Most wedding vendor problems come from things nobody asked about until the contract was signed. Take these questions to every wedding photographer you meet, compare the answers side by side, and get the important ones written into the contract.
When to book: couples usually book photographers and videographers about 9–12 months ahead, earlier for peak-season Saturdays (May–June and September–October).
The Questions
- Can we see two or three full wedding galleries, not just highlights?
- Will you personally shoot our wedding, or an associate? Is a second shooter included?
- How many hours of coverage are included, and what does an extra hour cost?
- How many edited photos should we expect, and when will we receive them?
- Do we get a print release and full-resolution files? How long do you keep backups?
- How do you handle low light, indoor ceremonies and flash?
- What is your plan if you are sick or your equipment fails?
- Do you carry liability insurance? Some venues require it.
- Are engagement photos, albums or prints included or extra?
- What are the deposit, payment schedule and cancellation terms?
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Tips
- Look at full galleries in conditions like yours (indoor, night, rain).
- Give your photographer a short shot list of family groupings.
- Plan a 10–15 minute buffer for family photos per group of five.
Before You Sign
- Get the date, start and end times, exact services, total price and payment schedule in writing.
- Read the cancellation, postponement and refund terms.
- Check that the business name on the contract matches the one you researched.
- Pay deposits by credit card where possible, for buyer protection.