Photographs are life lasting memories that you are likely to not only be sharing with your friends and family, but with your children and grandchildren. A considerable about of time, energy and money will more than likely go into your search for a Photographer. But unless you’ve been married before, or know someone who has, you don’t know what you don’t know, making it difficult to ask the right questions.  Girl Friday Weddings asks Nerida McMurray to fill us in on the things you need to know before you make your shortlist of Photographers.

1. Who will be taking the photos on the day?

Some large studios will show you their best work and then send an alternative photographer on the day.  Don’t be shy in asking to see photographs from the photographer that you are actually booked with and make sure you meet the person who will be shooting your wedding.  It’s really important to feel comfortable with the photographer, and more important to share a sense of purpose and humour about the day. These will no doubt be reflected in the final pictures that have been taken.

2. Do I receive a copy of the high resolution (res) digital negatives?

This point differs greatly among wedding photographers today.  Some photographers will give away the negatives/high res files, some will sell the negatives/high res files, and some will never let go of them!  If you would like to send reprints with your thank you cards or to friends etc it’s imperative that you get the negatives/high res digital files.

3. Is the package inclusive of an album?

This point also differs greatly among photographers today.  The pages/sides/leaves issue can be very confusing when you’re shopping around for a wedding album.  Be sure to ask lots of questions and take note of the quality when you are viewing samples at their studio.  Don’t be fooled into buying an album with a small number of sides, only to be stung after the wedding when you realise you have to purchase more sides to get the album you really want.

4. What happens if it rains on my wedding day?

Unfortunately – it does happen!  But don’t worry it will not ruin your day – or your photographs.  Be sure to have a rain contingency plan in place before the big day.

5. What locations would you recommend for photos after the ceremony?

Perhaps you have a special place in mind … where you got engaged … or where you first met.  Either way, talk with your photographer about the options.  It’s always best to keep the locations close to the ceremony or reception venue, you don’t want to find yourself in the car for half the day!  Additionally, you want the day to be as stress free as possible and hiking all over Sydney for locations shots can be hard work.

6. Do you shoot film or digital?

Most photographers these days shoot digital – however there are still some die-hard film addicts around.  If you want flexibility with your album being able to change shots from colour, to black & white, to sepia to high colour then digital is the only way to go.  Most photographers shooting digital also are able to offer “unlimited” shots, as they don’t have to stick to a film ‘budget’.

7. When do I receive my photos after the wedding?

We’ve all heard the stories “My friend got married over a year ago and still hasn’t seen her wedding photos”. Don’t forget when you are interviewing your photographer to ask them when you can view the photos, and how they are made available to you. Can you view them online, or do you need to go in to the studio? Also be sure to ask what the process is for ordering prints. This is especially important if you or your guests live remotely from the photographer – you will find it easier if your album can be ordered online. Make sure this information is in your contract that you sign.

8. Do I have to pay a deposit and is it non-refundable?

It’s common practice for photographers to request a non refundable deposit to hold the date for a couple – it’s just the way it works.  Generally, these deposits are non-refundable because if the wedding is cancelled it’s unlikely that the date can be re-booked at late notice. 

9. How much direction or posing do you do on the day?

All photographers work differently, so talk with the photographer about how much they direct or pose you during the location shoot.  The most popular photographs now look fun, natural and candid with a bit of artistry thrown in.  Even natural looking shots require some direction from the photographer.

10. Do you have insurance?

Many venues require the photographer to have their own Public Liability Insurance.  It is very important to know if your photographer has this – you wouldn’t want to book someone and then find out they are not allowed at the reception because their insurance doesn’t comply!