Questions to Ask Before Hiring Your Wedding Photographer | Wedding Tips

Hi friends, I’m Kaylee Creighton. I’ve been photographing weddings for three years, but on my second year as a full time wedding pro. I have celebrated over 70 publications both in print and web internationally. Over my few years in the biz, I decided to write a few informative posts covering topics I’m passionate about to help brides and photographers alike guide their way through the wedding world. Enjoy!

Every once in a while, I’m sitting down over coffee with a potential wedding couple and the bride pulls out a list she found on Pinterest of “What to Ask Your Wedding Photographer” usually, I have already answered the question in some way or another or had plans to later in the conversation. Today I thought I would share with you a few questions you should always ask your wedding photographer. These are the same few key points I make sure to tell all of my potential clients prior to booking.

1. What steps do you take to insure you don’t miss or loose images? This is important. Does your potential photographer have the equipment to photograph all of your wedding events/situations? Do they take the necessary steps to ensure they don’t loose images following the wedding? This sounds scary, but a professional wedding photographer should ALWAYS be able to answer these.
2. Are you insured? Accidents happen, and thats okay. However, before booking any vendors you should always make sure they’re insured and take proper steps to make sure they’re protecting themselves and you in case accidents do arise.
3. Do you have backup equipment just in case? This is a one word answer. Yes or no. Your wedding photographer should always have backup equipment just in case of emergency. The chances are they won’t have to use them, but if your photographer drops her camera half way through the day-your wedding still goes on. Whether you have coverage of it depends on how prepared your photographer is in the chance of an accident.
4. When will I receive the images back? What is your turnaround time? Important question! You must make sure that this is outlined in your contract with your photographer. Turnaround time varies from photographer to photographer. Don’t be blindsided after your big day when you could be waiting for months. *The average turnaround time for wedding photographers is somewhere between 4-8 weeks post wedding.
5. Do you have a contract? This one is HUGE guys. Please do not hire a photographer without a contract. A few things that should be in your contract with a photographer are A. Scope of work B. How long will your photographer(s) be present on your big day C. When will you receive your images. A contract protects you and the vendor!
6. How will I receive my images and what am I allowed to do with them? Depending on the photographer, you may only receive x number of images or you may receive images on a USB or CD. These are questions you must ask, because again, you don’t want to be blindsided after your wedding when you only receive x number of images on a CD. Most Photographers use digital galleries sent to your email these days, but you never want to assume. Also, you may want to ask if you’re allowed to print them and if you have a restriction on where you can print them.