Essential Questions for Your Photographer

Stop photo disasters before they happen by making sure you've posed these query musts.

Choosing your wedding photographer is a serious thing. We asked Leslie Barton, a longtime wedding photographer from Manchester, to tell us what to ask when hiring a photographer.

1. Will it be you taking the pictures? When you first go to a photographer, he will show you a portfolio of his work. Find out if the book you are looking at belongs to the same person that will be taking the pictures. Make sure you meet the person that will be showing up on your wedding day and that his name appears on the contract. Of course, he can have an assistant helping, but he should be the one taking the shots. It's also wise to have a back-up plan. Ask what happens if he gets sick? Ask to see the portfolio of other photographers he would use in an emergency.
2. How many shots are candids, how many are posed? Make sure you are clear with your photographer about what you want. Do you want mostly journalistic style shots or all formal shots? How many will be color and how many black and white? Some photographers are better at one than the other, so ask about his strengths and background.
   
   
3. How many rolls of film do you shoot? The more rolls the photographer shoots, the more photos you'll have to choose from. However, if you're paying by the roll, Barton suggests talking about a limit, as it can get pricey. Don't restrict him too much though. You'll miss the great shot of Aunt Bertha dancing on the table. Set a ballpark number of rolls and expect him to go over by one or two.
4. Do you know the place? Your photographer should be familiar with your ceremony and reception site. He shouldn't be surprised by any weird lighting problems or if photographers aren't allowed to use flash. A good photographer will take a trip to scout out the area before the big day. He should also have some ideas about where to go for outdoor shots.
5. When do I put the deposit down, and when is the whole thing due? Haggling over prices after the fact can get icky, so nail down all the prices ahead of time. Barton says "ask if there is a charge for overtime and travel costs, whether you can hold off payment until you get the proofs and if you can buy the negatives."