Before you book a photographer here are some questions to ask your wedding photographer. Hiring a wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you will make on your wedding day! After all, your photos are one of the few tangible items you will keep forever from your big day. You will need to talk with a few potential photographers to select the best photographer for you.
I believe there is a perfect photographer out there for every couple! Not every photographer will be a perfect fit – and that’s ok! Here is a list of questions to ask when hiring a wedding photographer from an experienced North Carolina photographer. Asking these questions will help you make an informed choice. You should be aware of the photographer’s approach, experience, and expectations before and after your wedding day so you are happy from contract to gallery delivery.
Questions to ask your wedding photographer before hiring them:
What is your wedding photography style?
This is probably one of the most important things to consider first when hiring a wedding photographer. Narrowing down which style speaks to you will help you find a photographer who edits their photos in this style. This can include traditional, documentary, candid, journalist, editorial, light & airy, moody, true to color, or vintage. I consider my style an editorial photographer with a true-to-color, timeless, elegant editing style. I am not a bright and airy style as I lean more into the darker shadows and undertones of an image but I don’t go as far as being a dark & moody style.
Will you be our photographer or do you send an associate?
Some photographers work with a team that they have hired and trust. When inquiring, be sure to ask if it is just them or if they have associates.
Do you offer film photography?
This has become a popular addition to wedding photography in the last few years! Be sure to ask your wedding photographer if this is something they offer and to see some examples of their work!
How do you protect our images? What if you have equipment issues?
Your photographer should take multiple steps to protect your images. I have two cameras and use dual SD memory cards, so each photo is saved twice. My second shooters also have dual card slots on their cameras. After the shoot, I back up everything immediately to two separate hard drives and a cloud service to ensure your photos are safe. Once edits are complete they are uploaded to an online gallery and delivered to the couple. Plus, I regularly check and maintain my equipment, and I bring backup gear to every wedding to be prepared for any issues.
Can you assist with the timeline? Can I request specific shots?
Most photographers will be more than willing to help you with your timeline! This is an important question to ask to gather their approach to the day and make sure you get all the shots you desire. Your photographer should ask you for any specific shots you would like. Learn more about a first look and planning your wedding timeline.
How many images do we get?
Most photographers will not promise an exact number of images. The gallery should fully represent your wedding day at the time they were present. A full wedding gallery can average between 500-800 images. You should ask, however, if you have the right to all of your images to download and share.
Ask your photographer to see an example of at least one full gallery before hiring them for your wedding.
Have you shot at our venue?
This is definitely not a make-or-break question, but it can speak to your photographers’ experience. If your photographer has shot at your venue they should be able to provide a full gallery for you to see. They also can share their experience with the lighting and locations for photos. If they haven’t shot at that venue – that is totally fine! You should get a sense that they feel comfortable and confident to capture your images no matter what on the day of the wedding. Some photographers may offer to do a site visit if necessary.
What is included in a wedding package?
Every photographer will create varying wedding packages that are different. Most commonly, wedding packages vary based on the time you hire the photographer. Less time will be a lower investment. On the higher end, wedding packages may include a second photographer, engagement photos, or an album. Be sure to ask the photographers you are interviewing what they include. You should also ask if travel is included and if your photographer requires lodging for the night of your wedding.
And finally ask yourself, “Do I like this person?”
It is important that you feel like you “click,” You should feel comfortable spending the whole day with them and feel like you have a connection. This will ensure your relationship is built on trust and respect and result in beautiful photos!
I hope these questions to ask your wedding photographer help you make your informed decision. I would love to be your wedding photographer! Inquire today with Infinite Splendor Photography to start talking about all of these questions!
I had the pleasure of photographing at the gorgeous Chateau des Fleures wedding venue in North Carolina! This styled shoot, or mock-up wedding, had a whimsical fairytale theme that matched this venue flawlessly. The venue is luxurious, magical, and perfect for couples looking for a castle-like estate as a backdrop to their day.
The architecture and the gardens are breathtaking! Upon entering the venue you are greeted with a beautiful cascading fountain and two majestic lion statues. If you host your wedding here you will have exclusive access to the Chateau and gardens for the day!
North Carolina Estate Wedding Venue at Chatea des Fleures
For the styled shoot we have two brides and a groom! The bride & groom models, EJ & Melanie, are a real-life couple and have children together! Even though the wedding was not theirs, it was so fun to capture their chemistry together. The solo bride, Juvy, is married with a child. She is a fashionista who loves to travel. I enjoyed photographing all three of them throughout this beautiful day organized by Sharon of Color it Purple Event Planning.
Each room of the estate has its own character and unique theme. We started the day photographing in the groom’s suite, complete with a pool table, dart board, and bar. Next, we moved into the bridal suite which has a spa-like feel. Just off of the bridal suite is the “Rapunzel” Tower and an expansive second-story balcony that overlooks the courtyard. There is an in-ground pool with a jacuzzi and a water fixture inside the courtyard, which was one of my favorite spots for portraits or a first look.
Mansion Wedding Venue in North Carolina
The ballroom at Chateau des Fleures is a stunning venue for a wedding reception. A grand staircase, reminiscent of a scene from a movie, leads to a mezzanine that wraps around much of the room. One of the focal points is an impressive fireplace, perfect for placing a sweetheart or head table. The space was beautifully illuminated by soft candlelight and adorned with floral arrangements. I loved the touch of the whimsical blue wedding cake filled with flowers!
I recently had the pleasure of visiting The Fields at Skycrest, a new wedding venue located in Cleveland, North Carolina. This picturesque location is not only a working farm on 95 acres but also offers modern and luxurious amenities for weddings big and small. I was thrilled to collaborate with the venue owners and Jennifer of Knot Your Average Events to plan a styled shoot, or a mock-up wedding, with a unique French-inspired theme. Drawing inspiration from iconic artists Van Gogh and Matisse, we designed the shoot with vibrant colors and unique details.
Charlotte, North Carolina Wedding Venue
The Fields at Skycrest is perfect for couples looking for versatile and open spaces. The property includes spacious getting-ready suites for both the bride and groom, a large covered pavilion with a stone fireplace, an outdoor patio for cocktail hour, and a large reception area that can host up to 300 guests. Although the space is new, it is filled with character and charm.
For this styled shoot, we wanted to create something different with many unique local vendors. We used custom table numbers with acrylic preserved flowers, a hand-painted aisle runner, a flower market cart, and an adorned Juliet balcony. We also incorporated Matisse-inspired accents, like prints on the sofa pillows and a hand-painted champagne bottle. To add a memorable touch, we had stilt walkers during the cocktail hour! This shoot was a reminder that couples can make their wedding day unique and personal. This serves as a reminder to couples to make your wedding day unique and anything but ordinary!
The Fields at Skycrest Wedding with Colorful Florals
During the shoot, we worked with different models in various spaces. Abby, one of our solo brides, was new to professional photography but was already comfortable and confident in front of the camera. Her parents were there to support her, as I’ve known Abby’s family for years—her mom is my administrative assistant.
We also photographed a real-life couple, DeSean and Jada, who are getting married at this venue in August 2025. Jada is a professional model, and DeSean grew up around photography, as his mom is also a photographer. During the shoot, they talked about their wedding plans, like Jada’s idea for a floral ring above the ceremony space and DeSean’s wish for a “first look” on their wedding day. Interestingly, our shoot marked the first time DeSean saw Jada in a wedding dress, and it was a very emotional moment for him. It will be such a special moment on their real wedding day!
As a North Carolina wedding photographer, one of the questions I often get is, “Should we have a first look on our wedding day?” While there is no right or wrong answer, this decision comes down to what is most important to you and your partner on your big day!
Sticking to the tradition of seeing each other as you walk down the aisle is always so special. However, there are many practical benefits to having a first look! Here are the reasons why you should consider having a first look on your wedding day.
What is a “First Look”?
First of all, what is a first look? A first look is a private moment for just you and your partner before your wedding ceremony. Usually, only your photographer (and videographer, if you have one) is there to document the moment as you see each other for the first time. You can also use this time to exchange special gifts, private vows, or love letters without anyone else around.
While many brides dream of their groom having an emotional reaction when they walk down the aisle, I find that is not usually the case! Some grooms wear their hearts on their sleeves and express their emotions no matter what, while others get very nervous with a crowd of people watching. It’s important to consider both of your personalities and what would make you most comfortable when deciding if you want a first look or not. A private can feel more relaxed for most people and allow you to get emotional without the pressure of walking down the aisle!
Wedding Photography Timeline
Choosing whether or not to have a first look is very important because it will determine the entire flow of your day. If you choose NOT to have a first look, you should plan on taking the majority of formal photos immediately after your ceremony. It only leaves about an hour or so before your reception begins. If you DO have a first look it allows us plenty of time to take your formal portraits before the ceremony. If you have a large wedding party or family I can’t recommend a first look enough!
I will usually begin with portraits of just the two of you together, and then take portraits with your bridal parties and families immediately after. Not only does this allow for plenty of time for photos, but also allows for the possibility of traveling to more locations to get a greater variety of photos if you desire. We will also consider the best times for natural light depending on the season.Learn more about how to prepare for your wedding day photos.
Take Photos When You Look and Feel Your Best
Another benefit to a first look is that your hair and makeup are still fresh, your dress is pristine, and your accessories are perfectly in place. You and your partner will be full of energy and excitement, and your smiles will be genuine and vibrant. This makes for photos that capture you at your absolute best. Remember the portraits are typically the ones you frame or are some of the best from the day so we want to make sure you look and feel your best!
Enjoy More Time with Your Guests
If spending lots of time with your guests and attending your cocktail hour is important to you then be sure to have a first look! By getting most of your formal photos out of the way before the ceremony, you’ll have more time to spend with your guests during cocktail hour and have a drink with your family and friends. After the ceremony, you can still take a few freshly married photos, but without the rush, allowing you to join your loved ones sooner and get to be a part of your day!
Planning for Quiet Moments on Your Wedding Day
A first look provides a much-needed pause before the rush of the day. It’s a moment to breathe, to be fully present, and to take in the significance of what’s about to happen. This moment together can be incredibly grounding and alleviate some of the pre-ceremony jitters. Believe it or not, sometimes this is one of the few moments you get alone with your partner! So take it in!
If you love the idea of the intimacy of a first look, but still want to save the moment of seeing each other for the aisle, consider a first touch instead. This can involve holding hands around a door or wall or standing back-to-back, with eyes closed. This can offer the same calming and intimate benefits without revealing each other before the ceremony. Just being able to talk, hold hands, and share a moment can bring a sense of calm and connection to your special day.
Deciding Whether or Not To Have a First Look
Ultimately, your wedding day is about you! Decide whether or not to have a first look that feels right for both of you. Don’t let tradition, friends, or family dictate your choice! Consider your personalities and genuinely consider how might you feel standing in front of a lot of people. After all, whether you choose a first look or not, the most important thing is that your day reflects what is most important to you and your love story!
Preparing for wedding photos begins long before the big day! As a Raleigh, North Carolina wedding photographer I want to share my best tips and tricks for getting photos you love! With great communication with your photographer and thoughtful planning, your photos will turn out beautifully and become cherished keepsakes for years to come. After all, your photos are one of the few tangible items from your special day – it’s important to get them right!
Keep reading for my professional tips to help you achieve a polished and beautiful look for your wedding photos, ensuring every moment is captured perfectly.
Preparing for Getting Ready Photos
When your photographer arrives on your wedding day, one of the first things they will start to capture is your details, also known as flat-lay photos. This is a great way to capture all of the items you have worked so hard on for your wedding day like your invitations and color scheme.
I recommend you use an empty shoe box to keep all of your details in one place. When your photographer arrives they can just get started capturing all of these items for both partners. This is also a great time to photograph any family heirlooms that are meaningful to you or special gifts exchanged on the day of the wedding. Asking your florist to set aside some flowers or greenery from your bouquet or decor can elevate these photos.
Include anything such as:
your invitation suite with envelopes including the invitation, RSVP card, save the date, menu card, and wax seal
both partner’s wedding bands
engagement ring
decorative ring boxes
perfume bottle
bouquet
boutonnieres
cufflinks
tie
wedding shoes (both bride and groom’s)
veil or hair accessories
vow books
jewelry and earrings
heirloom items
meaningful items to your relationship
Keep Your Getting Ready Suite Clean
To capture stunning getting-ready portraits on your wedding day, it’s essential to have a clean and organized space. A tidy environment not only looks better in photos but also helps you feel more relaxed. With bridal party members and family moving in and out, the room can quickly become crowded and messy. Designate a separate room or a hidden corner where everyone can store their belongings and food to keep the main area free from clutter.
Aim for a clean and well-lit space, as this space will be used for getting-ready photos and possibly your first look. Being mindful of what’s visible in the room will ensure your getting-ready photos look great!
Create a Shot List with Your Photography
A shot list is a detailed list of names and titles provided by you to your photographer, ensuring they capture the exact photos you want of your family and friends. For example, it might include the father of the bride/groom, mother of the bride/groom, grandparents, and other important family members for your portraits. Having a shot list helps make the formal portrait session efficient, allowing the photographer to call people by name and organize the process smoothly. If you are doing a first look, these photos can be taken before your ceremony. Otherwise, family portraits typically happen immediately after the ceremony while everyone is in one place!
Your photographer will have you help create this shot list ahead of time. It’s crucial to inform them of any special instructions or family logistics, such as unique family dynamics, accessibility needs, or a death in the family. Being sensitive to these things can help the photographer manage the portraits with care and respect. These details can affect the time portraits will take on your wedding day, depending on the number of photos you desire and the number of family members involved.
Prepare for Wedding Photos by Creating a Timeline
A timeline is essentially a master document outlining what will happen and when on your wedding day. It serves as a guide for not only your photographer but all of your vendors, ensuring everyone is on the same page about the timing of key moments and the duration of various activities. Your photographer will play a significant role in creating your timeline to ensure you have enough time for all of your portraits.
One major decision to consider is whether or not to have a first look. There’s no right or wrong choice—it depends on your preferences for the day. If attending your cocktail hour and getting photos done beforehand is important to you, then a first look might be the best option. Every wedding day is unique, and a well-planned timeline will ensure you have ample time for everything that matters to you.
When creating your timeline, it’s also a great opportunity to share some inspirational photos of poses you like for portraits and the overall vibe you want for the day. This will help your photographer clearly understand your vision and ensure your photos turn out exactly as you envision.
Getting The Perfect Post Ceremony Kiss!
At the end of your ceremony when they announce you as husband and wife, your kiss should be anything but short and sweet! Don’t rush through it, even if you are anxious. Breathe and enjoy the moment! This will give your photographer a few extra seconds to capture the moment perfectly and your officiant can move out of the way.
When you walk down the aisle together, pause for a dip kiss at the end of the aisle! These pictures are always some of my favorites because they are full of emotion as your guests cheer you on!
To get it right you must practice, practice, practice. Do not wing it on the wedding day! To do the dip the bride should cross in front of the groom and dip with the side or profile facing the photographer (NOT with her head or feet towards the photographer). Grooms should lean with the bride in the dip often with one leg diagonal or toe touch & other leg bent slightly. The bride bends one leg and the other leg is diagonally up. The bridal bouquet should be held in a natural position down towards the ground. Like I said, this will take practice but will be worth it for the photo!
Preparing for Wedding Day Photos of Reception Decor
Similar to your getting ready details, your photographer will also be capturing any decor. Your photographer will usually capture these before any guests have entered the reception. In your timeline, allow for time for the photographer to get these photos while everything is still bright and clean! Ensure they know about things like special signs, favors, or desserts to ensure they get a photo!
Capturing Great First Dance Photos
When out on the dance floor for your first dance (with your partner or parent), try not to rush! Any special choreographed moves should be held for a moment! When “spinning”, always spin with the bride or mom going underarms to the right, allowing for a clear shot of her face. It’s also a great idea to let your photographer know of any special details of the dance before the wedding day so they are better prepared to capture the exact moment.
By taking these steps to prepare for your wedding photos, you’ll ensure that every precious moment is captured beautifully. From organizing your getting-ready space to creating a detailed shot list and practicing key moments, thoughtful preparation can make a world of difference. Your wedding photos are more than just images; they are lasting memories that you will cherish for a lifetime. Communication with your photographer is key!
I would love to capture your North Carolina wedding day and ensure you receive photos you love! Reach out to tell me more about your wedding and check my availability!
