So, you are searching for a wedding photographer.


You found a wedding portfolio you LOVE, what is the next step? Set up a phone call or consultation! This meeting before signing a contract is where you can insure the portfolio you love will also have a contract with clear expectations you love.


I was inspired to write this blog post because I have seen an increasing amount of brides who end up being "ghosted" by their photographers after the wedding. Unprofessional photographers may choose to ghost their clients for a variety of terrible reasons. The images may have been lost due to a mechanical malfunction, and they don't know how to tell you. The photos they took may have been too blurry and dark. Or maybe they took on way too many weddings, and they are backlogged with editing.

Yes, these scenarios are terrifying to think about, but there are some ways to help prevent choosing a photographer who is unprofessional and not equipped to properly shoot weddings.


Here is a list of questions you want to ask, and you want to make sure the contract you are given includes this information clearly spelled out. Details about the amount of time you need to wait for your full gallery to be delivered to you should be written out with a precise date. If a photographer asks you to wait more than 8 weeks for delivery of your edited photos, you may want to keep searching for a photographer.


Experience and Portfolio:

  • How long have you been photographing weddings?
  • Can you show me a full gallery of a wedding you delivered?

Style and Approach:

  • How would you describe your photography style? Are you more posed or candid in your approach?
  • How do you handle different lighting conditions?

Packages and Pricing:

  • Can you customize a package to fit my needs?
  • What is your pricing structure, including any additional fees?
  • Will my images be used on your social media and website?

Equipment and Backup:

  • Do you use a DUAL SLOT camera body?
  • How many cameras and lenses do you bring with you to weddings?
  • Do you have ON camera flash or OFF camera flash?

Timeline and Logistics:

  • How do you typically plan out the wedding day timeline with regards to photography?
  • How much time do you need for formal portraits?
  • Will you coordinate with other vendors like the wedding planner or videographer?

Post-Production and Delivery:

  • What is your editing process like?
  • How long will it take to receive the final edited photos? How MANY will I receive?
  • Do I receive the digital files, prints, or albums, and are they included in the package?

Communication and Planning:

  • How do you prefer to communicate leading up to the wedding day?
  • Will there be a contract outlining the services, timeline, and payment terms?

References and Reviews:

  • Can you provide references from past clients?
  • Do you have online reviews or testimonials I can read?

Logistical Details:

  • Will you require a meal during the wedding?
  • How far in advance do you need final details and schedules?

Contingency Plans:

  • What happens if you are unable to photograph my wedding due to an emergency?
  • Do you have a plan for your contracted brides in case of your death?
  • Do you have a backup photographer in case of unforeseen circumstances?