Finding the perfect wedding photographer is no easy task, especially with over 50,000 photographers across the UK. With so many talented professionals to choose from, how do you find the one who will capture your special day in exactly the way you envision? Before you sign on the dotted line, there are several critical questions to ask your wedding photographer to ensure that you make the best choice. Remember, everything should be clearly outlined in your contract, no matter how small the detail. If anything is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification. A good photographer will be happy to address your concerns, but if they aren’t, that could be a red flag!
Here are the most important questions to ask your wedding photographer before making a decision:
1. Tell Me About Yourself?
While there are many practical questions to ask, the most important one is about your connection with the photographer. Do you feel comfortable with them? Trust is key when someone will be responsible for capturing the most significant day of your life. A personal connection can make all the difference in helping you feel at ease in front of the camera.
2. Can I See Some Full Wedding Albums?
A photographer’s website will likely showcase their best work, but that’s just the highlights. To get a true sense of their style and consistency, ask to see complete wedding albums. This will allow you to evaluate their ability to tell a story through their photos, how they handle different lighting conditions and whether their work aligns with your vision. Make sure the albums are recent and feature only their work.
3. Have You Worked at Our Venue Before?
While it’s not essential, a photographer familiar with your wedding venue will have knowledge of the best spots for photos, lighting and the layout. This experience can save time and ensure the best possible shots. If they haven’t worked at your venue before, they may offer to visit beforehand or even use your engagement shoot as an opportunity to familiarise themselves with the location.
4. What Are the Timings for the Day?
Be sure to clarify the photographer’s availability for the day. Will they be capturing the moments as you get ready, or will they join you at the ceremony? Many couples want the morning preparations documented, keep in mind that weddings can be long days. Discuss the photographer’s working hours to ensure you’re both on the same page. Typically, photographers will leave after the cake cutting and first dance, this should be clearly agreed upon in advance.
5. Do I Need to Cover Travel Costs?
All potential travel costs, including petrol or overnight accommodation, should be addressed in the contract. You don’t want to be hit with any unexpected charges on the day, so make sure everything is clearly laid out.
6. Do You Have Insurance?
A professional photographer should hold both professional indemnity insurance and public liability insurance. Their coverage should be between £2 million and £10 million, and they should be happy to show you their insurance documents. Most venues in Oxford, will require a minimum of £5 million in coverage.
7. What Is Your Back-Up Plan if You Can’t Attend on the Day?
Unfortunately, emergencies do happen, so it’s important to know what your photographer’s contingency plan is if they can’t attend on your wedding day. A reputable photographer should have a network of trusted professionals they can call upon if something unexpected occurs.
8. Do You Work Alone?
Some photographers work solo, while others may offer the option of a second shooter. Having a second photographer can be invaluable, especially for larger weddings. A second shooter allows for multiple angles and the ability to capture moments that the main photographer might miss. It also means the morning preparations of both partners can be photographed. Ask your photographer if this service is available.
9. How Will We Receive Our Photos?
Most photographers shoot digitally, meaning you can expect to receive a set of edited digital images as part of your package. On average, a full-day wedding will result in between 500 and 850 edited photos. Make sure to confirm how the images will be delivered, whether via an online gallery or a physical USB drive.
10. Do You Offer a Printing and/or Album Service?
Some photographers include an album as part of their package, while others offer it as an optional add-on. If an album is important to you, enquire about pricing and ask to see sample albums before you make a decision.
11. How Long Will It Take to Receive Our Photos?
Your photographer will typically deliver the final photos within 8-12 weeks after the wedding. However, during busy periods, this may take a little longer. Many photographers will send a few "sneak peek" images within days of the wedding to keep you excited while you wait for the full set.
12. What Are the Payment Terms?
To secure your photographer, a deposit will be required. Be sure to clarify the deposit amount and when the final balance is due. Make sure payment terms are outlined in writing, so you can manage your budget and avoid any last-minute surprises.
Budgets play a big role in planning a wedding and you need to be 100% confident you are making a sound investment and spending wisely. One thing I’d advise you not to scrimp on is your photography. It’s one of the only things from your big day that will last forever. You do not want to be disappointed.
If you're overwhelmed trying to source wedding suppliers and juggle wedding planning between work and life commitments, please get in touch with Katie Lou Weddings to see how we can help.