Questions to ask your wedding photographer

Choosing your photographer is one of the most important aspects of your wedding. Your wedding photographer needs to capture the spirit of the day and all of the emotions that go with it. The need to do so in a friendly and unobtrusive manner so that you can enjoy your day. The images taken on the day will stay with you forever and be passed down through generations in your album.

In these modern times, most people have a digital camera and can take a good photograph, but it is imperative that your wedding photographer has the experience, skill and knowledge to professionally photograph your wedding.

Your wedding day is a once in a lifetime event and one of the few times all of your family and friends will be with you. You only get one chance to capture those moments.

Make sure that you, and they, get it right by following this guide of questions to ask your wedding photographer before you hire them. Bear in mind that this is not a definitive list:

1. What is your photographic style?
Think about what type of photographs you want - they need to reflect your personalities as a couple. Do you want the photographs to be formal or more relaxed?
I have a relaxed style, but if you want formal photographs too then that can be done (see examples of my previous work).

2. Can we see examples of previous weddings you have photographed?
It is very important that you see examples of the photographer's whole portfolio, not just the few photographs they display on their website (or Facebook page, etc).
Examples of photographs from recent weddings can be seen on the Portfolio page. I also have albums and photobooks with professionally printed photographs that I encourage you to see (with no obligation) more of my work, as well as the quality of the wedding album that is available.

3. Are you the photographer who will be taking our pictures?
You need to build a rapport with your photographer so that you get the best out of them, and they out of you, as well as making sure you will feel comfortable in front of the camera on your big day.
I always work on my own when I photograph your wedding, for 2 reasons. Firstly I feel is assures you of a very personal service. Secondly I believe this to be the only way to fully capture the spirit and emotion of your celebration. Whilst I focus on the Bride and Groom I will also be there to capture those beautiful background moments that can so often go unnoticed. I will always capture the day unobtrusively and professionally, blending in effortlessly with your guests.

4. What are your qualifications?
Make sure your photographer can provide you with testimonials of past clients. This is as good as 'word-of-mouth'. Don't get fixated about formal training and exams. What is important is the quality of their photographs, and feedback from previous customers.
I am a member of the Society of Wedding and Portrait Photographers as well as Canon Professional Services so always aim for excellence in my work.

5. What kind of equipment will you bring with you?
You want them to have all the necessary kit, but you don't want them bringing a holiday's worth of suitcases.
I always bring 2 cameras, each with it's own lens, memory cards and spare batteries. This ensures that should anything go wrong with one the other is a backup. The same applies with memory cards, batteries, etc.

6. How many other weddings will you be covering that day?
You don't want your photographer in a rush. They are there to capture every special moment of your wedding.
I photograph only one wedding per day so you have my 100%, undivided attention, all day.

7. Do you provide a written contract?
There is not much worse than having your photographer not turn up on the day. Make sure you have everything in writing, and signed.
I have a formal contract that I and all of my couples agree to and sign. Everything that is, and isn't, included is agreed and written at our first meeting so we all know exactly what is required of me.

8. Do you have insurance?
Insurance can be very expensive so some photographers don't bother covering themselves or their work.
I have professional indemnity insurance which protects the quality of my work, and public liability insurance to cover any mishaps. Not romantic, but essential.

9. Is a booking fee required and, if so, how much?
Asking these questions and knowing the answers up front saves heartache later when you realise it costs extra for 'this and that'.
A £100 booking fee secures your date and ensures I'm yours, completely. The balance is payable 30 days before the date of your wedding.

10. When will you deliver the images or the disc?
You don't want to wait for weeks - set a date from the outset.
The disc containing all of your photographs is normally delivered within 14 days of the wedding day, and your album is normally ready 14 days after you have chosen your favourite photographs and approved the design. I try to hand deliver both so you receive a personal service.

The questions above are examples of some of the important details to iron out before you sign with a photographer. Make sure you are happy with everything before hiring them. If you have any further questions, or would simply like some more information please feel free to contact me.