Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer

First: are they available and a good fit?

1. 1.
   Is our date available, and how do we hold it?

   Popular Iowa photographers book 12 months or more ahead for fall Saturdays.

2. 2.
   Can we see two or three full wedding galleries?

   Not just the best shots. See how they handle dark reception halls, harsh sun and big family photos.

3. 3.
   Will you be our photographer, or an associate?

   Get the name of the person who will shoot your wedding in the contract.

4. 4.
   How would you describe your style?

   Light and airy, dark and moody, classic, candid? Make sure it matches the photos you love.

5. 5.
   Have you worked at our venue, or one like it?

   Barns, churches and dim reception halls all need different lighting skills.

6. 6.
   How do you help camera-shy people relax?

   Most people are nervous in front of a camera. Ask what they do about it.

Coverage on the day

1. 7.
   How many hours are included, and what do they cover?

   Make sure it covers getting ready through your first dances, or your send-off if that matters to you.

2. 8.
   Is a second photographer included?

   Two angles during the ceremony, and someone with the groom while you get ready.

3. 9.
   Will you help build our photo timeline and family shot list?

   Family photos go fast when there is a list and someone who knows the families to round people up.

4. 10.
   Do you recommend a first look?

   Ask how they plan the day either way, and how much time portraits need.

5. 11.
   Can we get sunset photos?

   Ask them to plan 15 minutes around sunset. Iowa sunsets are worth it.

6. 12.
   Is an engagement session included?

   Good practice in front of the camera, and photos for your save-the-dates.

After the wedding

1. 13.
   How many edited photos will we get, and when?

   A 4 to 10 week turnaround is common. Get the date in the contract.

2. 14.
   Will we get a sneak peek?

   A few photos within days are great for sharing while everyone is still excited.

3. 15.
   How do we get our photos, and for how long?

   Online galleries do not always last forever. Download a copy and keep a backup.

4. 16.
   Do we get printing rights?

   Can you print anywhere, or must prints go through them?

5. 17.
   Do you offer albums and prints?

   Ask for prices now, even if you decide later.

The contract and backups

1. 18.
   What happens if you are sick on our wedding day?

   Do they have a trusted photographer ready to step in?

2. 19.
   How do you back up our photos?

   Look for cameras that write to two memory cards, and copies kept in more than one place.

3. 20.
   Do you carry liability insurance?

   Many Iowa venues ask vendors for a certificate of insurance.

4. 21.
   Do you need a meal and a break?

   Plan a meal and a seat. Ask them to eat while guests eat, so they do not miss the toasts.

5. 22.
   What is your overtime rate?

   Good to know before the dance floor is packed.

Last: pricing

Why last? Once you know what is included, you can compare prices fairly. Two quotes that look $500 apart can include very different things.

1. 23.
   What is included in your price, and what costs extra?

   Second shooter, engagement session, album, extra hours and travel are the usual extras. Get one total.

2. 24.
   Are there travel fees?

   Common for rural Iowa venues or a photographer from another city.

3. 25.
   What is the deposit and payment schedule?

   Most vendors take 25 to 50% to hold your date. Get the balance due date in writing.

4. 26.
   What is your cancellation and reschedule policy?

   Know what you get back, and what you lose, if your date moves.

Questions couples ask