Questions To Ask Photographers

To preserve your wedding memories, it is critical to select the right photographer for your wedding day. While each couple will have their own unique needs, these questions are a great starting point as you interview photographers. We’ve listed the questions and what we think should be the right answers.

1. How can I view your portfolio? (Online galleries are a convenient option, but don’t always tell the whole story. If you are considering an album purchase, it is best to view in person so you can inspect the materials and designs.)
2. What is your style? What does that mean? (There are several photography styles; traditional, photojournalistic, stylized, candid. Look for a photographer that offers a blend of these styles to meet your needs. Ask them to define the term to be sure it meets your definition. They should have sample images to support their styles.)
3. Will I receive my high resolution images on DVD? Do I own the rights? (Make sure that the DVD includes high resolution images and a personal copyright release. Without one, you can not print your own images!)
4. How many photographers work with you? (Make sure there is enough to guarantee a photographer is “on-call”.)
5. Does the photographer work with the DJs, videographers and hall managers? (Yes.)
6. Are we allowed to submit our own shot list? Can you help me develop one? (Yes. Yes. Beware of photographers that do not ask for your input.)
7. What attire will you wear to the wedding? (A photographer should be dressed in professional business attire.)
8. Do you participate in online wedding communities? (A reputable photographer will have an online profile with highly regarded online resources such as theknot.com. This is a great place to read reviews from real brides.)
9. Is there someone to replace the photographer in case of emergency? (Yes. A photographer will be prepared and standing by.)
10. Will you bring back-up cameras and lenses to the wedding? (Absolutely.)
11. Are you insured? (Do not hire a company that doesn’t have at least $1,000,000 of coverage.)
12. Will we receive a personal consultation with our photographer prior to the wedding date ? (Yes.)
13. Can I have the number for previous clients? I’d like to call them for a reference. (No problem.)
14. Do you accept major credit cards? (Yes. This signals a professional & reputable company.)
15. How much do you cost? (Stay away from “bargain” photographers!)
16. How many hours does that include? (Should offer packages that vary to meet your needs.)
17. How much for each additional hour? (Rate should be stated on paperwork in advance.)
18. Will the photographer require a meal? (It is standard to feed the photographer, DJ and videographer.)
19. How long will it take to receive my proofs? Is another meeting necessary? (Online image proofs and album designs make it convenient for you to view your wedding day images without another time consuming meeting. Proofs should be available in a short turn around time – such as one month from your wedding date.)
20. May I review your contract? (Never do business with any wedding professionals that do not clearly spell out what you should expect!)

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