7 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Photographer

Choosing a photographer for your wedding day can be quite a daunting task. You have options with style, cost, hours of coverage, the number of photographers who will be on site, levels of experience, the list goes on! In order to help you sort through the madness, I’ve compiled a list of 7 things to ask when hiring a photographer.

Question 1:  Do you have a website?

The answer should be a resounding yes and chances are you’ve already found it. Browsing through a photographer’s website is your first impression of their work. It allows you to decide in a super quick glance if you love it, like it, or are ready to move on.

If the answer is no and you’re still intrigued… please ask to see a portfolio of their work!

Question 2:  Is my date available?

Falling in love with a photographer can only lead to heartbreak if they don’t have your wedding date available. Once you find someone you would consider working with, shoot them a quick email and ask about availability.

Question 3:  Do you shoot alone or with a team?

Depending on the size of your event and the amount of time you want covered, it may be helpful to have more than one person on site that is responsible for capturing images of your special day. This can come in the form of a second shooter who can capture different angles, or be situated elsewhere to capture guests having fun while your main photographer is with you taking photos. Occasionally you can even have a team of people on site for those big events.

Question 4:  Will my wedding photos reflect the same style shown within your portfolio?

You need to ensure that while the subject will change, the style will not. Specifically, ask to see recent weddings that the photographer has captured to make sure their style is consistent and what you’re looking for.

Question 5:  What happens if it rains?

Weather is unpredictable sometimes and you need to have a backup plan! Taking photos indoors is a completely different animal that outside in natural light, so make sure your photographer knows what they are doing!

Question 6:  How long will it take to receive my photos after my wedding day?

The answer to this question can range from a few weeks to a few months, seriously! Don’t go into this blind. A surefire way to be disappointed is waiting without knowing what to expect. Even if your photographer takes longer to turn the images around, at least you’ll be able to plan ahead!

Question 7:  What type of packages do you offer?

Hold tight and get ready for a zillion different options! Here are the factors you’ll want to make sure are covered:

• Hours on site
• Number of photographers
• Products received
• Price

Comparing the hours on site and number of photographers is fairly easy to do, but what about products?

This is a major differentiator for photographers… some offer digitals images only, some will offer luxury albums and digitals prints, and some others still will be offering USBs, albums, and prints.

Whether you want a basic package or all the frills, just make sure that you and your photographer are on the same page!

Bonus Question: Is your business insured and registered?

This is one question that will truly set photographers apart! Professional photographers need to be properly registered and insured. Here’s what to look for:

• Confirm registry with the CRO (Companies Registration Office).
• Ask to see Certificates of Insurance for public liability, professional indemnity and equipment coverage.

So many options… what do you do? 

Pop me a quick email to check availability and schedule a discovery call to discuss your wedding plans in more detail!

• Prices start at €1969
• Includes coverage from morning until dinner call
• A digital gallery you can share with friends and family
• An 8’x8’ 30 page Fine Art Album

Looking forward to hearing from you!