You’ve asked Chat GPT:

“10 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer” or “What to ask a Wedding Photographer”…

But Chat doesn’t always tell you what I’m about to share with you.

As a professional, I see hundreds of thousands of photographs per year. Working as an Editor for Getty Images as well as a major Bay Area Newspaper, I have had the privilege of editing and critically assessing the work of the most talented photographers in the world. Art can be subjective, but there are times when a photograph is in fact, very objectively amazing, or … just plain awful.

Obviously, unless you are a professional in this area, how do even know what to look for here? You may not know exactly how to look for the signs of a skilled artist and business owner, but I will give you a few more clues to look for as you are talking with various photographers:

Top 3 Must-Ask Questions

1. Can you share a full gallery with me?

A photographer’s portfolio is a sample of their very best work. However, for less experienced photographers, it can be a way to avoid sharing any weaknesses in their skills. The achilles heel of many newer/inexperienced photographers is low lighting (indoor receptions/churches, or outdoor receptions under the stars). Asking for a full gallery (or two) will ensure that you can see exactly what to expect from the photographer you are considering (and spot any potential technical issues with posing, focusing or lighting).

2. Who is your second photographer?

You may not realize this, but most wedding photographers hire random second photographers off of Facebook or IG the month before a wedding day.

We don’t operate this way, as a team of trained professionals that I’ve also trained personally. We are a family and only work with the most experienced professionals who have been vetted, who have the top-of-the-line camera equipment, and who have been trained on how to compose and guide couples to look their best. We have a reputation for quality, consistency, and professionalism in California for over 15 years because of our commitment to training and technical expertise. Our practice is not the norm, however

You want to see examples from your second photographer before you sign a contract. More often than not, the second photographer is a very new and inexperienced person with a camera in hand – without professional training. Your photos from this person may end up in a vastly lower quality level than the lead photographer’s imagery, let alone their ability to confidently guide and pose you.

How would you know unless you ask?

3. When will I receive my images?

I have friends that have waited 4-6 months for their wedding photos! If it’s not written in the agreement exactly when you will receive your images, make sure it is. There are many circumstances when a photographer becomes overwhelmed with a busy season and runs behind.

NOTE: Pay attention to response time. How long does it take to hear back from your photographer via email/phone? Generally speaking, the way someone does one thing is the way they do everything. If you like prompt communication and delivery, find a photographer who is always prompt. When they are in the stage of earning your business, this is their time to put their best foot forward. After they have your final payment, there is less incentive to respond/work faster for you since they have it all secured.

My last two cents:

Limit your meetings to a very short list of photographers whose work has wowed you online, or in a brochure. Also, do these in person. Most of the time, photographers are willing to give you better deals when they know you’re not just shopping them on the internet. Use the interview just to get a sense of personality, and rapport. Can you connect with this person? How do they deal with questions and follow-up? Make sure you express your thoughts to the photographer, and take note of how he or she responds to your ideas and suggestions.

Finding a great photographer doesn’t have to be the most serious task of your life. Know yourself, don’t overdo it, and have fun.