Preparing for Your Initial Consultation

First things first, meet with the person you're hoping to book - this is non-negotiable. For my clients I always want to meet with you via phone, video chat or in person to discuss all things about your upcoming elopement/wedding! The consultation provides you with valuable information to make an informed decision. You will be spending your whole day, and some very intimate moments with this person so meeting with them is just as important - if not more important than reviewing their portfolio.

Now that we have established just how important it is to ensure you set up a meeting prior to booking - now we will dive into what important information to bring with you & questions you should ask.

What to Ask?

Now, let's get into some helpful questions to ask if they don't come up in conversation. In order to make an informed decision you want to gather additional information during this first meeting.

Questions to ask that will help you decide if you're a match

How do you want your clients to feel when they see their photos?

This is key if it's important to you that your photos reflect the love and energy of your special day. If you are a couple who celebrates romance and the love between you, you want to make sure that you find someone who values that experience for their couples.

HOW DO YOU MAKE COUPLES FEEL COMFORTABLE IN FRONT OF THE CAMERA?

You're asking this to see if this would match what would fit your personality - as a couple.

WHAT DO YOU NOTICE MOST ON A WEDDING DAY?

Ask about what they notice, it may feel weird however what they notice and the parts they are most drawn to will inform you have what they will focus on. You want the things that are important to you to match the things they notice most. If you are a couple who cherishes small moments and little details that is important that your photographer notices those pieces. Your photographer can help you curate the way you want your whole day to feel.

WHAT IS YOUR APPROACH TO PHOTOGRAPHING A WEDDING DAY?

WHAT WILL IT LOOK LIKE ON THE DAY OF?

You don't have to know exactly what you're hoping for here, however your photographer should be able to tell you what their focus is and what their workflow looks like on a wedding day - from getting ready to reception. Ask any questions that come up along the way!

Practical questions to ease your mind

What is included in your packages?

Important you know what is included and what is in add on. If you know you want certain things you can discuss that (for example a printed wedding album) and ask what they offer.

Do you support couples with building their timeline?

Ask if they help you build your timeline, or have information to help guide you with this.

Also - you can ask how they do this with a planner/coordinator if you're planning to book one.

Are you available for us to consult if we have questions along the way?

Discuss what that support looks like and ensure it aligns with your expectations.

Do you feel comfortable shooting at venues you haven't shot at before?

This is more important then asking if they have shot at your venue before - you can absolutely ask however it's not a deal breaker if you're booking someone who is truly comfortable and skilled behind the camera. Photographers can do site visits if they prefer ahead of an event and if they have or have not photographed at a location before - it should not take them long to establish a plan when they arrive.

DO YOU HAVE A BACK-UP PLAN IF YOU HAVE ISSUES WITH YOUR EQUIPMENT?

You always want to ensure your photographer has more than one camera!

what are your policies if we need to cancel or reschedule?

What are your policies if there is an emergency and you are not able to photograph our wedding?

Ask about their policies for emergencies - will they find someone else to take the photos at the wedding? What does that look like? What happens with the money you have paid if there is a cancellation? All very important to ensure you have clear understanding of the contract language.