20 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking

20 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking

Preparing for your wedding can be a very stressful experience. There are lots of important choices to make, from dresses to decor. Choosing a wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you will make for your wedding, and should be done with care. 

Here we’ve outlined 20 questions (plus our sample answers) that you should ask any professional photographer you are looking to hire for your big day. Getting these questions answered before you book your wedding photographer will help you ensure that you are making the right choice, and that your wedding photos will go off without a hitch.  

First things first:

1. Are you available on my wedding date?

I sure hope so! Let’s chat about your date and we will check our calendar to see if we’re available. The spring is our busiest time of the year. If your big date is during that time, we recommend contacting us as soon as you can.

2. How far in advance do we need to book?

For spring weekend weddings, we recommend booking at least 12 to 15 months in advance. For weekday and off-season (late fall or winter) weddings, we recommend booking at least 6 months in advance.

3. What type of wedding packages do you offer?

We have a range of wedding packages suited for everyone. Our packages are based on shoot time, number of photographers, and add-ons such as wedding books, videography, engagement sessions, and rehearsal accompaniment.

4. What is your price range? 

Our wedding packages range in price from $1500 to $4000.

5. Are you familiar with our wedding venue? Have you shot there before?

We’d love to say we’ve photographed everywhere, but the reality is there are just too many beautiful locations. If we have, we will definitely make suggestions and recommendations. If it’s a new area for us, we will always scout it out before the big day to ensure we’re prepared.

6. Are you willing to travel?

Yes, we can definitely travel. If you are within a 30-mile radius of Ann Arbor, there will be no extra cost for travel. Beyond that, we do charge for mileage within Michigan. If you are planning an elopement or destination wedding, give us a call and we can plan out details that will be specifically tailored for your big day.

Let’s get to know one another:

7. How would you describe your photography style?

We have a few different photographers, all with their own unique style. What makes us special is that we do our best to match your theme and preferred style. If you’re going for vintage, modern, dark, bright, warm, etc, let us know and we’ll ensure your photos are edited to your liking. 

8. How long have you been a professional wedding photographer?

We’ve been in the wedding industry since 2014. 

9. How many weddings have you shot? 

We’ve captured over 50 weddings and engagements.

10. Have you shot any weddings similar to mine? 

We’ve got weddings down to a science. We feel confident in capturing your special day. No wedding is like the other but we’ve mastered our process and will create a plan tailored to your specific timeline.  

11. Do you have any full galleries from weddings you’ve shot in the past? 

Absolutely! When we have our initial consultation,  we will share some of our recent work to ensure you like our style.

12. Are you willing to follow a shot list?

Yes, we actually recommend creating a list of must-have photos. Not only does this ensure we don’t miss any important shots, but it also holds both clients and photographers accountable.

The nitty-gritty: 

13. Do you photograph weddings in film or digital?

Although we have a huge love for film, currently we only offer digital photography.

14. What equipment do you use? Do you provide your own lighting?

We have a variety of cameras, lenses and lighting equipment. We provide all equipment during our sessions.

15. Will a service contract be provided?

Yes, we will send out a client agreement after our consultation. This agreement must be signed in order to lock in your date.

16. What happens if you can’t make it on my wedding day? Do you have backup?

Though it hasn’t happened yet (fingers crossed it never will), we are always prepared in case of emergency. We will make sure your day still goes according to plan, and a backup photographer will be there to capture your special day.

17. What happens if our wedding runs longer than expected? Do you charge overtime?

We do plan for a buffer time in case things run behind. There will be an additional cost at our hourly rate for any time over our planned schedule. 

18. What is the deposit for wedding photography?

We require a 30% deposit at the time the client agreement is signed.

19. How long after the wedding will we receive our photos?

Wedding albums will be provided within 4-6 weeks of the event date.

20. Will all the photos be edited?

Photos will be fully edited and provided in high resolution on a digital album.

Once you’ve had the chance to interview a potential wedding photographer and are satisfied with their answers, you can move forward with your booking decision confidently. If, on the other hand, the photographer is unable to answer any of these questions, or their answers raise red flags for you, it’s a good idea to keep looking until you find a professional photographer that is a good fit for you. Reach out to Airavata Studios today if you’d like to talk further about your wedding photography needs. 

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