We can't stress enough how important this is—almost as crucial as their skills behind the camera. You'll be spending your entire wedding day with this person and if you're at ease, you'll not only enjoy yourself more, but they'll also get better shots. 

Our team at Apollos Imaging LLC has created a comprehensive list to help aid you in asking the right questions that will greatly benefit you and your photographer(s). Once you finish reading this list of questions, contact us and we will answer all your questions and get your special day booked with us.

Let’s begin asking the right questions:

·      What style(s) do you specialize in?

 Why you want to know: This might be the most important question to ask wedding photographers. Most shooters use a blend of several different styles of photography, but you'll want to make sure they shoot portraits, for example, if they're important to you. You wouldn't ask Monet to paint you a Picasso, right? Going with the style a photographer likes to shoot best (and has the most experience shooting) will give you the best results.

·      Will the photos be retouched and color balanced? Is that done before I see the proofs?

 Why you want to know: Some photographers will polish all your photos, while others will show you untouched proofs and work their magic only on the images you order.

·      What exactly is included in your packages?

 Why you want to know: When comparing fees, check whether prints, albums and proofs, as well as extra coverage such as engagement shoots, are covered. They can all alter the costs significantly. It's not necessarily a bad thing if, say, your album isn't included—you can always make this on your own, but you want to be sure you're comparing apples to apples to get the best value. 

·      How many hours of coverage do we get? What is the charge for overtime?

 Why you want to know: If overtime is going to cost you a ton, you'll be able to plan their hours accordingly. For instance, if you have six hours of coverage but your photographer charges a huge hourly rate for overtime, you might have them leave after you cut the cake instead of after the last dance. Or, you may opt for a longer package to pay a little more up front (and avoid the larger hourly overtime rate later).

·      What is the deposit and total fee?

 Why you want to know: In addition to this bottom-line number, you'll also want to ask when it's due.

·      Do you have backup photographers who will shoot the wedding if you're sick?

 Why you want to know: If you're going with a company that employs a team of photographers, you'll have a built-in backup. But if you're going with a solo shooter, ask if they have colleagues on call in case of an emergency.

·      Will there be a second shooter or any assistants? Is there an additional fee for each?

 Why you want to know: Second shooters can cover more ground and can give you two perspectives on major moments (for instance, one can shoot the groom's face when he first sees his bride and the other can photograph the bride as she walks down the aisle). But this may cost you extra.

·      How long after the wedding will we get to see the photos?

 Why you want to know: You'll want to see photos ASAP, and the wait can be pretty agonizing (it can take months!). But if you know in advance, you can manage your (and your mom's) expectations.

·      How will you coordinate with my videographer? How do you envision working together?

 Why you want to know: This pair will need to coordinate and stay out of each other's way— easier to do if they have a good rapport. If you haven't hired a videographer yet, ask them for a suggestion.

·      Will you follow a shot list? Or do you prefer to have free reign to capture the festivities how you see fit?

Why you want to know: Most photographers will welcome a (short) shot list to make sure you get the specific pics you want. But don't overwhelm them with hundreds of requests—if you hire a good pro, you're hiring them for their eye as well as their experience creating amazing albums, so let them do their job.

·      What are the restrictions for sharing photos online or for publication? Do you own the copyright to the photos?

 Why you want to know: If you're a Facebook and Instagram addict, not being allowed to share some of your wedding photos online may be torture—better to know about this ahead of time.

·      Do you bring your own lighting?

 Why you want to know: Not only will you want to determine if you'll need to supply additional lighting (either hiring a lighting designer or having the venue supply it), but you'll want to be sure the equipment they bring won't be too bulky or obtrusive.

·      What will you wear?

Why you want to know: Discussing their wedding day wardrobe will allow your photographer to plan to match the style of your wedding. Most will be happy to blend into the scenery (for instance, wearing black for an evening loft event or lighter hues for a daytime garden party).