What questions should I ask photographers before booking?

About their workflow

How long does editing take, and what's included? Do they deliver RAW files or only edited JPEGs? Can you request additional edits or reprints later? How do they back up your images, and what happens if data is lost? Are they insured? Do they have a second shooter if their primary gets sick? What's their cancellation policy if an emergency happens?

About your specific wedding

Have they shot your venue before, or are they willing to scout it? How do they handle the lighting conditions at your ceremony time? Can they do family formals efficiently, or do they prefer candids only? Do they have experience with your cultural or religious ceremony? If you have specific must, have shots, can they commit to those?

About how they work

Are they hands, on with posing or do they prefer natural moments? How do they handle difficult family dynamics? Will they enforce any guest restrictions (like phones down during ceremony)? Can they work with your wedding planner, or do they prefer to operate independently? What should you wear to look good on camera? These personality and process questions matter as much as technical skills.

Red flags

If a photographer is vague about deliverables, refuses to provide references, or won't discuss backup plans, look elsewhere.