*This post was originally published on April 8, 2018. It has since been updated.*

Engagement season is here, and that means that so many people are getting ready to start their wedding planning! It can be a daunting task (trust me, I've been there).

When my husband and I got married, I had a slightly easier time than most figuring out my photographer. I wanted to incorporate my sister into my big day, and she was always one to love to get those butt shots. (I'm only partially kidding. My sister did an amazing job with the photos of our wedding.) However, I know not everyone has as easy a time figuring out their photographer.

It can be awkward when you have to pick someone who is going to be spending a lot of time with you (especially you, brides; your photographer sees all). It's hard figuring out what questions to ask to really figure out if your photographer is the best fit for you.

So, here are a few questions that your photographer wishes you would ask before hiring them!

1) What methods of payment do you take?

I know this sounds really silly, but not all photographers are created equal in the way they accept payments. Some only take cash or check. Take this into consideration when deciding on your photographer! Also, please make sure not to lead with "Do you take credit cards?" We photographers get a lot of scam emails that include this line and it may result in you getting your email ignored, and we don't want that!

2) How do you feel about detail shots?

As a bride, I can say that I loved the little detail shots... and I forgot to tell my sister that I wanted them. Some photographers LOVE their detail shots. Others will get them if you ask them to, but otherwise will focus on the people aspect. If you want those detail shots, make sure your photographer either loves to take them or knows that you want them well in advance!

3) Are there certain times of day you prefer to shoot?

This is a big one, especially if you're planning sunset ceremony outside. Having a thirty minute ceremony at sunset will limit the shots that a natural light photographer will get. Getting to know more about your photographer's preferences will help you decide if a natural light photographer will be right for your batcave rave reception (which sounds totally awesome, actually!)

4) Do your packages include a print release?

Most of the time, before you actually meet with a photographer, they'll give you the lowdown on what their packages include. However, that pesky print release can be a whole other can of worms. If your package includes digitals of any sort, make sure to ask if a print release is included, if you have to go through your photographer to order prints, or if you're able to purchase the printing rights to your photos. Know, though, that PRINTING rights are very different from COPYRIGHT and unless stated in the contract, copyright and right to edit the photos remains with the photographer!


5) Do you have recommendations for videographers?

Not all photographers and videographers play nice! While you may luck out and have someone who offers both videography and photography for your big day, know that if you hire a photographer, they may have a recommendation for a videographer who they've worked with before. As a photographer, I can tell you it can be a big deal if the videographer isn't used to working with me! I've heard horror stories about videographers who intentionally stepped in front of the photographer before important shots for the sake of the video. Please, make sure your photographer and videographer can play nice!