The Ultimate Wedding Photography Checklist
Hey, future newlyweds! You’ve got your wedding date set, the venue’s booked, and now it’s time to choose the one person who will capture every single special moment of your big day. Your wedding photographer will be there to document everything from the first look to the last dance, so it’s super important to make sure you find someone who not only takes great photos but also gets you, your vibe, and your love story.
To make sure you’re asking all the right questions, I’ve created this ultimate checklist to help you find the perfect photographer for your wedding day. By the end of this post, you’ll feel confident and ready to choose the photographer who’s going to help you make memories you’ll cherish forever. Let’s get started!
1. What's Your Photography Style?
Every photographer has their own style, and it’s important that it aligns with what you envision for your wedding day. Are they more traditional with posed shots, or do they lean toward documentary-style photography, capturing real, unposed moments?
Make sure to ask them about their specific approach. Here’s where their portfolio will come in handy—take a look through their photos and see if the way they capture moments speaks to your heart. Whether it’s natural light, a photo-journalistic vibe, or more artistic, make sure their style matches your vision.
2. Can We See Full Wedding Galleries?
While portfolios are amazing for showing highlights, you’ll want to see an entire wedding gallery to understand how the photographer captures an entire day. Ask to see galleries from weddings similar to yours. This will give you an idea of how they handle everything—from the pre-ceremony moments to the reception dancing.
It’s important to see how they tell the story of the entire day, as each moment (from getting ready to the first dance) deserves to be captured beautifully.
3. How Do You Handle Wedding Day Timelines?
Wedding days are filled with excitement (and a bit of chaos!), so having a photographer who’s organized is key. Ask how they help with the timeline, especially when it comes to portraits, ceremony photos, and family shots.
A photographer who’s experienced will guide you through the day to ensure everything runs smoothly without missing any important moments. If they’re able to provide suggestions for optimal light timing (like golden hour) or what to do when there are delays, that’s a huge plus!
4. Do You Work with a Second Shooter?
Some photographers work solo, while others bring a second shooter to help capture more moments throughout the day. Having a second shooter can be especially helpful during large weddings or when there are multiple key moments happening at the same time (like the ceremony and reception). A second shooter ensures that no special moment goes uncaptured, offering different angles and perspectives, which adds depth and variety to your wedding album.
If you’re unsure whether a second shooter is necessary, check out this insightful blog from Brooke Elisabeth Photography, which explains why a second photographer can be a game-changer on your wedding day. Having an additional photographer means more coverage, more moments captured, and a less stressful experience for everyone involved!
5. What’s Included in Your Package?
It’s essential to understand exactly what’s included in the photographer’s package. Does the price include an engagement session? How many hours of coverage will you get on the wedding day? Are albums or prints included?
Clarifying what’s in the package helps avoid any surprises down the road. If you want extra hours or additional services, ask if they offer customizable options.
6. How Do You Handle Family Photos?
Family photos are an important part of your wedding day, but let’s be real—getting everyone together can sometimes be a challenge! Ask your photographer how they approach family portraits.
Do they help coordinate the family members? Will they work with your wedding planner or family members to ensure everyone is where they need to be? Having a photographer who’s proactive in this area can make the whole process smoother.
7. How Long After the Wedding Will We Receive Our Photos?
The excitement of your wedding day may feel like it went by in the blink of an eye, but the wait for your photos can feel forever! Ask your photographer how long it typically takes to receive your photos.
While some photographers offer quick turnarounds (a few weeks), others might take longer, especially during peak wedding season. It’s important to know the timeline so you can set expectations.
8. Can We Meet Before the Wedding Day?
A pre-wedding meeting or call is a great way to get to know your photographer and discuss your vision in more detail. Some photographers also offer engagement sessions where you can practice being in front of the camera together. This is a fantastic opportunity to build rapport, ensure you’re on the same page, and feel comfortable with your photographer.