Top 5 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before You Book
(From a Belfast-Based Wedding Photographer’s Perspective)
Booking your wedding photographer is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make when planning your big day; your photos will be the lasting memories you look back on for decades. But with so many talented photographers out there, especially in places like Belfast and across Northern Ireland, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
To help you choose with confidence, I’ve listed the top 5 questions every couple should ask their wedding photographer before booking, plus what to look for in the answers.
1. Have You Shot at Our Venue Before?
Why ask this: Experience with a venue means your photographer already knows the best lighting, angles, and hidden gems.
What to listen for: Even if they haven’t shot there, a confident photographer will talk about scouting locations ahead of time and adapting to new spaces.
Bonus tip: If you’re getting married somewhere like Drenagh Estate, Larchfield, or The Merchant Hotel, ask to see full galleries, not just Instagram highlights.
2. What’s Your Style of Photography?
Why ask this: Some photographers are more documentary and candid, others focus on fine-art or editorial. You want a style that feels true to your personality.
What to look for: Words like "natural," "authentic," or “relaxed storytelling” if you prefer unposed moments, or “classic and refined” if you're drawn to timeless elegance.
In Northern Ireland, where light can change quickly, you’ll also want someone confident working in a mix of conditions.
3. How Do You Handle Bad Weather?
Why ask this: Let’s be honest—Northern Ireland weather is unpredictable, and you need a photographer who embraces it rather than panics.
What to listen for: Reassurance, creative indoor ideas, experience with flash and natural light alternatives, and a plan B for portraits.
Pro tip: A confident photographer will see rain as an opportunity, not an obstacle!
4. Can We See Full Galleries from Real Weddings?
Why ask this: Instagram only shows the best 1%. You want to know what a full wedding day looks like through their lens, from prep to party.
What to look for: Consistency, strong storytelling, good lighting in all situations, and emotion in the moments captured.
Ask to see galleries from similar venues, light conditions, or seasons to yours.
5. What Happens After the Wedding?
Why ask this: Turnaround times, editing quality, and delivery formats vary between photographers.
What to listen for: A clear timeline (e.g. 4–6 weeks), online gallery access, print options, and whether albums or slideshows are included.
Also ask about rights to print, backup systems, and how long your gallery will be live.
Final Thoughts
Choosing your photographer is about more than price or popularity; it’s about trust, comfort, and knowing you’ll relive your day through beautiful, heartfelt images. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! The right photographer will welcome them.
If you’re currently looking for a wedding photographer in Belfast or anywhere across Northern Ireland, I’d love to chat and show you what a relaxed, natural wedding experience can look like.