What to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before Booking: Essential Questions for Manchester Couples
Choosing the right wedding photographer is a big decision. You’re trusting someone to document one of the most important days of your life — and with so many styles, personalities and approaches out there, it’s natural to wonder:
“What should we ask before booking?”
To make things simple, here’s a clear and practical list of questions every couple should ask their photographer — along with the reasons why each question matters. With 18+ years photographing weddings across Manchester and the North West, these are the conversations that help you feel confident in your choice.
Wondering about pricing? Start here:
Manchester wedding photography pricing guide.
1. Are you available for our date?
It sounds obvious, but popular dates go quickly — especially:
- Summer Saturdays
- Bank holidays
- Fridays in June–September
- Repeating/“easy-to-remember” dates
Check availability early and don’t assume your date is free.
2. What’s your photography style?
You need to know whether the photographer is:
- Natural/documentary
- Traditional/posed
- Editorial
- Fine-art
- A blend of styles
This defines how your entire day will feel.
If you want relaxed, real and unobtrusive photography, make sure the photographer aligns with that from the start.
3. Can we see full wedding galleries, not just highlights?
Highlight reels only show the top 1–2%.
A full gallery shows:
- Consistency
- Storytelling
- Emotional coverage
- Low-light performance
- How group photos look
- How the evening looks
This is the most important proof of real-world skill.
4. Have you photographed at our venue before?
This isn’t essential, but it’s reassuring.
If not, ask whether they:
- Research the venue
- Visit ahead of time
- Know the lighting
- Understand logistics
- Have wet-weather options
Experience + preparation = predictable results.
5. What’s included in your packages?
Clarify exactly what you’re paying for:
- Coverage length
- Number of images
- Online gallery access
- Sneak-peeks
- Travel
- Backup workflow
- Second photographer options
No hidden extras, no jargon — everything should be transparent.
6. How many hours of coverage do we need?
A professional should guide you on:
- Full-day coverage
- Half-day coverage
- Prep-only
- Ceremony to speeches
- Evening add-ons
If photography is important to you, full-day coverage is usually the safest and most consistent choice.
Book your photographer with confidence
7. What happens if it rains?
Manchester weather is unpredictable. A competent photographer should have:
- Indoor and outdoor backup plans
- Covered spaces in mind
- Weatherproof equipment
- Flexible timelines
- A calm, confident approach
This is where experience matters.
More booking support in the Manchester Wedding Photography Advice Hub.
8. Do you work well with videographers, registrars and venue teams?
Smooth coordination is essential.
A great photographer:
- Knows how to work around video
- Understands registrar/church rules
- Respects venue staff
- Helps the day run smoothly
- Stays discreet and professional
Communication behind the scenes makes your day calmer.
9. What’s your editing style and turnaround time?
Ask about:
- Colour style
- Contrast and tones
- Black & white usage
- Turnaround for sneak-peeks
- Turnaround for full gallery
- Delivery method (online gallery preferred)
Transparency here is crucial.
10. How do you back up our photos?
This protects your memories.
A professional should have:
- Dual camera card backup
- Multiple hard drives
- Off-site/cloud storage
- Long-term gallery hosting
If the photographer dodges this topic — red flag.
11. Do we need a second photographer?
Not every wedding requires one. Your photographer should explain clearly:
When you do:
- Two prep locations
- Over 100 guests
- Restricted ceremonies
- Multi-venue days
When you don’t:
- Small weddings
- Single venue
- Relaxed schedules
- Minimal formality
Honesty builds trust.
12. How many photos will we receive?
A good photographer avoids vague answers.
For full-day coverage, you should expect:
- 500+ fully edited, high-resolution images
- No cap
- No hidden fees
- No extra charges per image
Quality + consistency are more important than hitting a fixed number.
13. Do you offer engagement shoots?
These are ideal for:
- Camera-shy couples
- Building confidence
- Creating relaxed images for invitations
- Getting to know your photographer
It makes the wedding day feel easier and more natural.
14. How do we book you?
The process should be simple:
- Enquiry
- Online meeting
- Booking fee
- Contract
- Planning call
- Final timeline review
No complexity. No pressure.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your photographer should feel straightforward and reassuring. Ask the right questions, look for honest, confident answers, and trust your instinct when you connect with someone whose style and approach fits your vision.
If you'd like personalised guidance for your Manchester wedding, I’d be happy to help.