It’s time to talk about making informed decisions when it comes to picking a photographer. Because I spoke to so many photographers before my wedding, I’ve learned what to look for in photo shoot packages. Hopefully, the photographer you are talking to has most of these questions answered in his/her package, but most often a number of these are missing, or photographers choose different ones to answer. Let’s make sure you cover all the bases!
Before we start though, go ahead and write down a list of what you have in mind for your budget and what you really want to best remember your wedding. I have ideas for photo lists that you’ll want to have planned out ahead of time here.
1. Do you have insurance?
This is definitely something to consider. Most are insured, but some aren’t, especially if they are brand new – which usually means they cost less. Just take the time to consider this one.
2. Do you have back up equipment?
Okay, so maybe they are insured – but what if the camera gets stepped on? Or knocked over? Maybe you think I’m paranoid, but it’s your wedding! Yes, I am a little paranoid.
3. Do you have a plan B photographer in case you have an emergency and can’t make it?
Anything, anything can happen. The car might break down, a family member could be passing away, a broken leg might send your photographer to the hospital, I don’t know, life happens! Ask if they have a plan. Most do.
4. Do you do videography?
This goes back to, what are you looking for, what do you want? And… what does the budget say? Sometimes photographers have videographers that they work with often, or they are usually a team, or they have heard of some in the area through networking. It doesn’t hurt to ask if you’ve been thinking about it.
5. What is your travel fee?
You might have to do some algebra with this one. If you don’t like math, pick someone really close, haha!
6. How flexible are your packages?
Perhaps their prices are a little too high, but you don’t want a full package. Maybe you just want some family and party pictures and that’s it, the rest can be taken on phones. If the photographer has not been talking to other folks about your date, often they are happy to customize your package.
7. How many pictures can I expect and when should I expect them?
Granted, this information is nearly always stated, but I was talking to one new photographer who only stated the editing timeline, and after looking at her family photoshoot packages I became under the impression that she might only take 15 photos or something … however, I asked to be sure and her answer was in the hundreds. Phew!
8. What is your photography style? Are you experienced with outdoor photography (less light control)?
Reeeeally important if you’re outside and won’t have a tent.
9. What is a usual wedding timeline for you?
This information can give you great ideas and also start getting you both on the same page. You definitely both need to know what’s going to be happening and when, so nothing gets missed in the hustle and bustle of the big day. I personally recommend giving photoshoot timelines to family members or attendants so they know when and where they will be needed.
10. How many weddings have you photographed?
Should you turn them down if they’ve only done one wedding so far? Not necessarily! This is why I had you write down what you want at the beginning. I was fine with hiring a young photographer for my wedding because my original plan was to just have people take pictures with their phones if they wanted, so hiring a newer photographer was definitely a step up, and within my budget.
However, if you have very high expectations this is good information to obtain. Some photographers are so experienced they could practically plan your wedding – they know how to stick to a schedule and get people moving! Asking the right questions can help you gauge their experience and the sense of responsibility they have when it comes to wedding photoshoots in particular.
Loading ...
