Meeting photographer

Ask if they’ve shot at your venue(s) before, if they work with a second shooter (this seems to be pretty common/standard) and of there’s an associated fee, if they have back up gear, how your photos will be delivered/album options, any fees for travel, what their packages cover (how many hours, getting ready, ceremony, reception, etc.).

If there’s anything unique or special you’re including in your day, ask if they’ve shot anything like that.

View Quoted Comment Thank you!

Hey Lizbeth! It’s great to see that you have become such an active member in our community!

Congrats on finding a photographer that you like for your wedding, that’s so exciting! I’m sure your photographs will turn out beautiful!

I found an article in the ideas section that I think will be really helpful to you in advance of meeting with them.

14 Questions Every Couple Must Ask a Wedding Photographer.

View Quoted Comment Thank you, I'll check that out.

We kind of already knew our photographers. They shot our friends wedding and do pictures for my friends kids. We got to watch them in action at the wedding which was nice. When we met with them they did a lot of the talking. They talked about who they are and what their style is and how long then have been doing this and things like that. They asked if we had some kind of idea of times and what we wanted. I made up a mock day of timeline and brought it with me for DJ and photographer meetings so they could kind of see what we were aiming for. I told them we wanted a first look and all of the bridal and family pictured done before the ceremony, which they loved because thats how they like to do it. They looked over my timeline and told me when they would like to start shooting so they could be done about an hour before guests started to arrive. It worked out great and told me to take the contract home read it over and pick out a package and then mail it to them and they would block off the date. I also asked them if they have done a wedding at our venue, which they have not, makes me worried but also excited at the same time. I know they are amazing photographers and will do amazing, but I offered to have them meet me at the venue the next time I am there to kind of get an idea of what they are working with. Ask all the questions that pop into your head, there isn't a stupid question, it is their job to answer them and make you feel comfortable.

View Quoted Comment Thank you!!!

Be sure to ask if they have some kind of backup clause in their contract. Like, just in case they become ill or have an accident, or some other emergency that would prevent them from being your photographer on your wedding day. What is their Plan B? I know ours guarantees a professional substitute photographer in the event she is unable to fulfill our contract. But that's important, and protects you and all the money you are spending on this vendor.

View Quoted Comment Omgosh thank you I hadn't thought of that!