Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer

Preparing for a wedding includes pages of "to do" lists. One of the fun--and surprisingly detailed tasks--topping the list includes booking a wedding photographer. Although the task may occupy one line in your notebook, selecting the best photographer for your needs requires much more than a simple phone call or 10 minutes browsing the business' website.

Asking careful questions and detailing the breakdown of the wedding photography services and costs keeps both the photographer and bridal couple in sync. Remember, years after the big day has passed, photographs trigger key memories of your wedding day. Make sure your photographer tells your story in a style you prefer such as candid and photojournalistic, or formal and posed.

How many hours of coverage does "all day wedding coverage" include?
Some large-scale wedding photography packages offer all-day coverage. Find out exactly how many hours the package includes. The fine print may dictate an eight hour day for the photographer(s). If bridal hair appointments start at 8:00am, and the reception lasts past 8:00pm, (and the wedding couple wants the entire day documented), ask if the rate truly includes 12 hours (or more) of "all day" coverage.

How many and which photographers will photograph the wedding?
Booking wedding photography may take place with one or more consultants. Be aware, these people many not be the photographers for your actual event. Ask who, and how many photographers will work your wedding. With the rise of portrait photography co-ops, you may never meet your photographer until the wedding day. If possible, ask to meet with the individual photographer(s), and more specifically ask to see their work, before signing the contract.

How do I see my final wedding pictures?
The modern conveniences of digital photography allow wedding parties to view proofs via secured password protected websites, through Facebook albums and via low-resolution CD's. If you're automatically expecting the somewhat old-fashioned book of prints to view, ask if your wedding package includes prints. Many photographers opt for digital only viewing to save on costs--and offer an optional proof book, at a fee.

###