If you were to google "Questions to ask your photographer" you will get 52,700,000 results. I've heard most of those standard questions while chatting with clients over coffee at Starbucks. While hearing the answers may help you figure out if the photographer is professional and adept as a business owner, I find that the most important things to consider are in the portfolio and personality. Your photographer could be awesome on paper but if you're uncomfortable with your photographer, the end result won't be as good as it could be. 

Instead I thought it would be more helpful to turn the table and write about the things that I ask of my perspective bride and grooms. These are questions that I ask to ensure I am in the right place at the right time, so I won't miss a thing. So here are 10 things to tell your Wedding Photographer.

1. Venue requirements- Some churches or venues have shooting guidelines or insurance requirements for their photographers. If you are unsure of the requirements, you can put your photographer in touch with the coordinator or official to ensure guidelines are properly followed.

2. Size of your wedding party or expected guest list- This helps photographers properly prepare for the event.

 3. Direction- If you feel awkward in front of the camera and would like strong direction, make sure you voice it to your photographer. Likewise, if you feel more comfortable with candid shots and just being yourself. A good photographer will be able to provide strong direction to large groups while knowing when to back off and just take candids and let the moment unfold.

4. Family matters- Does Uncle Bob not get along well with Cousin Billy? Best not to stick them next to each other in the family photo! It's good to let your photographer know the family dynamics so we can discreetly pose them on opposite sides of the family photos. 

9. Traditions- Will you be having a first look or staying traditional and not seeing each other until you walk down the aisle? Also be sure to note any traditional dances, bouquet tossing, or grand exits you may have planned through out your day.

 

 

 

10. Details, Details, Details- Are you wearing your great grandmother's necklace as your something old? Did you spend every night the last two weeks handcrafting those wedding favors?

Tell your photographer, because we want to capture all those details you'll want to remember.