Essential Questions to Ask your Wedding Photographer
Questions to ask wedding photographer
Planning your dream wedding can be a whirlwind of excitement, but when it comes to capturing those precious moments, you want to make sure you've got the perfect photographer by your side.
So, you're in the midst of wedding planning, and the big question pops up: "How do I choose a wedding photographer?" I totally get it! That's why I put together this handy list of questions to ask a wedding photographer you're considering. Whether you end up booking with me or not, I genuinely want you to feel supported in this process. One of the ways I do that is by arming you with the knowledge to make a decision you feel really good about. So, let's dive in and make sure you're all set!
How would you describe your photography style?
Light & airy, whimsical & timeless.
Will our wedding pictures be edited?
Yes! That’s part the service I offer. Receiving unedited photos would be like going to a ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ restaurant and asking to be served just the ingredients instead of a fully cooked meal. Editing your wedding photos in my light & airy style is part of the overall product.
How much is a wedding photographer?
If you're planning your big day in the Seattle-Tacoma area, you're looking at a range of about $3000 to $10000 for wedding day coverage.
My friend has a nice camera, why should I hire you instead?
Sure, with today's technology, anyone can snap a decent photo. But when it comes to your big day, you want more than just decent. You want photos that slay. And that's where the right photographer comes in.
A professional wedding photographer isn't just there to click a button; they're there to shape your experience. They bring expertise, creativity, and a keen eye for detail to every moment, ensuring that your day is not only beautifully documented but also deeply felt. From making you feel relaxed and at ease to capturing those fleeting, once-in-a-lifetime moments with finesse, they're there every step of the way, preserving your precious memories for years to come.
So, when you're considering the cost of wedding photography, remember: it's not just about the price tag; it's about the priceless experience you'll receive. And trust me, when you look back on your wedding photos, you'll be so grateful you invested in a photographer who understood the true value of your memories.
Do you offer payment plans?
Yes! I require a retainer fee to reserve your date on my calendar. The remaining balance is due in full 30 days prior to your wedding. Many couples looking for wedding photographers in Seattle choose one of my payment plans as a means of making the splurge more affordable:
4 equal payments
Monthly payments
50/50
For more information about the wedding photography pricing, click here.
Will you be my actual wedding photographer, or will it be one of your associates?
That’s entirely your choice! Wedding photography collections with me begin at $5,200. Collections with my associates begin at $3,500. It all depends on your wedding budget & my availability.
Do you have backup photographers who will shoot the wedding if you're sick?
Of course! I’m part of a community of professional wedding photographers in Seattle who are all eager to help one another out in the event of an EMERGENCY. I don’t believe in getting sick. ;)
Do I need a second photographer?
Are you having more than 75 guests?
Do you plan on having a wedding party?
If you answered yes to either of these questions, I highly recommend getting a second photographer.
Every collection includes the option to add a second photographer.
How long after the big day do we get to see the wedding photos?
The industry standard for wedding photo delivery is 6-8 weeks. However, I don’t want my couples to wait that long. You’ll see previews on social media of your wedding pictures less than one week after the big day. The full gallery is available 30 days after your wedding day. View a full wedding gallery here!
Do we need to give you a wedding photo list? Or do you prefer to have free reign to capture the festivities how you see fit?
I request that all couples provide me with a shot list for family wedding photos. For the rest of the day, you can trust that I will capture your day as it happens organically. That being said, during our final planning meeting my couples always share with me the photos they are most excited about so that we can customize their photography experience to their wants.
What are the restrictions for sharing photos online or for publication? Do you own the copyright to the wedding photos?
There are very few restrictions for sharing your wedding photos. You’ll receive unlimited personal use, which means you can download and print the photos anywhere. I retain copyright of the photos. ie: you can’t sell your wedding photos without first purchasing the copyright from the photographer.
Do you bring your own photography lighting?
Heck yes! It's our job as wedding photographers! ;) Whatever the venue lighting situation, you can trust we'll add any necessary light to create light & airy photos.
What will you wear while taking wedding photos?
I like to dress like a “nice guest.” Generally this means a black, navy or neutral colored dress or skort.
Should I do a first look?
Whoever said a first look takes away the aisle moment clearly hasn’t experienced the double dose of happy tears like we did! 😂💕 As a bride turned photographer, trust me when I say that the first look is a game-changer on your big day.
But here’s the real kicker - the #1 reason my couples swear by the first look? You get to ditch the FOMO and actually enjoy your cocktail hour with your guests! 🥂 No more sneaking away for photos while missing out on the fun. It’s a win-win situation, folks!
Curious about the other 9 unexpected benefits? check out 10 UNEXPECTED BENEFITS OF DOING A FIRST LOOK
How long have you been a wedding photographer?
I’ve been living my best life as a wedding photographer in Seattle for 12 years.
What’s included in my wedding photography package?
EVERY WEDDING COLLECTION WE OFFER INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING
8 hours of photography
1 photographer
curated & edited digital images
online gallery
print rights
wedding day posing guidance
photography timeline guidance
planning consultation
frequent emails with advice about preparing for your wedding photography experience
discounted anniversary sessions for life
Many of my couples choose to add the following luxury upgrades:
wedding album
second photographer
engagement photos
wedding day boudoir & little black book
wedding albums for their parents
How do I get the contract back to you?
It’s easy peasy— the contract is built into your online booking portal.
Do you carry liability insurance?
yep!
Are there any additional fees beyond what’s quoted?
Nope. Sneaky fees are bullshit. All taxes & fee's are included in the custom quote I put together for you during our initial call.