5 Critical Questions to Ask Prospective Wedding Photographers

Clients constantly ask us how to choose a wedding photographer. With so many photographers in Toronto, it’s tough to pick the right one! Take the time to judge photographers not only on their style of photography, but on their overall professionalism. You’ll be meeting several photographers before selecting the one. Here are five questions to help identify the right professional wedding photographer for you.

1) How long have you been in the wedding photography business?

This is an important one, even if you are open to newer photogs. Be sure to define what you mean by ‘in the business.’ For example, some wedding photographers include training and education years as part of their years of experience, but you may mean the number of years they’ve photographed wedding specifically.

2) What is your backup plan if your camera fails, or if you are unable to photograph my wedding in the case of an emergency?

As a wedding planner, I know that contingency plans are critical. Michelle and I have witnessed all sorts of unplanned items pop up before and during the wedding day. It is important to have a contingency plan with all vendors – especially your photographer. Many vendors will provide a full refund if they are unable to perform their duties on the wedding day. That’s great, but it won’t help much when you don’t have pro photography on the most important day of your life. Your photographer should have a wide network to ensure they can guarantee quality photography if an emergency comes up – and make sure it’s in the contract!

3) Do you use lighting or off camera flash at weddings?

A professional photographer will have the appropriate equipment for your venue and outdoor photography settings. If you have a vision for specific shots, like light painting, you need a wedding photographer who uses more than basic lighting. Sometimes these extra lighting options come at an additional cost – so double check what the specific equipment inclusions are with your selected package to make sure you’re still on budget.

4) What is the turnaround time on my photos and online gallery?

A professional photographer will guarantee a delivery date in writing, and will honour that date. This timeline can vary depending on the time of year, the calibre of photographer, and style of photography. If turnaround time is a deal breaker, ensure that delivery dates are explicitly stated in the contract.

5) Will you hold my wedding date until we have made a decision?

Quality wedding photographers, have full schedules, which is why we recommend booking this service early in the planning process. While you are meeting with and evaluating your favourites, your photographer will be meeting with other couples who are getting married around the same time as you. Ask for a ‘first right of refusal,’ in case any other inquiries for your wedding date come in.

Did you enjoy this post? We’d love to help you with your wedding planning! Contact us today!