Essential Questions to Ask Before Booking your Wedding Photographer

Hey there lovebirds and soon-to-be newlyweds! Planning your dream wedding can be a whirlwind of excitement, but when it comes to capturing those precious moments, you want to make sure you've got the perfect photographer by your side. And hey, if you're in the stunning Pacific Northwest, particularly around Seattle, Snohomish, Woodinville, or Bellingham, you're in luck because we've got some of the most talented shutterbugs around. But before you say "I do" to just any Seattle WA wedding photographer, there are a few questions you'll want to ask to ensure they're the right fit for your special day. So grab a cup of your favorite brew (or a glass of bubbly, no judgment here!), and let's dive into the essential questions to ask your Seattle wedding photographer before you book! 📸💍🎉

How would you describe your style as a photographer in seattle?

Light & airy, Whimsical & Timeless.

Will our wedding pictures be edited?

Yes! That’s part the service I offer. Receiving unedited photos would be  comparable to going to a 5 star restaurant and the chef brings you the ingredients instead of the meal you ordered. Editing your wedding photos in my light & airy style is part of the overall product. 

What’s this going to cost me & do you offer payment plans?

I require a retainer fee to reserve your date on my calendar. The remaining balance is due in full 30 days prior to your wedding. Many couples looking for wedding photographers in Seattle choose one of my payment plans as a means of making the splurge more affordable:

  • 4 equal payments

  • Monthly payments

  • 50/50 

For more information about the wedding photography pricing, click here.

Will you be my actual wedding photographer, or will it be one of your associates?

That’s entirely your choice! Collections with me begin at $5k. Collections with my associates begin at $2,995. It all depends on your budget & my availability. 

Do you have backup photographers who will shoot the wedding if you're sick?

Of course! I’m part of a community of professional wedding photographers in Seattle who are all eager to help one another out in the event of an EMERGENCY. I don’t believe in getting sick. ;) 

Do I need a second photographer? 

Are you having more than 75 guests? Do you plan on having a wedding party? If you answered yes to either of these questions, I highly recommend getting a second photographer. Every collection includes the option to add a second photographer for an additional fee of $1000.

How long after the big day do we get to see the wedding photos?

You’ll see previews on social media of your wedding pictures the week after the big day. The full gallery is available 30 days after your wedding day. Relive a full wedding here: https://bjonesphotos.pic-time.com/client

Will you follow a shot list? Or do you prefer to have free reign to capture the festivities how you see fit?

I request that all couples provide me with a shot list for family wedding Photos. For the rest of the day, you can trust that I will capture your day as it happens organically. That being said, during our final planning meeting my couples always share with me the photos they are most excited about so that we can customize their photography experience to their wants. 

What are the restrictions for sharing photos online or for publication? Do you own the copyright to the photos?

I do— However, you have unlimited personal use of the photos for printing/download. 

Do you bring your own lighting?

Heck yes! It's my job as a wedding photographer! ;) Whatever the venue lighting situation, you can trust we'll add any necessary light to create light & airy photos.

What will you wear while taking wedding photos?

I like to dress like a “nice guest.” Generally this means a black or neutral colored dress or skort with classic jewelry & ballet flats. 

Should I do a first look?

Whoever said a first look takes away the aisle moment clearly hasn’t experienced the double dose of happy tears like we did! 😂💕 As a bride turned photographer, trust me when I say that the first look is a game-changer on your big day. 

But here’s the real kicker - the #1 reason my couples swear by the first look? You get to ditch the FOMO and actually enjoy your cocktail hour with your guests! 🥂 No more sneaking away for photos while missing out on the fun. It’s a win-win situation, folks!

Curious about the other 9 unexpected benefits? check out 10 UNEXPECTED BENEFITS OF DOING A FIRST LOOK

How long have you been a wedding photographer?

I’ve been living my best life as a wedding photographer in seattle for 11 years now.

What specifically is included in my wedding collection?

Every wedding collection we offer includes the following:

  • 8 HOURS OF PHOTOGRAPHY

  • 1 PHOTOGRAPHER

  • CURATED & EDITED DIGITAL IMAGES

  • AN ONLINE GALLERY THAT DOESNT EXPIRE

  • PRINT RIGHTS

  • WEDDING DAY POSING GUIDANCE

  • PHOTOGRAPHY TIMELINE ADVICE

  • RESPONSIVE COMMUNICATION

  • PLANNING CONSULTATION

  • DISCOUNTED ANNIVERSARY SESSIONS FOR LIFE

Many of my couples choose to add the following luxury upgrades:

  • WEDDING ALBUM

  • SECOND PHOTOGRAPHER

  • ENGAGEMENT PHOTOS

  • WEDDING DAY BOUDOIR AND A LITTLE BLACK BOOK

  • WEDDING ALBUMS FOR THEIR PARENTS

How do I get the contract back to you?

It’s easy peasy— the contract is built into your online booking portal.

Are there any additional fees beyond what’s quoted?

All taxes & fee's are included in the custom quote I put together for you.

Do you carry liability insurance?

yep!

 

Ready for wedding photos you’ll be obsessed with?