Choosing the right wedding photographer is one of the most important aspects of planning your wedding. It’s important to ask the right questions during your consultation to ensure you find the perfect match. Below is a list of some key questions to guide your conversation and help you make an informed decision.

Keep in mind that, in addition to these questions, you should also pay attention to the photographer’s personality, communication style, and professionalism, as these traits are just as important in the decision-making process.

1. What Is Your Primary Photography Style?

Start with this question to ensure the photographer’s style aligns with your vision. At Jason Robles Photography we specialize in a blend of photojournalism and fine-art photography. If you're interested in a photojournalistic approach, make sure the photographer you're considering specializes in this style. For more information on what to look for in a wedding photographer's style, take a look at “Our Photography Style.”

2. How Many Weddings Have You Shot, and Have You Worked on Weddings Similar to Mine?

This question gives you an understanding of the photographer’s experience level. Don’t rely solely on the number of years they’ve been in business—some photographers may shoot only a few weddings a year, which doesn’t necessarily mean they’re experienced.

3. How Many Weddings Have You Shot Specifically as a Wedding Photographer?

This is an important follow-up question to assess whether the photographer specializes in weddings (or some other genre, such as family photography, sports photography, etc.). It's essential to hire someone who focuses on weddings, as wedding photography involves specific skills that general photographers may not possess. Specialized photographers also tend to be more familiar with the unique demands and flow of a wedding day.

4. How Many Weddings Will You Photograph on My Wedding Weekend?

If you're working with a larger studio, it's common for photographers to shoot multiple weddings in one weekend. This isn’t usually an issue, as larger studios have multiple photographers to handle this. However, smaller studios may have just one photographer handling multiple weddings, which could affect the quality of service and attention to your event. Be sure to clarify this upfront.

5. Will You Provide a Contract for Your Services? Can I Review It in Advance?

A contract is essential for your protection as well as your photographer’s. It should outline services, pricing, cancellation policies, and other important terms. Do not hire a photographer (or any other vendor) who doesn’t offer a contract, as this could indicate a lack of professionalism—and, more importantly, it could put you at risk!

6. What Happens if the Photographer Gets Sick or Cannot Make It?

While rare, illness can happen. It’s important to know the photographer’s plan for this scenario. We have a team of experienced photographers who can step in seamlessly if someone falls ill, ensuring your wedding day is never compromised.

7. Do You Have Insurance?

A professional photographer (and any other vendor, for that matter) should have both business and liability insurance. This coverage not only protects the photographer’s equipment but also provides liability protection in case of accidents—like a guest tripping over a light stand. If a photographer lacks insurance, it could be a red flag that they’re new to the business or not taking it seriously.

8. Does the Package I’m Interested in Include a Second Shooter or Assistant?

If your wedding has 100 or more guests, it’s advisable to opt for a package that includes a second photographer. A single photographer cannot possibly capture every key moment, such as the first kiss and the emotional reactions of loved ones, simultaneously. A second shooter ensures all critical moments are documented from different angles.

9. Who Will Be My Second Shooter?

It’s important that your photographer works with a consistent second shooter, not someone they’ve never worked with before. Many inexperienced and/or amateur photographers search for second shooters each time they book a wedding (often through social media, such as Facebook groups). It is highly preferable to have an experienced second shooter that works with your photographer on a regular basis, as they will not only be familiar with the photographer’s style and workflow but will also be able to assist more effectively, ensuring a smooth experience on the day of your wedding.

10. Can I Choose a Specific Style for Post-Production?

Post-production is a significant factor in the final look of your images. Some photographers deliver images straight out of the camera without editing, which usually results in unfinished, inconsistent, amateur-looking photographs. At Jason Robles Photography we encourage you to choose the editing style you prefer for your album, ensuring a final product that meets your vision.

11. Will You Color Correct and Edit All of My Images?

Color correction is essential for achieving high-quality wedding photos. Some photographers may only color correct a selection of images, which can result in inconsistency across your photos, improper color balance, improper skin tones, etc. We color correct every single image to ensure the entire album meets a professional standard.

12. What Kind of Equipment Do You Use? Do You Have Backup Equipment?

A wedding photographer should use high-quality, professional grade equipment, including reliable camera bodies and lenses. They should also have backup gear in case of equipment failure. Make sure your photographer uses reputable equipment and has the necessary backups, such as extra cameras, lenses, and memory cards, to avoid any mishaps during your event.

13. What Is Your Policy if My Wedding Goes over the Contracted Time?

Wedding days often run longer than expected, so it’s important to know your photographer’s policy on overtime. Clarify any additional costs upfront to avoid unexpected fees later on. Be sure to agree on the details in advance, such as hourly rates or flat fees for extended coverage.

14. What Will You and Your Team Wear?

Your photographer and their assistants should dress appropriately for your wedding. The attire should be professional, unobtrusive, and respectful of the occasion’s formality. Our team always wears black attire to blend in with the guests and avoid drawing attention to ourselves. Be sure your photographer’s dress code aligns with the tone of your event.

15. How Long After the Wedding Will My Photos Be Ready?

Every photography studio has its own timeline for delivering wedding photos. While some photographers might promise quick turnarounds (sometimes within a week), those that offer detailed post-production and color correction usually need significantly more time. We typically deliver wedding galleries within 4-6 weeks to ensure the entire album meets our high professional standards.

Choosing a wedding photographer is a big decision, but asking the right questions can help you find a photographer who is experienced, professional, and a perfect fit for your big day. Keep these questions in mind as you start your search, and don’t hesitate to reach out with any additional concerns to ensure you feel confident in your choice.