows professionalism.

12. What do you love most about shooting weddings?

This tells you why they do what they do—and helps you see if you connect with their energy and passion.

13. How many hours are included in your wedding coverage?

Typical packages include 6–10 hours. Clarify start/end times and options for additional coverage.

14. Can we customize a package?

Need rehearsal dinner coverage or want a smaller elopement package? Ask if they offer flexibility.

15. What exactly is included in your pricing?

Break down what you’re getting: hours, second shooter, travel, prints, albums, sneak peeks, etc.

16. Do you include engagement sessions?

These are amazing for building trust and getting camera-comfortable before the wedding day.

17. Do you travel for weddings?

If your wedding is outside their local area, ask about travel fees, lodging, and timelines.

18. What’s your turnaround time?

Ask about when you’ll get sneak peeks and how long it will take to receive your full gallery.

19. How will we receive the photos?

Online gallery? USB? Ask about delivery format and how long your gallery will stay online.

20. Will we receive high-resolution images?

This is important if you want to print your own photos later.

21. Do you offer albums or prints?

Some photographers offer custom fine art albums as part of the package or as an optional upgrade.

22. How are our images backed up?

Every professional should have a system. Ask about backups during and after the wedding day.

23. What’s your cancellation or reschedule policy?

It’s not fun to ask, but it’s better to know upfront how they handle emergencies or changes.

24. Do you have insurance?

Venues often require liability insurance, so make sure your photographer is covered.

25. How do we book you?

Most photographers require a signed contract and retainer to officially reserve your date.

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📌 Bonus Tip: Don’t Get Caught Up in the Gea

You don’t need to ask, “What kind of camera do you use?” Trust the artist, not just the tool. What matters more is how they use light, anticipate emotion, and document your day with intention.

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💬 Ready to Ask Us Your Questions?

We’re Katie & David — a husband and wife photography & videography team serving couples in Atlanta, New York, and beyond. If you’re planning your wedding and looking for timeless, documentary-style storytelling with a cinematic touch, we’d love to meet you.

👉 Schedule your discovery call here https://hevesijournal.com/book-now