What Do You Think We Need to Cover?
This might sound backwards – shouldn’t you be telling the photographer what you want? But here’s the thing: most couples are planning their first (and hopefully only) wedding. You’re not experts in wedding timeline management or photo logistics.
A good photographer will ask about your venue locations, ceremony and reception timing, and whether the bride and groom are getting ready in different places.
If your photographer doesn’t bring up potential timing issues or logistical challenges, that’s a red flag.
What to listen for
Your photographer should be thinking ahead about travel time between locations, lighting challenges, and whether your timeline is realistic. If the groom is getting ready 30 kilometres away from the bride and your ceremony is at 3 PM, an experienced photographer will flag this as a potential issue.
How Do You Handle Family Dynamics and Must-Have Shots?
Family relationships can be… complicated. Maybe your parents are divorced and don’t get along with each other’s new partners.
Perhaps your grandmother specifically wants a four-generation photo with a particular piece of jewellery that belonged to her mother.
The photographer needs to know about these sensitive situations before your wedding day. It’s not just about getting the shots you want – it’s about avoiding the shots that could create drama.
What to share
What’s Your Shooting Style, and How Will You Guide Us?
Not all wedding photographers work the same way. Some prefer formal, posed portraits that look great blown up on your living room wall. Others focus on candid, documentary-style photography that captures genuine emotions as they happen.
Most photographers blend both approaches, but it’s important to understand what you’re getting. If you’re shy in front of cameras, you’ll want someone who can guide you through poses without making it feel awkward.
If you hate formal photos, you need a photographer who’s skilled at capturing beautiful candid moments.
What I tell my clients
Who Will Actually Be Photographing Our Wedding?
This one’s crucial, especially with larger photography businesses. Some companies will show you a stunning portfolio, but then send a less experienced photographer to your actual wedding.
Always ask: Will you personally be photographing our wedding? If not, can we meet the photographer who will be there? Can we see examples of their specific work?
Red Flag alert
If they can’t guarantee who your photographer will be, or if they seem evasive about showing you that specific photographer’s work, keep looking. Your wedding day is too important for uncertainty.
How Do We Get Our Photos, and What Happens If We Want Changes?
The technical stuff matters. How long until you see your photos? Will they be delivered via USB, online gallery, or file transfer? Are they edited? What file sizes do you get?
But also ask about the album design process if you’re considering one. Do you get to review and request changes before it’s printed? What if you want to swap out certain photos?
What to expect
The Question You Should Ask Yourself
Here’s the most important question, though it’s one you need to ask yourself: “Do I feel comfortable with this person?”
Your wedding photographer will be with you for 6-8 hours on one of the most important days of your life. They’ll be capturing intimate moments, directing family group shots (which can be like herding cats), and working around your timeline.
If you don’t feel relaxed with them during your initial meeting, that’s unlikely to change on your wedding day. Trust your instincts.
Why These Conversations Matter
The couples who have the best wedding photography experience are the ones who have honest, detailed conversations with their photographer beforehand. It’s not just about the pretty pictures—it’s about making sure your photographer understands your priorities, your family dynamics, and your vision for the day.
Take the time to sit down (whether in person, by Zoom, or phone) and have these conversations. A good photographer will appreciate your thoroughness, and you’ll feel much more confident heading into your wedding day.
Ready to start the conversation? I’d love to discuss your wedding photography needs and answer any questions you might have. Get in touch to arrange a chat about your special day.
Mike Potts Photography offers authentic, emotion-focused wedding photography across the Shoalhaven, Southern Highlands, and South Coast NSW. With over 30 years of experience, Mike specialises in capturing genuine moments while keeping couples feeling relaxed and natural.