Questions to ask when interviewing a Wedding Photographer

Will he/she be taking the photos at your wedding?

If not, you should meet the person who will be and ask him/her these questions.

Are they are a member of any associations or groups specific to the industry?

If the photographer is a member of an association, he is networking with other professionals and is most likely up to date with current trends and styles of photography. Members also have access to continuing education and other resources that non-members do not have.

What styles do they specialize in? Do they do any creative shoots?

You want to make sure the photographer is comfortable shooting the style you prefer. Communicate what style you want.

What type of camera will the photographer use?

You will get a sense about the photographers knowledge and experience.

Does the photographer use an assistant? Is there an extra charge for this?

Usually an assistant who knows and understand wedding photography is there and makes your photographer's job faster and easier.

Will there be backup equipment available? And what happens if the photographer is ill?

You want to be sure the photographer is prepared in case of emergency. Make sure your wedding photographer has adequate backup equipment of the same type and quality. Also, you want to know the backup photographer is someone you would want to photograph your wedding.

Can other people take photos while you are taking photos?

Some photographers will not allow others to take pictures at the same time he/she is. The other cameras flash may effect the photographers photo or may distract the people in the photo to look another way. The answer to this question may be important to you if you want others to freely shoot photos during your formal session.

Has he/she worked at your event locations before? How did it work out?

Lighting issues and restrictions on using flashes may come up as a surprise once you are at your event location. If your photographer checks out the location beforehand, he will be prepared for these surprises.

Should your event last longer than scheduled, will they stay? Extra charge?

Sometimes the day can last longer than expected, and if so, is the photographer willing to stay and at what cost to you?

How many photos come in each package? What is the breakdown per photo?

You should have an idea of how many photos you want and what you are getting with the package.

What types of photos will be taken (B/W, Color, Antiques, etc..)?

You should know what type you want and if the photographer is willing to take more of what you want.

Will they accept of list from you, for specific photos to be taken?

Make sure the photographer is willing to accept a list of your must haves!

What attire will they and their assistants wear?

You want to make sure they will look professional!

How long after the event will the proofs be ready?

This could vary drastically, 2 weeks, 2 months, 6 months ,etc.

What type and how much assistance will they provide in planning your album?

It is nice to have a professional assist you in planning your album, it can be a bit overwhelming if you are not sure what you want.

Will they give you the negatives or what is the charge?

Photographers have the rights to their photographs and may not want to give up the negatives or digital full resolution files. It may be an added cost on the contract.

Does he/she have liability insurance?

You want to know if the photographer carries insurance to cover the cost if something goes terribly wrong.