5 Questions to Ask Before Booking a Wedding Photographer

Choosing the right wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions in planning your big day. Your photographer doesn’t just take pictures—they capture memories, emotions, and the story of your wedding. Asking the right questions before booking ensures you find someone whose style, personality, and process align with your vision. Here are five essential questions to ask before hiring a wedding photographer, with tips and examples from my experience as a Chicago wedding photographer.

1. What is Your Photography Style?

Understanding a photographer’s style ensures your images will match your vision:

• Candid vs. Posed: Some photographers focus on natural, spontaneous moments, while others emphasize traditional, posed portraits.

• Editorial vs. Lifestyle: Editorial styles often feel like magazine spreads, while lifestyle photography focuses on storytelling and authentic moments.

  
  

Example: A couple booked me because they loved candid, storytelling images. They wanted emotions and interactions documented rather than stiff posed shots, and their gallery reflects that personal touch.

2. What is Included in Your Packages?

Wedding photography packages can vary widely:

• Hours of Coverage: Determine if it covers the full day or only part of it.

• Edited Images: Ask how many images are delivered and in what format.

• Additional Services: Albums, engagement sessions, or second shooters may be included or optional.

  
  

Tip: Make sure all expectations are clearly outlined in the contract to avoid surprises on your wedding day.

3. How Do You Handle Unexpected Situations?

Weddings rarely go exactly as planned, so it’s important to know how your photographer handles challenges:

• Weather Changes: For outdoor weddings, ask about backup plans for rain or snow.

• Timing Adjustments: Delays or unexpected schedule changes are common; ensure the photographer is flexible.

• Equipment Failures: Professional photographers should have backup cameras and lenses.

  
  

Example: During a Chicago rooftop wedding, unexpected rain forced a venue switch. Having a backup indoor location and quick adaptability allowed us to capture beautiful, seamless images without stress.

4. Can We See Full Wedding Galleries?

Looking at full galleries—not just highlight reels—gives insight into a photographer’s consistency and storytelling ability:

• Lighting and Editing Consistency: Check how images look in different lighting conditions.

• Candid Moments Captured: Ensure the photographer documents authentic reactions.

• Complete Storytelling: Full galleries show how the day flows from start to finish.

  
  

Tip: Ask to see weddings with similar venues, season, or size as yours for the most relevant examples.

5. How Do You Make Couples Feel Comfortable?

A photographer’s personality affects the quality of your photos:

• Comfort Level: Couples who feel at ease produce more natural, authentic images.

• Guidance: Some photographers direct poses subtly, while others allow for organic moments.

• Engagement Sessions: These help couples build rapport with their photographer before the wedding.

  
  

Example: For a spring engagement session in Chicago, we focused on relaxed, playful poses. By the wedding day, the couple was comfortable, resulting in authentic, joyful images.

Final Thoughts

Asking these five questions before booking a wedding photographer ensures you find a professional who aligns with your vision, handles challenges seamlessly, and makes you feel confident in front of the camera. Your photographer will not only capture your wedding day but preserve the emotions and memories you’ll cherish forever.

CTA: Planning your Chicago wedding? Contact Bryte Media LLC today to book a wedding photographer who captures every meaningful moment.