Top questions to ask a wedding photographer

Here is a list of questions to consider asking a Dublin-based wedding photographer before signing the contract.

1) Are Dublin wedding photographers normally available for most dates?

Most wedding photographers are available on wedding dates, as this is their primary job and source of income. However, it’s important to book a photographer as soon as possible, especially if you’re getting married during peak wedding season or on a popular date, as photographers can book up quickly.

It’s a good idea to start looking for a wedding photographer at least twelve to 18 months before your wedding date. This will give you plenty of time to research different photographers, compare their styles and prices, and meet with potential photographers to determine the best fit for you.

Once you’ve found a photographer that you like and who is available on your wedding date, be sure to book them as soon as possible to ensure that they’re available for your special day. Most photographers will require a deposit to secure the date, and it’s important to read and understand the terms of the contract before signing.

Overall, while most wedding photographers are available on wedding dates, it’s important to book early to ensure that you get the photographer of your choice on your special day. 

2) Make sure to ask and confirm who will be taking the photos at your wedding.

When hiring a wedding photographer, it is important to confirm which photographer will be taking the photos at your wedding. This is typically determined by the wedding photography company or studio and may be based on the availability and expertise of the photographers on their team.

In most cases, you will have the opportunity to meet the photographer who will be available to photograph your wedding before the event. This is typically done through an initial consultation, either in person or online, where you can discuss your vision and preferences for your wedding photography. This is also a good time to ask any questions you may have and to get to know the photographer's style and approach to wedding photography.

If you have specific requests or preferences, it is important to communicate them to the photographer and the photography company ahead of time. This will help ensure that you are matched with a photographer who is the right fit for your needs and who will be able to deliver the type of imagery you are looking for.

In summary, it is generally possible to meet the photographer who will be available to photograph your wedding, and it is important to confirm and discuss your preferences and expectations with them beforehand.

3) Do you need an assistant to help you on the day?

It is not uncommon for wedding photographers to work with an assistant on a wedding day. Having an assistant can be helpful for a number of reasons.

First and foremost, an assistant can help the photographer by carrying equipment, setting up lighting, and taking care of other technical tasks. This frees up the photographer to focus on capturing the best possible images. An assistant can also help the photographer by getting candid shots of guests and other important details, allowing the photographer to focus on the main event.

In addition to the practical benefits, having an assistant can also help to put couples at ease. A photographer working alone may not be able to be in two places at once, but an assistant can help to ensure that all important moments are captured.

Overall, whether or not a wedding photographer needs an assistant will depend on the specific needs and circumstances of the wedding. Some photographers may prefer to work alone, while others may find that an assistant is an invaluable asset on the wedding day. It is always a good idea to discuss your needs and preferences with your photographer before the big day.

4) Do I need to know how many Years of Experience the photographer has?

It is important to consider a wedding photographer's experience before hiring them for your big day.

The number of years a wedding photographer has been in business can be an indicator of their level of experience, but it is not the only factor to consider. A photographer who has been in business for many years may have a lot of experience, but they may also be more in demand and have a higher price point.

Here are a few key things to consider when checking a photographer's experience:

The number of weddings photographed: The number of weddings a photographer has photographed can be a good indicator of their level of experience. However, it is important to note that this is not the only factor to consider.

Quality of work: In addition to the number of weddings photographed, it is important to look at the quality of the photographer's work. Review their portfolio and ask to see full wedding albums to get a sense of their style and the overall quality of their images.

Professionalism: A photographer's professionalism is also an important consideration. Look for photographers who are reliable, responsive, and able to work effectively with other vendors and professionals.

Specialties: Some photographers may specialize in specific areas, such as destination weddings, elopements, or intimate weddings. Consider whether the photographer's specialties align with your needs and preferences.

It is important to remember that experience is not the only factor to consider when choosing a wedding photographer. It is also important to look at the photographer's portfolio and style and to make sure they are a good fit for your specific needs and preferences.

In general, a photographer who has been in business for at least 5-10 years is likely to have a good amount of experience and be comfortable handling the various challenges and demands that can come up on a wedding day.

5) Ask how many weddings the photographer has under his belt.

The number of weddings a photographer has photographed can be an indicator of their level of experience, but it is not the only factor to consider. A photographer who has shot a large number of weddings may have a lot of experience, but they may also be more in demand and have a higher price point.

It is important to remember that experience is not the only factor to consider when choosing a wedding photographer. It is also important to look at the photographer's portfolio and style and to make sure they are a good fit for your specific needs and preferences.

In general, a photographer who has shot at least 50 weddings is likely to have a good amount of experience and be comfortable handling the various challenges and demands that can come up on a wedding day. However, it is always a good idea to ask the photographer about their specific experience and to discuss your needs and expectations with them before making a final decision.