Your photographer will be on the most important aspects of your wedding day, so it’s critical you know the essential questions to ask your wedding photographer.

Wedding photographers cost a lot of money and will likely represent one of the larger chunks of your wedding budget… PLUS they will be responsible for documenting the memories of your day – a pretty important job! Make sure you know the questions to ask a photographer for a wedding so you don’t end up regretting your choice.

Top 10 Questions to Ask a Wedding Photographer:

1) What do your packages include/exclude?

Figuring out what’s in a photographer’s packages will help you discover what’s important to you. Most brides want some getting ready shots, as well as the ceremony and reception highlights (cake cutting, bouquet toss, etc.). Be sure you’re getting exactly what you want.

2) Who owns my pictures afterward?

Some photographers and videographers retain the rights to your wedding pics and footage, meaning that if you want extra copies, you’ll have to go through them (and probably pay through the nose). Ask if your photographer will give you a CD with the digital files to allow you to make reprints on your own, as much as you’d like.

3) What kinds of albums do I get?

Many photographers offer album packages, which is why one of the questions to ask your wedding photographer should definitely be, “What albums do you offer and how many do I get?” You’ll probably want one for you and one for each set of parents. Find out what the albums include (i.e. how many pictures), how much they cost, and how many you get.

4) How many photographers am I getting?

This is one of the crucial questions to ask a photographer for a wedding because two is WAY better than one when it comes to photography (and videography, too). Many of the better photographers come with an assistant to help things run more smoothly and also ensure none of the moments get missed.

5) Do you offer any promotions or freebies?

Some photographers will give you discounts or special incentives for booking with them. Common bonuses include free engagement sessions, trash-the-dress shoots, bridal portraits, a free photo album, or a free CD with your digital pictures.

6) Can I have references?

You should always talk to brides who have used a given wedding photographer in the past. Even if you have this list of questions to ask your wedding photographer handy, past clients will be able to give you a general “feel” for a wedding photographer that no list of questions really can. Find out about their positive and negative experiences so you have a better idea what you’re buying.

7) May I see your portfolio?

Don’t shy away from asking to see a photographer or videographer’s previous work. They shouldn’t hesitate to give you examples of their best work. Make sure you see a variety of outdoor and indoor shots as well as different settings so you have an idea what they’re capable of.

8 ) Are you available for consultation pre-wedding?

Any photographer work his or her salt should be willing to meet with you prior to your wedding, more than once if necessary, to go over how you want your day to go as well as to get a list of the special pics you want to make sure you have taken.

9) What kind of equipment do you use?

You don’t have to be a camera buff to know that outdated equipment might not be up to par. Most brides prefer digital shots these days because it means the pictures can be edited (no more red eye) and reprinted easily.

10) Do I like you?

Okay, you might not want to ask this one to your photographer’s face, but you do want to stop and think about whether you have any chemistry with your photographer. If you don’t feel comfortable around him or her, it will definitely show in your pictures.