Planning your wedding is one of the most exciting seasons of your life, and choosing the right photographer is a big part of that magic. Your wedding photos will be your forever memories—flipping through your album, you’ll relive every detail, every emotion, and every look of love. So it only makes sense that you want to be absolutely sure the person behind the camera is the perfect fit.

Whether you’re weeks into planning or just getting started, asking the right questions before booking your wedding photographer is key to making the best choice. As Atlanta wedding photographers, we’ve met so many couples who didn’t know what to ask—and we totally get it. That’s why we’re breaking down the Top 5 Questions You Must Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking.

Let’s dive in!

1. What’s Your Photography Style and Can I See a Full Wedding Gallery?

Every photographer has a unique style—some love bold and vibrant, others shoot light and airy, while some focus on deep, moody tones. Some go for a documentary feel, capturing candid emotions, while others lean more traditional and posed. Before you book, it’s important to understand how your photographer tells a story through images.

Ask them to show you a full wedding gallery—not just Instagram highlights. This helps you see how they shoot the entire day, from getting ready to your final dance.

💡 Why it matters: Anyone can take a few great photos, but consistency is everything. Seeing a full wedding gallery shows you if they can deliver high-quality photos from start to finish.

2. What’s Included in Your Wedding Photography Packages?

Every photographer structures their packages differently, so don’t assume anything. This is where you get all the details: hours of coverage, second shooters, engagement sessions, number of edited photos, albums, timelines, travel fees—everything.

Be sure to ask:

  • How many hours are included?
  • Is an engagement session part of the package?
  • How many edited photos will I receive?
  • Do you include a second shooter?
  • Will I get an online gallery or USB?

💡 Why it matters: Transparency helps you avoid surprises. You’ll know exactly what you’re getting and can compare offers more confidently.

3. How Do You Handle Timelines, and Will You Help Me Build One?

Wedding photographers often help guide the flow of the day. A great photographer doesn’t just show up with a camera—they’ll help make sure your day runs smoothly so you get all the photos you want without feeling rushed.

 Ask them:

  • Do you help build the photo timeline?
  • How much time should we allow for portraits, first look, etc.?
  • What’s your approach if we fall behind schedule?

💡 Why it matters: Wedding days rarely go 100% according to plan, and a seasoned photographer knows how to adapt while still capturing every special moment. Having someone who can help guide the timeline is a game changer.

4. What Happens If You Can’t Make It or There’s an Emergency?

Life happens, and while rare, emergencies do come up. You want to know what your photographer’s backup plan is in case they’re suddenly unable to be there on your big day.

Ask this directly:

  • Do you have a backup photographer in place?
  • Are you part of a photography network or team?
  • What happens to my deposit if you cancel?

💡 Why it matters: Peace of mind. You don’t want to be scrambling to find a new photographer at the last minute. A professional will always have a backup plan ready.

5. How Long Will It Take to Get Our Photos and How Are They Delivered?

Once the big day is over, the anticipation begins! How soon will you get your photos? Will they be delivered in an online gallery? Will you get sneak peeks?

Ask them:

  • How long does it take to receive the full gallery?
  • Do you offer sneak peeks within a few days?
  • How do you deliver the images?
  • Are prints or albums included?

💡 Why it matters: Every photographer’s turnaround time is different. Setting expectations upfront means no unnecessary stress or disappointment after the wedding.

Bonus Tip: Vibe Check!

Don’t forget to trust your gut. Beyond the technical stuff, do you vibe with your photographer? Do you feel comfortable around them? Are they kind, communicative, and genuinely excited for your wedding?

You’ll be spending a lot of time with your photographer on your wedding day—during some of your most emotional and intimate moments. It’s important that you feel relaxed and at ease.

Pro tip: Schedule an in-person or video consultation. If you laugh, connect, and feel supported during your chat that’s a green flag.

Booking your wedding photographer is more than just hiring someone to take pictures—it’s choosing the person who will freeze time and capture your once-in-a-lifetime love story. When you ask these questions, you’ll walk away feeling confident and excited—not confused or overwhelmed. And that’s exactly how it should feel.

If you’re a bride-to-be in the Atlanta area (or planning a destination wedding!), we’d love to chat with you. We’re Kirkland and Cindy, the duo behind CK Wedding Photography, and we specialize in timeless, heartfelt wedding photography that’s just as joyful and unique as your love story.

Ready to book your dream wedding photographer?
Let’s make magic together! Click HERE to schedule your free consultation and get your FREE engagement shoot when you book us this season!

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