When you’re planning your wedding, hiring a photographer is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make. Your photos will outlive the flowers, the food, and even the venue you rent for the day — so you want to make sure you choose someone who doesn’t just take beautiful pictures, but someone who truly understands you, your story, and how you want your day to feel. As a wedding photographer, I’ve worked with dozens of couples who weren’t sure what to ask beyond “what’s your price?” That’s why I put together this guide — to give you the best questions to ask your wedding photographer that actually matter when it comes to finding the right photographer, plus a few tips for building a wedding day timeline that makes your photos (and your experience) unforgettable.
Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer (That Actually Matter)
Here’s what you should be asking to get to the heart of how your photographer will capture your day:
1. How Would You Describe Your Photography Style?
This helps you understand whether they lean more toward documentary, editorial, light and airy, or moody and cinematic. You’ll want someone whose natural style aligns with how you want your photos to feel.
2. How Do You Approach the Wedding Day?
Every photographer has a different philosophy. Some take charge and direct every pose, while others blend into the background and capture candid, in-between moments. Asking this helps you see if their approach matches your comfort level.
3. What’s Your Favorite Part of a Wedding Day to Photograph?
Their answer will reveal what lights them up — whether it’s the tearful first look, the details, or the chaotic fun of the dance floor. You’ll get a sense of what moments they’ll prioritize.
4. How Do You Handle Unexpected Situations (Weather, Delays, etc.)?
The reality: weddings rarely go 100% to plan. You’ll want to know how flexible and experienced your photographer is when things shift.
5. How Do You Help Couples Feel Comfortable in Front of the Camera?
Unless you’re a professional model, chances are you and your partner will feel a little awkward at first and that’s normal. The right photographer will have prompts, and techniques to ease nerves and capture natural emotion.
6. What’s Your Process for Editing and Delivering Photos?
Editing is where a lot of the magic happens. Ask how they edit (true-to-color, moody, film-inspired), how many photos you’ll receive, and how long the turnaround time is.
7. Do You Help With Timeline Planning?
A great photographer won’t just show up and click a button — they’ll help you plan the best timing for golden hour portraits, first looks, and family photos so you’re never rushed.
💡 Pro tip: If you’re working with me as your photographer, I help plan your timeline, and I customize recommendations based on your venue, season, and priorities.
Now that you know Questions to Ask your Wedding Photographer, here are Wedding Photography Timeline Tips
Even with the best questions asked, your photography experience really shines when you have a thoughtful timeline. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning:
Factor in Getting Ready Time
Hair and makeup often run late — add at least 30 extra minutes to this portion so you don’t feel rushed before your first look or ceremony.
Golden Hour is Your Best Friend
The hour before sunset gives you soft, glowing light that makes portraits magical. Ask your photographer to plan some couple’s photos during this time.
Family Photos Take Longer Than You Think
Group shots can take 2–3 minutes per combination. If you have 15 groupings, that’s easily 30–40 minutes. Build this in so you’re not stressed.
First Look vs. Traditional Aisle Reveal
If you’re doing a first look, you’ll get more time for portraits earlier in the day. If you’re waiting until the ceremony, plan extra photo time afterward. Neither is right or wrong — it just changes your flow.
Travel Time Matters
If your ceremony and reception are at different venues, don’t forget to include travel (plus time for traffic, parking, etc.)
Why These Questions and Timeline Tips Matter
Choosing a photographer isn’t just about who takes “pretty pictures.” It’s also about finding someone who will:
- Help you feel natural and present
- Keep things running smoothly
- Capture your day in a way that feels authentic to you
And when your timeline is carefully planned with photography in mind, you’ll not only love your images but also feel like you actually got to enjoy your wedding instead of rushing through it.
Looking for the right photographer?
If you’re planning your wedding and want a photographer who helps you every step of the way — from asking the right questions to building a stress-free timeline, I’d love to chat more here! Here’s another artical as well, for tips over important decisions to make before you start planning.
