Pictures, pictures, pictures.....What you need to know

Pictures, pictures, pictures.....
A significant part of your wedding planning involves selecting who will record the day’s memories. Do your homework! There are no “take two’s”. Is she or he personable and not likely to add extra stress; independent or the type who prefers total direction? Choosing someone you can work with in harmony will avoid any “over exposed” distress from revealing in your photos.

Once you’ve narrowed your selection, pose these questions up front to ensure your expectations will be met without any surprises or disappointments.

Do you have a portfolio?

Unless hiring your Uncle Bob (not recommended unless he is a professional), your photographer should have a portfolio. Notice whether photos are framed and centered well, photos are over- or underexposed, lighting is effective, details are visible people look comfortable and relaxed.

Have you shot many weddings?

Make sure he or she has experience. Your wedding doesn’t have to be the “maiden voyage”.

How many weddings will the photographer shoot on your wedding weekend (or even on your wedding day)?

Will his or her concentration be on you, or making his next gig?

Do you have any references?

It’s always a good idea to follow up with references. Call and ask whether others were satisfied. Did the photographer get all of the "usual shots"? Has the photographer responded promptly to orders?

Are you familiar with my reception and ceremony sites?

Unusual lighting or restrictions on using flashes shouldn't be a surprise on your wedding day. A good photographer will take a trip to scout out the area before the big day and have ideas about where you can take outdoor shots.

Will you take the photos yourself?

Make sure the person whose portfolio you’ve reviewed and met with is the one taking the photos, and not just part of the same group or company. Check that the person you have selected has their name on the contract.

Do you bring an assistant or second photographer?

While many photographers these days like to bring along a second photographer from the shop to make sure to get all necessary photos, this usually means an extra cost for you. Generally, though, the photographer will bring an assistant who is an apprentice and will ensure all photo needs are met.

If the photographer is ill, what is the backup plan?

You never know what could happen, so make sure your choice has comparable backup in case of emergency.

What style do you prefer to shoot?

Is he or she comfortable taking traditional, candid and posed photos? Communicate clearly about your favorite style and what you want.

How many photos will be color . . . black and white?

You should have an idea about how many color and black and white photos you want.

Do you use real black and white film, or just print color film in black and white?

With true black and white film, your photos will be clearer and more effective than just printing color film in black and white (which makes photos look grayish). However, the extra film may add to your total cost.

Are you open to my list of "must takes"?

Make sure your photographer is open to taking direction on shots you really want.

How many rolls of film will be shot?

The more rolls, the more photos you'll have to choose from. However, if you're paying by the roll, you may want to set a limit.

How is price determined?

Make sure you understand this up front. Is it by the number and kind of prints you'll order, number of rolls, hours the photographer spends on your wedding, developing time, or a combination of the above factors? Ask if there is a charge for overtime and travel costs.

When is payment due?

Can you hold off payment until you get the proofs?

Are packages available?

Most offer various packages to suit couples with different needs.

Can I have a price list?

You’ll be prepared when its time to order photos.

What kinds of cameras and other equipment does the photographer use?

This will give you an idea about the photographer's experience and knowledge.

Does the photographer develop his own film?

How long will he or she keep negatives?

Can you buy your negatives from the photographer?



Once you've found a photographer with the skill set, style and personality you're looking for, you'll need to agree on a contract. Check out our recommendations for what contract provisions you should include to ensure you’re not “overexposed” and avoid extra “negatives”.



You've done your research...now the contract...

You’ve asked all the right questions and thoroughly conducted your research to find a wedding photographer who will capture the event in style. To avoid any “negatives” make sure that you’re agreement is in writing with your photographer’s “John Hancock” obtained in advance of the big day.

A contract is for your protection to help ensure that all parties are clear on obligations and expectations. You have entered into a relationship with your photographer, and as with any healthy and successful relationship, open communication is decisive to avoiding regrets or aggravation (probably works with the groom too). Be clear about your expectations before hand, and be as accommodating as you can to ensure the photographer is successful. If you are dead set on certain shots, give your photographer a list beforehand. If there any questions, make sure the issues are fleshed out before you sign.

Your contract should cover these key issues:

Name and contact information for you and your photographer

Correct date(s) of events, including rehearsal dinner if applicable and wedding

Starting times, and number of hours the photographer will be present and working

Locations (rehearsal dinner, home, ceremony, reception) where the photographer will be expected to shoot, with exact addresses

Name of the photographer who will shoot your wedding and the number of assistants

Number and kind(s) of cameras to be used

Subjects to be covered, such as pre-wedding, ceremony, cocktail hour and reception

Details regarding your particular package including the number of rolls of film to be shot (color and black and white), number of proofs you'll receive, style of your wedding album and other package details you have decided on before hand

Date your proofs will be ready and how long you can keep them

When and how you'll receive your order (albums, prints) once you place it, and any other delivery details

Length of time the photographer will keep your negatives

Total cost (itemized if possible)

Overtime fee, if applicable

Reorder price, if you decide to order additional prints later

Deposit amount due

Balance, date due and method of payment acceptable

Cancellation and refund policy

Name of an acceptable substitute in case of emergency

In the event of equipment failure, a guarantee that a backup camera will be on hand

Photographer's signature

You’re signature

Be sure to make a few copies and glance at again closer to your wedding day.

Place your contract in position ahead of time, so you can focus on putting your hair in place on the big day—which should give you plenty of reasons to smile.