Part 2: Important questions to ask before hiring a wedding photographer
Venue: Silver Oaks Chateau
In part 2 of this blog post, we'll explore another 10 questions to ask a wedding photographer before booking them for you big wedding day.
1. How do you handle low-light or challenging lighting situations?
Will the wedding have overhead lights? Will the reception have a dark dance floor? A skilled photographer should be adept at handling various lighting conditions to ensure your photos are stunning, regardless of the setting.
2. What is your cancellation and refund policy?
Understanding the cancellation and refund policies is crucial in case unforeseen circumstances lead to a change of plans.
A lot of wedding photographers have a non-refundable fee of half the cost of their photography services, others have a percentage rate. Ask the photographer up front before booking them so you’re not surprised.
3. Do you work with a second photographer or assistant?
Having a second photographer can provide additional perspectives and ensure no moment goes uncaptured. With two photographers, they can also be in two different places at once - one with the bridal party and one with the groomsmen.
A second shooter may also cost extra, so make sure to ask the photographer what their policy is for an additional photographer and if they can be trusted to capture your wedding day appropriately.
4. How do you handle family group photos and coordination?
Family photos are often an essential part of wedding albums. Ensuring your photographer can manage group shots efficiently is key. Another good reason to have a second photographer to help wrangle family and friends when their name is being called for portrait sessions.
You and the photographer should also put a list together of shots you want to make sure nothing crucial is missed.
5. Have you ever encountered unexpected issues during a wedding, and how did you handle them?
This question helps you gauge the photographer's problem-solving skills and adaptability in challenging situations. If the bride spills something on her dress, can they fix it in Photoshop? If the power went out in the building, but everyone wanted to proceed with the ceremony, could they handle that? Photography isn’t about just being creative, it’s also about problem-solving on the fly.
6. Can you provide references from past clients?
Reading reviews from previous clients offers insights into the photographer's professionalism, communication, and the overall satisfaction of couples they've worked with. Do they have five stars on Google? Do they have quotes from real couples on their website they have photographed in the past? Reviews are essential!
7. Do you have liability insurance?
A professional photographer should have liability insurance to protect both parties in case of unforeseen incidents. What if a flash tips over and hits a guest on the head? What if the groom trips over a piece of equipment? Will the wedding photographer be covered for these? It’s important to ask!
8. Will you be shooting other events on our wedding day?
Ensuring your photographer is dedicated exclusively to your wedding and reception helps guarantee their full attention and commitment to capturing your special moments.
9. How do you handle photo retouching requests, if any?
Knowing the photographer's policy on retouching ensures you'll be satisfied with the final images. Professionals should re-touch every photo they give you - whether it’s boosting the color and saturation, cropping an image or taking out blemishes.
If you are wanting larger requests like removing certain guests or family members from a photo, this is usually an added cost, so keep that in mind.
10. What is the payment schedule, and do you require a deposit?
Understanding the payment terms and deposit requirements helps you plan your budget accordingly. A lot of photographers have a payment plan (two-to-three payments) until everything is paid in full, others will work with you as long as the final payment is sent before the wedding day. Just ask!
Remember, your wedding photos are a timeless keepsake, so investing time in finding the perfect photographer is well worth the effort. We can help with this if you would like to chat by clicking the link below!