When you have a consultation with photographers, you should treat it like an interview and bring lots and lots of questions. After all, isn’t that pretty much exactly what it is? But if you are anything like me…you might draw a blank when it comes to WHAT questions to ask.

After nearly a decade in the wedding industry, and now having spent the larger proportion of that as a photographer, I have been asked a million different questions, but there are a few that consistently come up. These are five for-sures questions for photographers that you should ask if they aren’t covered by your conversation:

1. WHAT IS YOUR POSING PROCESS?

This will say a lot about the photographs you can expect. No doubt their answer will range from being fully candid to strictly posed (all of us land somewhere on that spectrum). Before you ask this question, though, check with yourself about what YOU want–what level of posing will you want to get the photos you need.

2. HOW DO YOU HANDLE THE PRINT RELEASE?

A “print release” is what gives you the permission to print photos on your own, outside of the photography studio. Some photographers give complete permission, others might have a few requirements before it is granted. You deserve to know what the process is so you know how you will be able to enjoy your memories.

3. MAY WE SEE A SAMPLE GALLERY?

This is one of the most important questions for photographers, as it can give you a good idea about a lot of things in regards to working with someone. It will show the cohesiveness of their style and it will give an idea of the variety of images you could expect. 

4. WHAT IS YOUR BACKGROUND? 

Some of us are trained as artists, some as journalists; others have been self taught because of a love of pretty things. There is no wrong answer, but it is an answer you deserve to hear so you know where the photographer comes from to give you an idea of where the three of you are going.

5. WHY DO YOU LOVE WEDDINGS?

Of all the questions for photographers, this is probably my favorite. You are spending a ton of money on your wedding; you deserve someone who feels the same way about your day as you do. This will give you a good indication if you share the same vibe, and that will be beyond important come your wedding day.

These five questions will help you sort out the who’s who of your wedding world. Need or want more question ideas as well as a place to record answers? Download this Photographer Meeting Organizer to help you keep track of your thoughts as you make your decision!

Kayla Lee is a Minnesota-based wedding and elopement photographer. She provides services to elegant, authentic, sentimental couples who not only choose their own adventures, but also live them to the fullest! See more about the KLP Wedding Experience!