What to Ask When You're Looking for a Wedding Photographer
Hiring a wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make while planning your wedding—after all, they’re the ones preserving the memories you’ll look back on forever. But it can be overwhelming to know exactly what to ask during your search.
To help, we tapped into expert insight from professional wedding photographers across Canada —including 515 Photo Co., Emily Michelson, Sara Claudia Photo, and Kaela Leone – to break down the most important questions couples should be asking before they sign the contract.
515 PHOTO CO. / SARA CLAUDIA PHOTO
1. Can we see a few full wedding galleries?
While social media feeds and websites give you a glimpse of a photographer’s highlight reel, they don’t tell the full story. Asking to view full wedding galleries lets you see how they capture an entire day—from getting ready to the dance floor. Look for storytelling consistency, how they handle lighting in different settings, and whether the emotional moments come through clearly.
Tip from Kaela Leone: “Pay attention to consistency, storytelling, and how they capture different lighting situations.”
2. How would you describe your approach on a wedding day?
Every photographer has a unique style—not just visually, but also in how they interact on the day. Some are very hands-on with posing and direction, while others take a more documentary or fly-on-the-wall approach.
From Sara Claudia: “So many couples think they want ‘documentary-style’ without realizing that means less posing. So it is a really good way for couples to understand if they love that approach or realize they need more direction and producing than that.”
From Kaela Leone: “There’s no right or wrong approach—it’s about what feels most comfortable for you. Understanding how a photographer works can help you envision how it’ll feel to be photographed by them and ensure it aligns with your preferences and energy”
3. What’s your directing or posing style like?
Do you prefer someone who takes charge and helps you pose, or someone who quietly captures natural moments? This ties into personality, so it’s important to ask how a photographer directs couples and bridal parties.
From Emily Michelson: “Ask about their personality and directing style. Do they bring the energy? Do they give lots of direction or let things flow naturally?”
4. Do you shoot film as well as digital?
Digital is standard for many photographers, but some also offer film photography for couples looking for a vintage or artistic touch. If you're into the look of film, ask if they offer it and how those images are delivered.
From 515 Photo Co: “Ask if they photograph film alongside digital. It can be a beautiful complement if that’s your style.”
SARAH CLAUDIA PHOTO / EMILY MICHELSON
5. How long will it take to receive our photos?
Turnaround times vary widely. Some photographers deliver previews within a week and full galleries in 6–10 weeks; others may take longer depending on the season.
Ask: “How soon after the wedding can we expect the full edited gallery?”
6. How many images can we expect?
It’s helpful to know the range of photos you’ll get based on the number of hours you book. This can help manage expectations, especially if you’re booking full-day coverage.
From 515 Photo Co: “Ask how many images you’ll receive for an 8–10 hour day.”
7. Are you open to inspiration images or a shot list?
Some couples want specific photos captured—whether it’s a vintage veil moment, a champagne tower, or a candid shot inspired by Pinterest. Find out how your photographer handles inspo and requests. Some photographers welcome inspiration images, others prefer to shoot freely—make sure you're on the same page.
8. Have you photographed at our venue before?
Familiarity with your venue isn’t essential, but it can be helpful. If they haven’t been there before, ask how they prepare for new locations and lighting scenarios. Even if they haven’t shot your venue, a great photographer will scout it out beforehand or arrive early to get a feel for it.
9. What’s your favourite part of a wedding day?
This question is a little more personal—and that's the point. It gives you insight into what your photographer values and how they connect emotionally with the day. It always leads to a more meaningful conversation and helps connect beyond the basics.
From Sara Claudia: “When couples ask me what I love most about my job, I feel like it gives them a lot of insight into my overall values and approach.”
Final Thoughts
You’re not just hiring someone to take pretty pictures – you’re inviting them into one of the most emotional, high-energy, and intimate days of your life. Asking thoughtful questions helps ensure that your personalities align and that you trust them to capture your wedding day exactly how you envision it!
