What to Ask Your Wedding Photographer (and to Watch Out For)
When you start planning your wedding, choosing a photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The cake will be eaten, the flowers will fade, but your photos are the one thing that lasts a lifetime.
Still, most couples tell me the same thing when we sit down to chat: “We don’t even know what to ask a photographer.”And that’s completely normal. You’re not supposed to be an expert on wedding photography—that’s my job.
So let’s imagine we’re sitting across from each other with coffee in hand. You’ve got your wedding date circled in your planner, and you’re wondering how to make sure your memories are safe. I’ll walk you through the best things to bring up with any photographer, the answers you deserve to hear, and the red flags that should make you pause.
Booking Your Photographer: How Soon Is Too Soon?
Most couples start here: “When should we book you?”
Here’s the truth: wedding photography is one of the first vendors you should secure. In the Pacific Northwest—especially around Seattle—prime weekends in summer and fall can book out 12–18 months in advance.
If you’re planning a destination wedding or tying the knot on a holiday weekend, the earlier you reach out, the better. Even if your date feels far away, locking in your photographer early gives you peace of mind and guarantees you’re working with someone whose style you love.
✨ Red Flag: A photographer who seems wide-open for every prime date might be new (which isn’t always bad) or may be struggling to book consistently. Ask questions about their recent work to make sure you’re comfortable with their experience.
Solo or Team: Who’s Actually Photographing Your Wedding?
Couples often ask, “Do you shoot alone or bring a second photographer?”
Personally, I usually photograph weddings solo. I love being able to tell your story myself, moving quietly and blending into the day. But for larger weddings, multiple getting-ready locations, or when you want both perspectives at the same time (like both of you walking down the aisle), I highly recommend adding a second shooter, sometimes two shooters is essential to telling your story.
A second photographer is also helpful for fast-paced timelines, where moments are happening in two places at once.
✨ Red Flag: If a photographer refuses to bring in help when it’s clear your wedding would benefit from extra coverage, it might mean you’ll miss important moments in your gallery.
Editing, Raw Files, and Style: What Are You Really Getting?
At some point, you’ll probably ask, “Do you edit all the photos?”
The answer you should hear is yes. Editing is part of the artistry—it’s where your gallery comes together in a cohesive, timeless way. At Vow House, every image you receive is fully edited in my signature style: moody, cinematic, and emotional.
Some couples wonder about raw files. Think of it this way: raw files are like film negatives—they’re unfinished. They don’t represent the final product and they aren’t part of the storytelling process. That’s why I don’t deliver them. What I deliver is polished, complete, and ready to be framed or cherished for decades.
✨ Red Flag: If a photographer only edits a handful of images or offers to “dump” raw files, you may not end up with a gallery that feels consistent or professional.
Timelines: How Long Will It Take to Get Our Photos?
Nobody wants to wait forever to see their wedding photos. That’s why I promise sneak peeks within one week of your wedding. You’ll have images to share, relive, and print right away.
Your full gallery is usually delivered within 8–10 weeks, depending on the season. For couples planning around holiday cards or gifts, I recommend scheduling your wedding date with this in mind so you’ll have your images when you need them.
✨ Red Flag: Beware of photographers who can’t give you a clear delivery timeline. Vague answers like “a few months, maybe six” are a sign of poor communication and lack of structure.
How Many Photos Will You Receive?
This one comes up all the time: “How many photos do we get?”
For a full-day wedding (8–10 hours), I typically deliver 600–900 finished images. That might sound like a lot, but remember—a wedding is filled with moments. From candid laughter to quiet details, every little piece adds up to your story.
I don’t cap the number of photos. If a moment matters, it’s included in your gallery.
✨ Red Flag: A promise of “thousands” of images can be a gimmick. Often that means less editing, rushed culling, or prioritizing quantity over quality.
What If Something Goes Wrong? Backup Plans & Reliability
One of the most important questions couples overlook is: “What happens if you can’t make it?”
Here’s my policy: I have a trusted network of professional photographers I can call on if an emergency ever keeps me from being there.
In over a decade of shooting weddings, I’ve never missed one—but your memories are too important to leave to chance.
✨ Red Flag: If a photographer has no backup plan, no associates, and nothing in writing, it’s a gamble you don’t want to take.
Professionalism: Insurance and Contracts
Another big one: “Do you have insurance?”
I do. Liability and equipment insurance protects you, your venue, and me. Many Seattle venues require proof of insurance, so working with a professional ensures there won’t be last-minute problems.
Just as important: the contract. A clear, professional contract outlines your coverage, timelines, and protections. It’s there to make sure everyone feels secure.
✨ Red Flag: No insurance and no contract are deal-breakers.
The Photographer’s Presence: What Will They Be Like on the Day?
Your photographer will be with you more than almost anyone else on your wedding day. That’s why it’s essential to ask about their approach.
Here’s mine: I combine editorial direction with photojournalism. That means I’ll step in when you need guidance—helping you feel natural, relaxed, and beautifully posed—but I’ll also step back when the best moments are unfolding organically.
The result? A gallery that feels like you: real, emotional, and cinematic.
✨ Red Flag: If a photographer can’t explain their style—or if their style doesn’t align with what you want—you may feel uncomfortable or disappointed in your images.
Travel, Destination Weddings, and Hidden Fees
Many couples in Seattle dream of destination weddings or elopements in the mountains, at the coast, or even abroad. If travel is part of your plan, ask about fees up front.
For local weddings in the greater Seattle area, my travel is included. For out-of-state or international weddings, I create a custom travel quote that covers flights, lodging, and transportation—always transparent, never hidden.
✨ Red Flag: Watch out for vague or last-minute add-on fees. A professional should be clear about costs from the beginning.
Beyond the Basics: Questions That Reveal Personality
Not all questions are about logistics. Some of the best ones are about personality and fit:
“What inspires your photography?”
“What’s your favorite part of a wedding day?”
“How do you help couples feel comfortable in front of the camera?”
These open-ended questions reveal how your photographer thinks, works, and connects. If you feel at ease with their answers, chances are you’ll feel at ease on your wedding day, too.
✨ Red Flag: If you don’t feel comfortable, heard, or respected during the conversation, trust your gut. Connection matters just as much as skill.
Final Thoughts: Trust and Connection Above All
At the end of the day, wedding photography isn’t just about clicking a camera. It’s about trust, connection, and telling your story in a way that feels timeless.
When you ask the right questions—and know what red flags to watch for—you’ll feel confident walking into your wedding day.
At Vow House, my mission is to give you more than photos. I give you an experience: clear communication, a calm presence, and images that look like they could live in the pages of a magazine while still feeling deeply personal.
👉 Ready to start the conversation? Reach out here or connect with me on Instagram @vowhouseweddings. Let’s create something unforgettable together.