THE TOP 10
Questions Couples Ask Wedding Photographers (Answered!)
Every wedding fades into memory. Your photos are what bring it back to life.
Planning a wedding means making a lot of big decisions, and choosing your photographer is one of the biggest. Your photos are the one thing that lasts beyond the day itself, so it makes sense to have plenty of questions before you book.
To make things easier, I’ve rounded up the top questions couples ask me when they’re searching for their wedding photographer. Think of this as your quick-start guide to wedding photography, so you can spend less time stressing and more time celebrating.
Top Wedding Photographer Questions
How far in advance should we book our wedding photographer?
The short answer: as soon as you can. Most couples book their wedding photographer 9–12 months in advance, especially for peak summer and fall dates here in Michigan. If your wedding is on a weekday, in the off-season, or a smaller celebration, you may have more flexibility, but the earlier you reach out, the better your chances of locking in your date.
How many hours of coverage do we really need?
This depends on the kind of wedding you’re planning. A full-day wedding might need 8 hours of coverage, but if you’re planning something more intimate, you may only need 2, 4, or 6 hours. Think about what moments matter most to you such as the ceremony, portraits, and first dance, then build coverage around that. (Hint: I can always help my couples figure out the perfect timeline so nothing gets missed.)
Do you include an engagement session?
Yes! And I always recommend it. Engagement sessions are a chance to celebrate your relationship outside of wedding planning, but they’re also a great “practice run” before the big day. You’ll get comfortable in front of the camera, and I’ll get to know you as a couple which makes your wedding photos even more natural and relaxed.
How many photos will we get, and how long will it take to receive them?
Every wedding is different, but most couples receive several hundred fully edited images—typically around 50 to 100 photos per hour of coverage. That’s enough to capture the full story of your day without overwhelming you. Engagement sessions usually include 50–75 images, giving you plenty to enjoy and share. Wedding galleries are delivered within 8–12 weeks, while engagement sessions arrive much quicker (about 2–4 weeks) because I know you’ll be excited to see them.
What’s your photography style?
I’d describe my style as directed candid. Most of the day I’m capturing moments as they naturally unfold, with little interference. For family formals, I’ll step in to pose and organize so we don’t miss anyone important. When it comes to wedding party and couple portraits, I’ll guide you through prompts and gentle posing to help you feel comfortable, while still drawing out those genuine emotions and natural interactions.
Do you work alone or with a second shooter?
For intimate weddings, I typically work solo. This allows me to move seamlessly and unobtrusively throughout the day. For larger weddings, a second shooter can be added to capture extra angles, details, and guest moments. It really comes down to the size and flow of your celebration.
What happens if it rains on our wedding day?
We’ll roll with it! Some of the most magical wedding photos happen in unexpected weather. I always scout out backup locations and bring the gear needed to handle rain, snow, or low light. And if you’re up for it, we can even pop outside for some romantic umbrella shots. It’s all part of the adventure! Plus, many believe rain on your wedding day is a sign of good luck. In some cultures, a “wet knot” is harder to untie, symbolizing a stronger, more enduring marriage.
Can we give you a shot list?
I love when couples share their must-have photos like a specific heirloom or special family grouping. That’s why I send a questionnaire about 30 days before your wedding, so you can tell me exactly which family photos are most important. I know families don’t always get together often, and sometimes this is the one time everyone has been in the same room for years. Beyond that, I encourage you to trust me to document the day naturally. A short list is helpful, but spending the whole day checking boxes means you’ll miss being present and that’s the last thing I want for you.
Do you offer albums or just digital photos?
Both! You’ll always receive your photos in a beautiful online gallery, but I also believe in the power of printed memories. That’s why I include an heirloom wedding album in almost every package. Having something you can hold, flip through, and share with future generations is priceless.
What’s the average investment for wedding photography?
Wedding photography is an investment in your memories. In Michigan, photography prices vary depending on experience and coverage. My collections are designed for intimate weddings, starting at 4 hours and going up to 6 or 8 hours, giving you flexibility for your day. With an average investment of around $3,500, you’re securing a photographer to document your day with care and attention to every detail. You can explore all the details below.
LET’S DREAM
Capture your wedding day exactly as it feels—full of love and laughter.
Choosing your wedding photographer doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. The right photographer will not only answer your questions but also make the process fun and stress-free. If you’re still searching for someone to capture your day, I’d love to chat with you and hear all about your plans.
