• How would you describe your style? In order to really be happy with your wedding photos,  you have to know the photographer’s style, and love it. If you don’t love it, then there is no reason you will love your photos when they are done.
• Are you familiar with my venue? Make sure your photographer is prepared. If they are familiar, then they already know what conditions and settings they are limited (or not limited) to. If they are not familiar with the venue, give your photographer the address, to ensure they will be able to scout out the area. Preparation does wonder to ease the stress!!
• Will you have a shot list? Every photographer should have a list of must have shots (whether physical or mental).
• Will you be the main photographer? Will the person you have done most of your dealings with be the main photographer?
• Do you shoot with an assistant/second shooter? Does it cost extra? You can never have too many photos of your big day. =)
• Will my wedding be the only even you shoot that weekend? A wedding is a full day experience. Be sure your wedding is the only event your photographer has planned for your weekend. You don’t want your photographer showing up to your wedding exhausted from yesterday’s event, and their equipment not properly recharged.
• Do you shoot film or digital? Does your photographer shoot with a digital camera, or film camera?? Do you, as the bride or groom, have a preference?
• What kind of equipment will you bring?
• What happens if you cannot make our event? Most photographers have this covered in their contract. Make sure yours does too.
• Does your package include the high res photos on a disc? If it’s important for you to have your photos on a disc for your own personal use, make sure this is included in your photographer’s packaging, or at least available as an a la carte item. Not every photographer offers this service.
• Do they have liability insurance? Better safe than sorry.
• Are you a part of any associations specific to your field? Find out what kind of involvement your photographer has in his/her community.
• Do you shoot mostly color, or black and white? Find out what your options are. If you’re a big black and white fan, let your photographer know.
• Can I prepare a shot list? This is your big day. You should have a say in what you want. Trust your photographer to know the essentials (bride & groom, groom & parents, bride & parents, etc.), but if there are certain shots you want captures that are a special request, don’t feel hesitant to let your photographer know. Be sure you have someone willing to work with what you want.
• Do you provide a written contract? This is a must for any photographer. Make sure you have read the contract, and you understand it.
• Do you charge for overtime? Sometimes it happens. You only have your photographer for a certain amount of time, and you’re not quite ready to let them go for the evening.
• What is the photographer’s rate? The old saying holds very true:: ‘You get what you pay for!’ Many photographers advertise super cheap prices but, too often, the client gets substandard work, poorly printed photographs, and many other problems that hiring a true professional would avoid. Remember, your photographs are the only thing from your wedding that lasts. It’s an investment in something that will be there for you for years to come.
• Can other people take photos while photographer is? Find out your photographer’s policy on friends, families, and other professionals shooting while they are. Chances are, for friends and family, as long as they are not in the way, most photographers will not have an issue. I do know that most photographers do not permit other professional photographers to take photos, though.
• How long after wedding will the proofs be ready? Ask your photographer normally how long you will have to wait to view your finished photos.
• Ask the photographer how they store their images to prevent loss or damage? Does your photographer have a process to help prevent this?
• How many images do you normally deliver? It’s always good to know.
• What about photo albums? If you are interested in photo albums, find out what your photographer offers. Some, like myself, offer them in package. Or they can be added a la cart.
• Do you provide parent albums? Mom and Dad need an album too!
• Why do you shoot weddings? And lastly, get your photographer’s take on why they started shooting weddings to begin with. It will give you an insight into their perspective.

I hope this post was helpful to you, and if you feel I’ve left out any important questions, comment below!!