While you’re busy running around saying yes to the dress and tasting a dozen different cake combinations in preparation for your big day, it’s also important to take the time to find the perfect wedding photographer.

Whether you live in the tri-state area or North Carolina or North Dakota, one thing is for sure: it’s important to hire a photographer that you trust.

Are you gearing up to hire a wedding photographer? If so, ask these five questions.

What is your photography style? Are there any certain shots/vibes you like to capture?

Whether you performed an online search or asked friends for recommendations, chances are you’ve already been to your potential future photographer’s website. Great! You’re on the right track!

Browsing a photographer’s website gives you a very good sense of their photography style and what you can anticipate your wedding photos will look like. Still, it’s always best to hear about how your photographer sees his/her work straight from the horse’s mouth.

Also, don’t forget to ask if there are any certain poses or backgrounds they love to shoot. You’ll get a good idea if the photographer is a good fit for your and your spouse-to-be with this simple question.

How many photographers will be on-site?

One photographer may very well be enough if you’re wedding is on the small-to-medium side (less than 100 people). However, if you’re inviting your entire town, it’s likely you’ll need at least one additional photographer.

Especially if you’re planning a wedding for the ages, don’t overlook the importance of a second (or third or fourth) photographer.

Do you have any other weddings/events this weekend? Are you available for pre-wedding activities?

During a busy wedding season, your photographer may very well be covering two or even three weddings a weekend from Friday through Sunday. So if you’re interested in hiring a photographer to cover your rehearsal dinner or any other wedding-related event not on your actual wedding day, this may be a deal-breaker.

Confirm your photographer’s schedule or, at the very least, ask about how they handle weekends with multiple bookings.

When can I expect you the day of the wedding?

Discuss with your photographer the best time for them to arrive during the “getting ready” portion of the day. Some professionals like to get there as hair and makeup are wrapping up, while others arrive bright and early to ensure there’s enough time to set-up for portraits and to capture those little moments (dress, shoes, rings, etc.).

How long does it take for the edited, final photos?

Couples are always anxious to get the finished product back after their wedding is over and that’s completely understandable. But as with all art, editing and putting together a final photography package takes time.

If you’re on pins and needles just thinking about waiting for your wedding photos, then make sure you get a concrete time estimate. For the most part, photographers take anywhere from 4 to 8 weeks depending on the size and scope of the event.

In terms of everything you need to think about before your wedding, choosing a photographer is definitely one of the most crucial steps. A photographer will be there to freeze those special moments of your wedding and preserve them for your lifetime and beyond. But you need to make sure you’re a good fit for one another.

I really enjoy the “getting to know you” time period with new couples. For the past 30+ years, I’ve worked with countless clients. I’ve shared in the joys of their special day and relived those moments as I edited and prepared both photography and videography packages. I came into this business because I love capturing these capsules of time and it’s this passion that has kept me here for so long. I don’t mind when potential clients come to me with these questions and neither should any good photographer!

By starting with these 5 questions, you’re well on your way to finding the right photographer for your needs.