Maine & New Hampshire Wedding Photographer // Essential Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Hiring

Choosing the right wedding photographer is crucial for capturing the memories of one of the most significant days of your life. As a wedding photographer currently in my ninth season, I’ve encountered numerous questions from couples wanting to ensure they’re making the best choice. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the key questions you should ask any potential wedding photographer to ensure they’re the perfect fit for your special day.

1. How many years have you been doing this?

Experience is a significant factor when it comes to wedding photography. I've been a wedding photographer for nine seasons, which has given me a wealth of experience in handling different wedding styles, venues, and unexpected situations. You want someone who knows how to manage the fast-paced environment of a wedding day and can handle any hiccups with grace and professionalism.

2. Is this your full-time job or a hobby?

Understanding whether photography is a full-time profession or a part-time hobby can make a huge difference. I do this full-time, which means my primary focus and dedication are on capturing weddings and delivering the highest quality service. A full-time photographer is likely to have more availability for meetings, planning sessions, and editing your photos.

3. What kind of experience do you offer?

The experience a photographer provides goes beyond just taking pictures. I pride myself on being deeply involved in the planning process with my clients. This includes assisting with the photo timeline, organizing family formals, and even helping to find vendors if needed. My goal is to alleviate as much stress as possible so you can enjoy your big day to the fullest.

4. How do you light the reception?

Lighting can make or break your wedding photos, especially during the reception. I use off-camera flash and have developed a very distinct lighting style over the years. This technique ensures that your reception photos are beautifully lit, capturing the ambiance and energy of your celebration perfectly. Be sure to ask your photographer about their lighting techniques and see examples of their reception work to ensure their style matches your vision.

5. Can I see multiple FULL galleries of weddings you’ve shot?

Seeing a few highlight photos is great, but it’s crucial to view full galleries of weddings. This gives you a complete picture of a photographer’s work from start to finish. When you look through my full galleries, you should be able to envision your own wedding and feel confident in my ability to capture every important moment, from getting ready to the final dance.

6. Do we vibe well together?

Your wedding photographer will be by your side throughout one of the most important days of your life, so it’s essential that you feel comfortable with them. During our initial meetings, pay attention to how well you connect with me. A good rapport can make a significant difference in how relaxed and natural you feel in front of the camera, which in turn, affects the quality of your photos.

Choosing the right wedding photographer involves more than just liking their portfolio. It’s about ensuring they have the experience, dedication, and personality to make your wedding day seamless and memorable. By asking these key questions, you’ll be well on your way to finding the perfect photographer to capture your special day just as you envision it. If you have any more questions or would like to discuss your wedding photography needs, feel free to reach out. I'm here to help make your wedding day as perfect as possible!