What to Ask a Wedding Photographer Before Signing the Contract

"On my wedding day, I spent more time with my glam squad, planner, and photographer than with my own mother."

Mostly Rational Bride, Yael Mark (2025)

Your photographer’s vibe matters as much as their portfolio. Especially if you’re the kind of person who freezes when a camera points your way or doesn't know what to do when the photographer says, "Look natural," (hi, same) A photographer doesn’t just document the day. They actively shape it.

The right one:

• Makes you laugh without trying

• Gives directions that don’t feel like a military drill

• Creates moments instead of stiff poses

Keep these tips in mind when searching for your wedding day photographer:

Rule #1: Talk to at Least 3 Photographers

Talking to multiple photographers gives you:

• A realistic budget range

• A feel for different personalities and working styles

• Language to describe what you don’t want
  

After the first call, everything feels confusing. After the third, patterns appear.

And suddenly you’re not guessing, you’re choosing.

Rule #2 Ask these questions:

1. What’s your approach on the wedding day (documentary or guided?)

2. Which moments do you focus on the most?

3. Have you shot in this venue before?

4. Can you show a full gallery from a wedding similar to ours?

5. How many edited photos do we get?

6. Do you work with a second photographer? When is that worth it?

7. What happens if you’re sick or there’s an emergency?

8. How long until we receive our photos?

   
   

(Here's a printable version that includes everything you need)

🚩 A Red Flag to Watch For

If you leave the call feeling:

• More anxious than before

• Afraid to ask “dumb” questions

• Like you need to perform or impress them

That feeling won’t magically disappear on your wedding day.

Your photographer should feel like a calming presence, not another thing to manage.

Would I feel comfortable being myself around this person for 8–10 hours on a very emotional day?

Okay… but what questions do I ask everyone else?

Good news. There’s a way to prepare for all vendor interviews without losing your mind. Just go to our digital products tab right here taken from Mostly Rational Bride, and find all vendor interview cheat sheets you need. Get your Mostly Rational Bride copy