Portfolios all look lovely. The consultation is where you learn how a photographer actually works — under pressure, in bad light, with a late-running timeline. These nine questions cut straight to it.
1. Can we see a full gallery?
Anyone can show twenty perfect frames. Ask to see one complete wedding, start to finish — preparations through send-off. Consistency across a whole day matters more than a highlight reel.
2. How do you handle a late timeline?
Weddings run late; photographers who panic make everyone panic. Listen for calm specifics: what gets trimmed, what never does, and how portraits survive a lost hour.
3. What happens in harsh midday light?
If your ceremony is at noon in open sun, you need someone who scouts shade in advance — not someone hoping for clouds. Ask for an example.
4. How many images do we receive — and when?
Get numbers and dates in writing. A sneak peek within days and a full gallery within weeks is a healthy sign; vague promises are not.
5. Do you work with a second photographer?
Two angles change everything during ceremonies and preparations. Ask who the second is — an experienced partner, or whoever was free.
6. How do you direct people who hate photos?
Most couples are nervous. The right answer involves walking, talking and laughing — not a list of poses to memorise.
7. What is your backup routine?
Two cameras, two cards, and off-site copies before midnight. If this question gets a shrug, keep looking.
8. Can we customise the package?
Your day is not a template. A good studio trims hours, adds sessions and builds albums around you — without punishing you for it.
9. Why do you photograph weddings?
The softest question reveals the most. You want someone who lights up talking about other people's joy — that energy is what carries a ten-hour day.
Bring these to every consultation — including ours. We love answering them.