The photographer you hire will be responsible for creating the tangible memories that will serve as a reminder of your wedding day for years to come. As such, it's important to know what to ask when interviewing a potential professional.

Benson encourages engaged couples to ask how many photos they'll receive, if there will be an engagement session included, and what the turnaround time is after your wedding.

1. Look at their website

A wedding photographer is an essential vendor that will create cherished memories for you and your partner, so it’s important to choose someone who shares your preferred style. You can do this by asking the right questions during your inquiry process.

Some of the key things to ask a wedding photographer include:

What’s your shooting and editing style? While it’s not necessary for every professional to shoot in the same style, you can get an idea of their aesthetic and if it aligns with your vision by looking at their website.

You should also learn about their packages and pricing. It’s important to know what is included so that you don’t end up with unexpected expenses. It’s a good idea to ask about travel costs and any other add-ons that may apply (such as engagement photos or a second photographer). Also, be sure to inquire about how long it will take to receive all of the images from your wedding.

2. Look at their portfolio

You’ll likely want to see a photographer’s portfolio before you schedule your initial meeting. Look at how they use composition to create images that tell a story. Do they include shots of both posed and candid moments? If their entire portfolio consists of one-shot, smiling brides and grooms outdoors, you may want to consider another option.

Similarly, if your ideal wedding photos are filled with light and airy colors and the timeless elegance of a classic style, you’ll want to ensure that your photographer is able to deliver on those goals. If you’re drawn to darker, moodier colors, a photographer who specializes in black and white photography may not be the best fit for your big day.

Also, don’t be afraid to ask about the process of getting your final gallery, including how long it will take for a sneak peek (some photographers can provide this within a few days) and when you can expect to receive the rest of the photos.

3. Ask for references

When choosing one of your wedding day vendors, you need to feel confident that they will be there for you from start to finish. That's why asking for references is so important!

You want to ask for a list of their past clients who can talk to you about their experience with the photographer. This is the best way to get a true understanding of what your wedding day will be like with that vendor.

It's also a good idea to ask about their editing style. This is something that can really change the look and feel of a photo. Some photographers prefer to have a light and airy feel, while others love a more warm and moody tone.

Also be sure to find out if they provide corrective services such as evening skin complexion or smoothing flyaway hairs. This is something that most photographers will offer but some will not so it's important to find out beforehand.

4. Ask for a quote

During your initial inquiry it's important to ask the photographer what their starting prices are. This is so that you know whether or not they fall within your budget. Some photographers may also have add-ons to their packages such as an assistant or videography. Knowing what to expect is important as it will help you determine if they're the right fit for your event.

It's also important to find out if they have any cancellation guidelines in their policy. This will ensure that if for some reason it's not a good fit, both parties won't waste their time.

In a perfect world, all couples would work with vendors that align with their own personal values and priorities. However, it's not always possible, and that's okay! Just remember to be respectful during negotiations and don't be afraid to say no if the fit isn't right. This will save you time and disappointment in the long run.