Hiring a wedding photographer can send any bride into a tizzy. There may be several websites you are in love with- how do you chose? To start, ask the right questions when interviewing. It is easy to ask a question that really doesn’t give you the insight you need into who the photographer is…so here are a few tips.

Instead of: What is your style of photography? Try: What does a typical wedding day look like from your perspective?

Styles range from photographer to photographer and can have very different meanings for each individual. You will get to know more about how your day will be photographed and how it will unfold with a different approach. You have already seen the photographer’s portfolio and love their work (otherwise don’t have this conversation). So here is your opportunity to find out more about the flow of the day and how the photographer will be dealing with the different segments of the day. This can also lead to a timeline conversation which is a necessity from any photographer.

Instead of: Do you have a second photographer? Try: How do you cover all the aspects of our wedding?

People always assume that more is better- the more photographers you have the better photos there will be. This is simply not the case. The RIGHT photographer(s) are better. Some weddings I hire a second photographer because of the size of the wedding or the length of the day. But there are plenty of other times where all I need is an assistant who does not shoot but helps with equipment and lighting OR just one professional photographer to capture everything in an amazing way.

Instead of: Do we own the copyright to all of our images? Try: What rights do we have with our digital files?

Most wedding photographers will include digital files in their Collections. The copyright holder is the creator of the images. What you want is to be able to freely reproduce and prints those files from any company and as many times as you would like for personal use. Holding the copyright does NOT mean you can print your files, so be clear with your photographer about your intentions and make sure you are given the proper release if needed.

Instead of: Can I give you a shot list? Try: How do you decide what images should be taken and can I be a part of the decision process?

A shot list is limiting, and takes away from the creativity of the artist. Hopefully you love your wedding photographer’s portfolio and with the right questions you are getting a sense of how great he/she will be to work with- don’t stifle this professional with a list of shots you “must have”. Trust that you have hired the right person to do the job to the best of their abilities. That being said, you can certainly talk to your photographer about your needs such as family groupings etc, and if you have anything specific like a special aspect of the ceremony or a unique wedding exit that you want to make sure is captured. Communication is the key!

Please check in next week for more “Which Questions to Ask Your Photographer: Part II”