Hiring a wedding photographer is huge commitment and expense so it’s important to do your research and find the perfect one for you and your day. I’ve put together this list of questions that I think are absolutely necessary to ask before trusting someone to capture your day.

01 - Can we see a full gallery shot at the same or similar venue to ours?

Instagram and websites are a highlight reel of everyone’s best work and some of them may be styled shoots and not real weddings so it’s important to ask to see a full gallery. This will ensure that your photographer knows how to handle different lighting conditions, make sure you vibe with the style of editing and give you an idea of how many images you’ll get. It’ll also show you how your photographer captures every moment throughout the day.

Questions to ask your wedding photographer before you book

02 - How much experience do you have shooting weddings?

This one is so important when choosing a wedding photographer. If you’re looking at someone with lower prices then chances are they’re new to the business. Having experience is so important because there are a thousand variables on a wedding day and you have to be able to handle it on the fly. Having a few wedding seasons of experience also ensures that your photographer has the skills and ability to handle their workflow and make sure that you get your photos in a timely fashion with consistent quality.

Wedding at Coutts Centre for Western Heritage in Nanton

03 - What is your backup plan if you are sick, injured or unable to shoot our wedding?

Photographers are human and although we are completely committed to your day, shit happens. People get sick, cars break down, whatever. Every photographer I know would have to be on the verge of death to not make it to a wedding but it is important to know that they have a plan in place in case something happens.

04 - What is your deposit amount and process for booking?

Every photographer will have a different deposit amount and booking process so it’s important to know ahead of time what your photographer’s process is. Mine is a $2,000 deposit at the time of booking and full payment two weeks before.

05 - Do you have all required permits to shoot in our location?

Many places in Alberta and surrounding areas require a permit for your photographer to be able to work there. If they get caught working in those areas without a permit they can be forced to leave or have to pay a huge fine which would really kill the vibes on your wedding day.

06 - What is your turnaround time?

Unfortunately, I’ve heard a lot of horror stories lately of couples not getting their photos for months after their wedding. It’s really important to know what your photographer’s turnaround time is and make sure that its stated in the contract. For reference mine is 10-12 weeks but I always aim to get them back as soon as possible.

07 - Will we have access to all of our photos at no additional cost?

Some photographers price their packages lower up front and then charge an additional fee after the fact to access the entire gallery. It’s important to know ahead of time if there will be any extra charges.

08 - Why are you excited to be a part of our wedding day?

You want to hire someone that is excited to be your photographer and share in your special day with you. It’s important to make sure that you all vibe and will have fun spending the day together.

Bride and groom in cowboy hat kiss under tree at Coutts Centre

09 - Can we hire you?

Chances are you’ll know right away during your consultation if you want to hire your photographer or not. If you feel like they’re the right choice for you don’t wait to ask them. I’ve definitely had to turn someone down because I didn’t hear rom them and I was booked by someone else.

Best or luck with your search and I hope you find your dream photographer!!