Ask The Photographer / Questions to Ask Before You Book a Wedding Photographer - Part 1

Just added: Have my assistant take behind the scenes photos regularly… because this is the only “BTS” shot I could find from the past wedding season!

I’ve been asked many questions throughout my decade as a photographer. I really believe there are no wrong questions…buuut there are some that are more right than others.

One question I get asked a lot when meeting with potential brides and grooms is how do I handle different parts of the day? What is my shooting style? Will I be loud and demanding, quiet and timid? Everyone has a horror story from some wedding they went to where maybe a vendor was too overbearing or possibly one that just stood by and waited for things to happen. So I completely understand the importance of this question.

But while I understand it, I also have gotten the sense that the clients asking aren't always entirely sure what they want the answer to be. This is also understanding! I mean, you don't want a photographer yelling directions during your ceremony (gosh I hope that's never happened!) but you also don't want a photographer who doesn't take charge during family formals. That always leads to chaos.

So what should you look for in an answer to this question? First of all, it doesn't matter if a photographer is a super outgoing, friendly extrovert or a more reserved, quiet introvert. Both personality types have their strengths, but they both need to be adaptable.

It's so important to be interactive during portrait time. Getting ready too but MOSTLY portrait time. Nobody will know what to do if the photographer doesn't direct this portion of the day. There are just some parts of the day that your photographer will need to be in control in order to get the shots and keep everyone on schedule as much as possible.

Photos for this blog are from the Rion’s beautiful Cedar Rapids, IA wedding in September, 2019.

And it's equally important that a photographer be discreet during parts of the day. Things like the first look, ceremony and sentimental parts of the reception (toasts, first dance, etc.) are times that you shouldn’t even know the photographer is there.

I know I've said this before, but this is just ANOTHER reason to do an engagement session with your photographer! It's one thing for them to tell you they rock at shooting weddings. It's another thing entirely to see them in action.

So, the FIRST question to make sure you ask your wedding photographer before booking - How do you plan to direct the different parts of my wedding day in order to get the photos like what I see in your portfolio?

Keep an eye out for more blogs in this series about questions to ask your photographer!