Planning your wedding is an exciting and overwhelming journey; I should know, I planned mine with my wife in 7 weeks. Choosing the right photographer is one of the most important and daunting decisions you’ll make. But there is so much to ask, to check, to plan, to think of. Sometimes you need answers but sometimes you also need questions to ask as this is usually your first time doing this whole thing. The number one thing I hear from my couples mid call is “We don’t even know what to ask, what should we ask?”

A consultation call is your chance to ask important questions and gauge whether a photographer is the right fit for your wedding. In this guide, we’ll cover the essential questions you should ask your potential wedding photographer to make an informed decision.

Availability and Booking Process

Before diving into details, you need to confirm availability and understand the booking process.

• Are you available on our wedding date?
• How far in advance should we book you?
• Do you require a deposit to secure the date? If so, how much?
• What is your cancellation or rescheduling policy?

Photography Style and Experience

Every photographer has a unique style. It’s crucial to ensure their aesthetic matches your vision. Bear in mind, sometimes photographers may have a selection of editing styles that you can choose from, but the types of photos they take on the day are more built in.

• How would you describe your photography style? (e.g., candid, documentary, traditional, fine art, editorial)
• Can we see a full wedding gallery, not just highlights?
• How many weddings have you photographed?
• Have you shot weddings at our venue before?
• How do you handle low-light or nighttime wedding photography?

Packages, Pricing, and Deliverables

Understanding what you’ll receive and how much it costs prevents any surprises later.

• What packages do you offer, and what’s included in each?
• Do you offer customizable packages?
• What is your pricing structure? Are there any additional fees (travel, extra hours, second shooter)?
• How many images will we receive, and in what format?
• Do you provide prints or albums? If so, what are the options and costs?
• How long does it take to receive the final edited photos?

Engagement Sessions and Extras

Many photographers offer engagement sessions or extra services. I offer free engagement sessions with most of my packages and find that the time spent with the couple before the big day is often super useful to getting to know each other and know how to get the best out of each other.

• Do you offer engagement sessions? Is it included in a package or available as an add-on?
• Do you provide videography services or work with a videographer?
• Can we add a second photographer to our package?
• Do you offer photo editing or retouching services?

Wedding Day Logistics

A smooth wedding day requires good planning and coordination.

• How early do you arrive on the wedding day?
• How do you handle timeline planning for the day?
• What happens if you’re sick or unable to photograph our wedding?
• Do you work with a shot list, or do you prefer a more candid approach?
• How do you coordinate with videographers and other vendors?

Backup Plans and Contracts

To protect yourself, make sure there’s a clear contract and backup plan in place.

• Do you have backup equipment in case of technical failures?
• What happens if the weather doesn’t cooperate for an outdoor wedding?
• Do you have insurance coverage?
• Can we review a copy of your contract before booking?

Rights, Permissions, and Sharing

Know what you can do with your photos and how the photographer may use them.

• Do we have printing rights to our photos?
• Will our wedding photos be shared on your website, social media, or used in marketing?
• Do you require vendor credit when we share images online?

Client Experience and Reviews

Getting insight from past clients can help reassure you of their professionalism and quality.

• Can you provide references or testimonials from past couples?
• Do you have reviews on platforms like Google, WeddingWire, or The Knot?
• What’s your approach to making couples feel comfortable in front of the camera?

Final Thoughts

A wedding photographer plays a crucial role in your big day, so taking the time to ask these questions ensures you find the perfect fit. The consultation call isn’t just about gathering information—it’s about getting a feel for their personality, professionalism, and passion for wedding photography. 

By asking the right questions, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your wedding memories are in great hands. Happy wedding planning!

If you’re planning a wedding in Hamilton, the GTA, or beyond, book a consultation call with me and see if I have the right answers to all your questions!