Choosing the best photographer for your wedding can be an arduous task. It’s easy to get overwhelmed sifting through potential matches in price point and overall aesthetic. To help make your decision easier, my team created a list of the most important questions to ask wedding photographers you’re considering to capture your big day. Inquire away to keep your cherished moments in the best hands!
CAN I SEE FULL GALLERIES?
Ask this first for a few reasons: A truly seasoned photographer should be able to share at least a few galleries of previous weddings. It also offers a glimpse of how your nuptials could look in front of their lens, especially if you request collections similar to your ceremony and reception. That said, don’t be turned off if a photographer has never been to your venue; this is rarely an issue since they’ve most likely photographed a similar space.
What does LSPC do?
I always send numerous galleries to prospective couples. Carefully selected wedding photo collections help us connect and envision how your day will be captured together. Whether your wedding is black-tie in a glittering ballroom or more whimsical at the Botanic Garden, I’ll share galleries featuring similar vibes and venues.
ARE YOU FULLY INSURED?
Insurance is required for every wedding vendor, not just photographers. Be sure everyone you book holds an active policy. What’s more, backup equipment is essential and non-negotiable. Emergencies and accidents happen when we least expect them, so preparedness is key!
What does LSPC do?
Not only is Lauren Spinelli Photo Co fully insured, but my second photographer and I carry a literal arsenal of extra gear to have on hand. My team is never at a wedding without at least two cameras; plus, we carry myriad lenses and other equipment to swap at a moment’s notice.
HOW WILL YOU KEEP MY PHOTOS SAFE?
There are now more tools than ever at our fingertips to keep files safe. Make sure you understand exactly how your photographer maintains the safety of your images during their editing process and beyond.
What does LSPC do?
We always have four backups of your images at any given time. At my studio, I save your photos to multiple locations, on and off the cloud. Once complete, your fully edited gallery will remain on my server for a year. However, I strongly advise saving your gallery in at least two places: Dropbox or Google Drive, and an external hard drive or flash drive. To keep your photos secure off screen, simply print and frame them or make an album.
DO YOU HAVE EMERGENCY BACKUP PLANS?
Often overlooked, a contingency plan is crucial. What happens if your photographer is super sick and can’t make it to your wedding? You’ll definitely want to know if and how you’re completely covered in the event of an emergency.
What does LSPC do?
In my 15 years’ experience and 400+ weddings, I’ve never been unable to photograph! However, I do have a tight-knit circle of photographer colleagues who I can enlist should anything happen to me. If you opted for a second photographer, they will take over in my place and we will find a suitable second to fill their position. I will never assign a photographer to your wedding that I do not fully trust.
Can I read reviews from past couples?
Most seasoned photographers have reviews available beyond their websites. Don’t forget to search them on The Knot, Google, Zola to get more insight from what collaborators and previous couples have said about their experience working together.
What does LSPC have?
Read my 5-star reviews on The Knot and Google!
Can we have a call or facetime?
On an average wedding day, your photographer may be alongside you for up to 10 hours (sometimes even longer!) so overall vibe and personality are huge factors in your final decision. Request a meeting, call, or video session to help acquaint you with one another, and even alleviate any anxieties you might have about being photographed.
What does LSPC do?
I will set up a call before booking to go over your wedding day details, talk about pricing, work out any custom packages, and answer additional questions. It’s super important to get a feel for each other since we’ll be spending so much time together throughout your big day! I also understand you probably work 9am to 5pm, so I offer flexible meeting times in the evenings.
Will all of my final images be fully edited?
Every photographer is different, but most provide final galleries that are fully edited. Be sure you know exactly what to expect from the final product so you aren’t surprised, like “Sepia Bride,” down the road. Don’t forget: ask for example galleries before booking!
What does LSPC do?
I meticulously edit every single image that will be in your final gallery. This means each of your photos has been fine-tuned, color-balanced, toned, straightened, and treated with care to really pop while remaining natural.
When can I expect my photos to be finished?
It’s vital to have a clear understanding of when you’ll receive your photos after the wedding. Delivery times can range from 4 to 12+ weeks. Of course film processing requires more time than digital, too. Make sure to ask about this, particularly if the photographer does not address it up front — and most important — make sure it’s in your contract!
What does LSPC do?
I deliver full photo galleries between 4 and 6 weeks after the wedding. Engagement sessions are delivered within 2 to 4 weeks. As a fun bonus, I snap vibrant complimentary Polaroids you can take home that night. 🙂
