The Ultimate Wedding Photography Checklist: What to Book First and Why


Starting the wedding planning process is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. There are so many decisions to make, from choosing the right venue to picking the perfect dress, and everything in between. One of the first and most important steps, though, is securing your wedding photographer. Photography is one of the few aspects of your wedding day that will last forever, so it’s essential to choose wisely.

To help guide you through the process, I’ve put together this ultimate wedding photography checklist that will ensure you not only book the right photographer but also get the most out of your photography experience. Let’s break it down:


1. Why You Should Book Your Photographer Early


Booking your wedding photographer should be one of the first items on your to-do list. While there are many details to plan, your photographer is a key player in preserving your day, and great photographers tend to get booked months, or even a year, in advance. The last thing you want is to fall in love with a photographer who is already booked on your wedding date.

By booking early, you not only secure your photographer of choice but also allow ample time to plan your engagement session, review albums, and discuss the overall vision for your wedding photos. Plus, this will give you peace of mind knowing that one of the most important vendors is already locked in.


2. Questions to Ask Your Potential Photographer


Once you’ve narrowed down your list of photographers, it’s important to ask the right questions to ensure they are the perfect fit for your wedding. Here are some key questions to consider during your interview:


  • What is your photography style? Understanding whether a photographer specializes in documentary, fine art, or traditional wedding photography is essential in determining if their style aligns with your vision.
  • Can we see a full gallery of a recent wedding? This will give you a good idea of the photographer’s consistency and approach throughout an entire wedding day, not just the highlights.
  • How many weddings have you photographed? Experience matters! A seasoned photographer will be prepared for any situation that may arise.
  • How do you handle unexpected circumstances (bad weather, time crunch, etc.)? It’s important to know how your photographer will adapt in challenging situations.
  • What is included in your packages? Are engagement sessions, albums, or extra hours of coverage included in your package? Be sure to clarify so you’re not hit with surprise costs later.


3. Breakdown of Photography Packages


Different photographers offer different packages, and it’s important to understand what’s included in each package so that you can select the one that best suits your needs. Here's a breakdown of what you may encounter:


  • Engagement Session: Many photographers include an engagement session in their packages. Engagement shoots are a great opportunity to get comfortable in front of the camera, as well as build rapport with your photographer before the big day.
  • Full-Day Coverage: This package includes everything from getting ready photos in the morning through to the last dance of the evening. It's ideal for couples who want complete coverage of their day. Some photographers offer "partial-day" packages, so make sure you know how many hours are included.
  • Second Shooter: Some couples opt for a second shooter, which provides additional angles and coverage. This is especially useful during key moments like the ceremony, where it’s hard for one photographer to capture everything simultaneously.
  • Albums and Prints: Many photographers offer wedding albums as an add-on to their packages. These albums become timeless keepsakes that allow you to relive your wedding day for years to come.


It’s important to ask about all these details upfront to avoid confusion later on. Additionally, be sure to review the contract carefully to ensure everything you want is covered.


4. The Best Time to Schedule Your Wedding Photos


Knowing when to schedule your wedding photos is key to getting the best possible results. Here are some important factors to consider:


  • Golden Hour: Golden hour is the time just before sunset when the light is soft, warm, and magical. If possible, try to schedule your couple portraits during this time. It creates beautiful, glowing photos, perfect for those romantic and dreamy moments.
  • Pre-Ceremony vs. Post-Ceremony: Some couples opt for a "first look" before the ceremony, which allows for portraits to be taken in advance. This can be especially helpful if you want to maximize time during the cocktail hour. However, others prefer the more traditional route of seeing each other for the first time as the bride walks down the aisle. Both options have their benefits, so it’s essential to discuss with your photographer what will work best for your timeline.
  • Bridal Party Photos: Bridal party photos can be done either before or after the ceremony. Some couples prefer to do them beforehand to get that out of the way and enjoy the reception without interruptions. Others choose to do them after, once everyone has settled into the ceremony. Your photographer will help you figure out the best timing based on your day’s schedule.



5. How to Plan for a Wedding Timeline that Works for Photos


Planning a wedding day timeline that works with your photography schedule is crucial. A well-thought-out timeline allows your photographer to capture all the important moments without feeling rushed. Here are a few tips for building a timeline:


  • Allow time for pre-ceremony photos: Whether it’s getting ready shots, first looks, or bridal portraits, make sure you allow enough time for these moments without feeling stressed. This typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours.
  • Buffer time is essential: Build in some extra time between each part of the day (getting ready, ceremony, family portraits, etc.). Things rarely go exactly as planned, and having some buffer time ensures that the day flows smoothly.
  • Plan for family portraits: These can take time, especially if you have a large family. Be specific about which family photos you want ahead of time and communicate this with your photographer.
  • Talk with your photographer: Your photographer will have valuable insight on how to structure the timeline to ensure all the important moments are captured, so lean on their expertise!


Conclusion


Booking your wedding photographer early is one of the best decisions you can make in the planning process. Not only will this ensure that you secure your ideal photographer, but it also gives you plenty of time to work with them to create a photography plan that fits your vision for the day. By asking the right questions, understanding your photography package, and knowing the best times to schedule your photos, you’ll set yourself up for success and have stunning photos to cherish forever.

Ready to start planning your wedding photos? Reach out today to discuss how we can make your wedding day vision come to life!