Choosing the right wedding photographer is a very important step in planning your big day. You’ll be spending almost the entire day with the photographer you choose, so in addition to loving their style, having an in-person or phone interview is a great way to make sure you’ll be happy to have them around.

To help make the optimal decision when selecting a photographer, we’ve compiled an impressive selection of questions to ask. These inquiries are divided into 9 topics: availability, background check, photography style, experience, customer service, photos, contract, logistics, and delivery.

Best Interview Questions To Ask A Wedding Photographer

Here are the best questions to ask a wedding photographer before making your decision:

Availability & Schedule

These questions are important to ensure the photographer will be available on your wedding day and that they can accommodate any other requirements you have for the day, such as travel or lengthy sessions.

• Are you available on my wedding date?
• How many weddings do you typically book in a day?
• Will I have the same photographer all day?
• Are you open to traveling outside of your area for weddings?
• What is the estimated turnaround time for receiving my images?
• Do you offer any additional services such as photo albums, prints or canvases?

Background Check

These questions are best asked in person or via video call:

• How long have you been a professional photographer?
• What type of training/education do you have in photography?
• Do you hold any certifications or awards related to photography?
• Provide reference or portfolio of past work

Photography Style

These questions will help you determine if their style is a good fit for your wedding.

• How would you describe your photography style?
• Do you specialize in any particular types of weddings or locations?
• Are there specific shots that you typically take on the big day?
• Do you work alone, with a second shooter, or both?
• Will I be able to see the photos before they are printed?
• Do you offer a variety of photo formats, such as prints, albums, digital images, etc.?

Experience & Training

These questions help you assess the photographer’s skill set and experience.

• How long have you been a wedding photographer?
• Are you an experienced and trained professional?
• Do you have any reviews or referrals from previous clients I can look at?
• Do you belong to any photography associations like The Wedding Photojournalist Association or Professional Photographers of America?

Customer Service

These questions will give you a good idea of the photographer’s customer service commitment.

• What kind of communication can I expect from you leading up to my wedding day?
• Do you have any extra services such as photo books or albums available?
• Do you offer a discount for booking multiple photographers?
• Do you offer a payment plan or accept credit cards?

Photos

These questions will help you understand what to expect from the photographer’s end product.

• How long after the wedding will I receive my digital photos?
• Do you provide both posed and candid shots or mainly one or the other?
• Do you provide any additional photo editings services such as color correction or retouching?
• Do you offer any special packages or discounts if I book more than one photographer?

Contracts & Payment

Be sure to understand your obligations and rights before signing a contract.

• Do you require a deposit at the time of booking?
• What is your cancellation policy?
• Are there any additional fees or costs I should be aware of?
• Do you provide any type of insurance coverage for the photos if damaged or lost?
• What payment methods do you accept?
• Will I receive a copy of the signed contract for my records?

Logistics

These questions help ensure that all parties are on the same page regarding scheduling, payment, and expectations.

• What is the process for booking you as my wedding photographer?
• What are your policies regarding rescheduling in case of an emergency or bad weather?
• How much time will I need to allow for taking photos on my wedding day?
• Do you provide any additional services such as a photo booth or lighting equipment?
• Do you have the necessary permits or licenses to take photos in my venue?
• Can you accommodate any other requirements I may have for the day, such as travel or lengthy sessions?

Delivery & Printing

These questions will help you understand the timeline for receiving your images and what additional services may be available.

• What is the estimated turnaround time for receiving my images?
• Do you offer any additional services such as photo albums, prints or canvases?
• Are digital files included with your photography package and are there any restrictions on their use?
• Do you offer any discounts or promotions on prints or digital images?
• Do you provide a copyright release for the photos I purchase?
• Are there any additional charges for shipping and handling?

Conclusion

Finding a qualified wedding photographer can seem like a daunting task but asking these key questions before signing any contracts can help ensure that you end up with someone who meets all of your needs and expectations on your special day.

Keep in mind that while style is certainly important, it’s equally important that you feel comfortable enough with them so that you can trust them completely throughout the entire process from consultation through the delivery of final images!