Choosing a wedding photographer is kind of a big deal. (Okay, it’s a huge deal.) After all, they’re the ones capturing the hugs, the ugly cries, the epic dance moves, and all those in-between moments you’ll want to relive foreverrrr.
But here’s the thing: not all photographers are the same. (And not every vibe fits every couple!) Asking the right questions can help you find someone who’s not just talented, but who feels like an honorary member of your wedding squad.
If you’re wondering what to ask — don’t worry, I’ve got you. Here’s a list of must-ask questions to bring to your photographer interviews (or your DMs if you’re like me and love a good cozy chat).
1. “How would you describe your photography style?”
📸 Some photographers are all about bright and airy. Others lean into moody and cinematic. Some are documentary-style ninjas; others are a little more posed and editorial.
Pro tip: Make sure their style matches the feel you want for your wedding photos — because editing styles are like fingerprints, and you’ll want to love the way your story is told!
2. “Can we see a full wedding gallery?”
Not just the Instagram highlights — I’m talking the full shebang.
You want to see how your photographer covers everything from getting ready moments to chaotic dance floor energy to low-light ceremony vibes. It’ll help you know if they can handle any light, any setting, etc. Absolutely make sure that when you are looking through full galleries, you are seeing numerous examples of flash portraits, family combinations, etc. If you’re only seeing details & couples portraits – you may be just looking at styled shoots, which means they may not have real wedding photography experience at all.
Check out a full gallery of mine right here!
3. “What’s included in your packages?”
Get all the nitty gritty:
- How many hours of coverage?
- Are engagement sessions included?
- Second shooter — yes or no?
- Any travel fees if you’re getting married somewhere epic?
- How many edited images do we get (and how are they delivered)?
- How much, all fees included? How are the payments broken up?
Here is what I include in all of my wedding packages for couples
Every photographer structures their packages differently, so it’s worth getting super clear!
4. “Have you shot at our venue before?”
If yes — awesome! They’ll know the best light, the best spots, and maybe even a secret shortcut to catch golden hour.
If not — still awesome! A seasoned pro will scout the location ahead of time and roll with whatever’s thrown their way. (Like unexpected rainstorms. Or rogue bears in the Smoky Mountains. True story.)
5. “What happens if you can’t make it on our wedding day?” (And do you have backup equipment?)
No one likes to think about the worst-case scenario, but it’s smart to ask.
A good photographer will have a solid backup plan — whether that’s a trusted network of fellow photographers or an associate shooter ready to step in if something unexpected happens.
And while you’re at it — ask about backup equipment, too.
Things like extra camera bodies, lenses, flashes, and memory cards are a must. (Equipment failures are rare, but photographers who come prepared are the real MVPs.) I come to every wedding with 3 camera bodies, 7 lenses, and multiple flashes and light stands. If one of my camera poops out on me, no worries- I got backups on backups. That’s how it should be because your day can not be redone. Some beginner photographers do not understand the significance here, and unfortunately technological failures happen often. This is so so important.
Bonus points if your photographer is also fully insured — it shows they’re running a professional business and protects everyone involved if something wild happens (like a rogue champagne pop to the lens — yes, it happens!). I am fully insured through Hiscox, and if your photographer is a professional… they will be insured, as well.
6. “How do you handle low-light situations?”
This one’s especially important if your wedding is during sunset, indoors, or basically anywhere that doesn’t scream ‘bright and sunny.’
If a photographer doesn’t know how to use flash (or doesn’t bring backup lighting gear), you might end up with blurry, grainy photos after dark — and nobody wants that. A lot of beginner photographers may have beautiful photos on their socials, but have NO clue how to use flash of any kind – which can really kill the photo quality of your images. And when you are spending that much time, energy, and money putting your wedding day together – the last think you want is photos are barely salvageable because you didn’t know your photographer couldn’t use flash.
7. “When can we expect to see our photos?”
Waiting for your wedding photos can feel like waiting for a pizza delivery when you’re hangry.
Ask about the typical turnaround time for sneak peeks and the full gallery. Some photographers even send a few preview photos within days (🙋♀️ hi, it’s me!), while the full gallery might take 8 or so weeks. Every photographer is different. While one may take 8 weeks, another may take 12-16. Knowing this upfront & not assuming is hugely important. Make sure whatever has been discussed is in the contract, as well!
8. “How do you keep things stress-free on the wedding day?”
Because listen — the last thing you want is to feel like you’re posing for a Sears family photo shoot all day.
A great photographer will be part hype-person, part ninja, part gentle director. (Also part unofficial bouquet holder, family wrangler, and emergency snack supplier if needed.)
9. “Can you help us build a timeline?”
Photographers aren’t just there to show up and shoot. Many (like me!) help couples build a custom photography timeline so you get the best light, avoid feeling rushed, and actually have time to soak it all in.
If your photographer offers this, it’s a huge bonus!
10. “What’s your editing process like?”
Are your images lightly edited? Are blemishes touched up? Can you request minor tweaks if needed?
It’s good to set expectations upfront so there are no surprises later. While I am a very detailed editor (for example, I will edit out something that I find distracting) another photographer who charges less may only offer basic editing (pasting and adjusting a certain editing style to each photo, and nothing more).
Bonus Tip: Pay Attention to the Vibe Check
Even more than the answers they give, notice how you feel when you talk to them.
Are they approachable? Excited about your day? Genuinely invested?
You’ll be spending a huge chunk of your wedding day with your photographer — and honestly, loving their energy is just as important as loving their work. If their work is beautiful, but you can’t stand being around them – trust me, it’s not worth it. Find someone else.
A lot of my couples actually share the same hobbies and values as myself. I always make jokes that I could get all my clients together, and they would all really enjoy each other & become instant friends. But every so often, I get on a call with a couple – and we are just different vibes entirely. That’s okay too! But personality is important. It’s important to know that before you head into your wedding day.
Looking for your wedding photographer soulmate?
👋 Hi, it’s me again! I specialize in micro weddings (85 guests or less), intimate celebrations, and storytelling that’s candid, heartfelt, and full of real moments — the big ones and the blink-and-you’ll-miss-it ones.
If you’re planning a wedding in Michigan (especially Sleeping Bear Dunes, Detroit, or Traverse City!), or you’re dreaming up a destination day, I’d love to hear all about it.
✨ Click here to connect with me! ✨
Let’s create something beautiful together.
©Cheleana Rowan, with Cheleanamarie Photography, 2015-2025. Unauthorized use and or duplication of this material without express and written consent from Cheleana Rowan is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full clear credit is given to Cheleana Rowan with Cheleanamarie Photography with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
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