September 24, 2020

Top 5 Questions to Ask a Photographer

When you’re hiring a photographer for a wedding or corporate event in your life, you need to ask the right questions. It helps to avoid running into any problems down the road. In this blog post, we’ve prepared a list of Top 5 Most Popular Questions to ask a wedding photographer. These simple tips will ensure that you receive the style and experience you expect.

What’s Your Style of Photography? 

The most important question you should ask is about their photography style. Make sure they specialize in shooting events that fit your Pinterest dream vision! Even though having a long experience doesn’t always mean they’ll be better photographers. Although it can be a relief to know with experience, they’ve done this before. The last thing you want is to take chances and hire the wrong person for the job.

Photographer holding a camera with a visible lens, emphasizing photography skills relevant for event photography and client inquiries.
Photographer taking pictures with a camera

What Does Your Package Include? 

It is essentialto find out the list of all the services included in their package. No one likes surprises or any hidden cost. You may also ask them if there are any additionalfees for anything that hasn’t been listed.
For example, extra fees may include:
Assistants and photographers assistants
Image retouching, editing, or optimizing
Number of final images you’ll receive
How long it takes to deliver the images
Charges for extra time
It’s so important to get the full picture, including tax or any extra travel expenses. It is better to be upfront than having that uncomfortable conversation at the end.
Complete kit for modern digital SLR camera with multiple lenses and blank sheet, illustrating photography equipment for event photography and photo booth rentals.
Complete kit for modern digital SLR camera

Will you be our main photographer on the day of my wedding? 

You found a photographer that shares your vision, and your worlds connect. The perfect match! Then the unthinkable happens, and someone else shows up in their place. Now you’re caught off guard, and it throws everything off.
Make sure you and your photographer have a plan-b in case that person gets ill. There is so much uncertainty about our current pandemic; you never know what to expect. Most photographers have an assistant that shares their same vision and values. It would be a great idea to meet their team members, so you are at ease if anything unexpected comes up.

Professional photographer smiling while holding a DSLR camera, showcasing expertise in event photography.
Professional photographer with DSLR camera

Do You Provide a Written Agreement? 

Many professional photographers don’t provide a written agreement. If the photographer is unwilling to grant you a contract, you should avoid hiring them. It will save you from unnecessary trouble down the road.
Make sure the contract lists the details of all the services you’re paying for. Including the terms and conditions that may apply. This will give you all the protection you need if your photographer fails to meet the terms. I should also add they must have insurance.
Professional camera capturing a wedding event with visible settings, highlighting the importance of hiring a qualified photographer for special occasions.
Professional camera

What if we have another pandemic, is the retainer refundable or transferred? 

In today’s reality, we live in uncertain times, so it is crucial to determine what options you have if the state declares another emergency shutdown. Remember to ask the photographer about their cancellation policy, like the recent pandemic. This will allow you to see if they offer any flexibility in rescheduling and how much they’ll charge if you need to cancel or postpone your event.

Wedding photographer capturing bride amidst joyful guests and bubbles at a celebration.
Professional photographer at the wedding celebration

Professional Wisdom

Here below are some powerful insights given by some of the industry top leaders.

Professional wedding photographer Erica Vernis posing with a warm smile, showcasing her approachable personality, on outdoor steps, emphasizing the importance of photographer-client connection in event planning.

Erica Vernis, A Professional Wedding Photographer

Choosing the perfect photographer for your wedding day might be one of the biggest decisions you make during the entire wedding planning process. After the cake has been eaten and your flowers dry up, your wedding photos are the only thing left to remind you of your special day! On top of considering the photography style and how much coverage time you’ll need, you also want to make sure your photographer is someone you click with.

If the photographer you’re interested in working with doesn’t initially suggest an in-person (or video) consultation, ask them if this is possible before you make your final decision! Getting to know your photographer before you sign the booking contract is just as important as the flavor your cake will be! After all, your photographer is the one you’ll most likely spend your entire day with. Wouldn’t you rather it be with someone you actually like?
~ Erica Vernis, Wedding Photographer

Young couple embracing in front of a floral arrangement, celebrating their wedding day, showcasing love and joy in an elegant setting.

ericavernis.com ~ Follow her on Instagram

Bottom Line

Now that you’ve learned all the essential questions, you should ask a photographer; you’ll be a lot more confident that you’ve hired the right fit. Experience isn’t the only thing that matters. You need to ensure they have the necessary skills and knowledge to capture the most beautiful pictures of your special day.

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