You’ve been planning your wedding for months and have everything perfectly mapped out, except for the photographer. Don’t panic, hiring a wedding photographer is simple with the right preparation.

Below is a helpful list of questions to ask if you’re in the process of looking for a wedding photographer.

• How far in advance should I book? Wedding photographers can only shoot one wedding per day.  So they book up more quickly than many expect.
• How many weddings have you photographed? An experienced photographer will have several years of service and several hundred weddings under their belt.
• What style is your expertise? Whether you want your photographer to be unobtrusive or more involved in your day, is is important to make sure your styles match
• Do you use a shot list? You should be able to count on your photographer to shoot the important moments of your day.  But a shot list for family formal photos is a big help to a photographer.
• What type of equipment do you use? You want to make sure your photographer is using professional grade gear rather than the semi-pro dslr’s on the market.
• What information will you need from me? Know what homework you’ll need to do.
• Can you describe your photography style? Don’t settle for trendy terms like “photo-journalist” or “story teller”. Make sure they describe those terms so you both agree with what they mean.
• How long will it take until I receive my photos?  This time frame should be included in your contract.
• How much is required for a deposit? And when are other deposits due?
• Can other people take photos while you are? Most professional photographers will insist that they are the only professional photographer shooting your wedding.  So beware of DJ’s promising they’ll shoot your wedding too.
• How long will you shoot for? You should review your full time line with your photographer to make sure they are covering the most important parts of your day.
• If the wedding goes longer than expected, will you stay and is there a fee?  Be prepared  for any overtime charges.
• Do you have a backup plan if you are not able to attend my wedding?  Wedding professionals are used to missing important personal life events to attend their client’s special days.  We go to work regardless of weather, health or personal life.  But if there is a medical emergency, a professional photographer needs a backup plan.

In addition to the information provided by these questions, it’s also important you actually LIKE your wedding photographer.  You’re going to be spending a lot of time with them on your wedding day!  So when it comes to hiring a wedding photographer, do your homework and listen to your gut.  They’re both important!

If you have questions regarding Nikki Cole’s photography, fill out the contact form to receive more information. Nikki has photographed a multitude of venues and various wedding styles. Your wedding day should never make you feel overwhelmed or anxious, especially when it comes to the photos!