Groom lifts bride during first dance at outdoor wedding reception with live band these newly weds knew the question to ask your photographer

10 Questions to Ask Your Wedding Photographer Before You Book in South Carolina

Weddings

Flat lay of wedding rings and invites

Choosing your wedding photographer is one of the most important decisions you’ll make while planning your big day. These photos are the memories you’ll hold onto for decades to come. That means knowing questions to ask your wedding photographer before you book matters. If you’re not sure where to start, here are the top questions to ask your wedding photographer—plus how I personally answer them here at Carter’s Creative.

Whether you’re planning a wedding in Columbia, Charleston, or anywhere across South Carolina, these tips will help you feel more confident and prepared as you make this decision.

1. What’s your photography style?

Every photographer has a different approach. Some are highly editorial, while others focus on documentary-style images. Ask what to expect so you know it aligns with your preferences.

How I answer: My photography style is timeless, warm, and emotional. I love true-to-color edits that feel both vibrant and classic. Most of all, I focus on connection, capturing those quiet, in-between moments that show how your day felt.

2. How do you help us feel comfortable in front of the camera?

This is a big one! So many couples tell me they feel awkward in front of the camera at first—and that’s okay.

How I answer: I keep things relaxed and fun. I’ll guide you with light posing that feels natural and let real moments unfold. You don’t have to “perform”, you just get to enjoy being together, and I’ll handle the rest.

3. Have you photographed weddings in our area or at our venue?

Hiring someone with local experience can make a huge difference when it comes to light, timelines, and weather.

How I answer: I photograph weddings all over South Carolina, including Columbia, Charleston, and the surrounding towns. I know how to plan around the light, navigate summer heat, and make the most of every venue—from ballrooms to backyards.

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👉 View wedding and engagement galleries

4. What’s included in your wedding packages?

Every photographer structures their pricing differently, so it’s always a good idea to clarify what’s included up front.

How I answer: My collections include full-day coverage, a second shooter, an online gallery with high-resolution downloads, and printing rights. I also help build out a custom timeline for your day and am always here for guidance along the way.

5. What happens if something unexpected comes up? *One of the most important question to ask your wedding photographer!

Wedding days don’t always go according to plan. It’s important to hire someone who can pivot gracefully and still deliver beautiful images. Follow up this question by asking if they have a legal contract so you both will have a shared understanding of expectations.

How I answer: Rain, timeline shifts, you name it—I’ve seen it all. I stay calm under pressure and work with your team to keep things moving while capturing everything authentically.

6. Can we see a full wedding gallery?

This is one of the most helpful things you can ask! A full gallery gives you a better sense of what a photographer captures throughout the entire day.

How I answer: Absolutely. I’m happy to share full wedding galleries so you can see how I document everything—from details and portraits to reception moments and candids.

An emotional moment between a smiling father and his daughter

7. What’s your turnaround time?

Some photographers take 2 weeks, others take 3 months. It’s helpful to know what to expect.

How I answer: I deliver sneak peeks within 2–3 days, and full galleries within 6–8 weeks. Your gallery will be delivered online and is easy to download, print, and share with loved ones.

8. Do you help with our timeline?

You’d be surprised how much photography timing impacts your wedding flow!

How I answer: Yes! I create a custom timeline with every couple. From when to plan your first look to making sure we catch that golden-hour glow, I’m here to guide you through it all.

📸 Check out my guide on what to bring for flat lay wedding photography

9. What do you bring for flat lay wedding photography?

Those detail photos of your rings, invitation suite, and florals? That’s flat lay photography—and it’s something I love creating.

How I answer: I bring a few neutral ring boxes, styling mats, and ribbons to elevate your details. But I always recommend bringing your own personal touches, too—like your invitation suite, extra florals, and all three rings.
📸 Check out my guide on what to bring for flat lay wedding photography

10. Why do you love photographing weddings?

This one’s a more personal question to ask your wedding photographer, but it tells you a lot about how they approach your day.

Columbia, SC wedding portrait outdoors – South Carolina wedding photographer

How I answer: I love that I get to tell your story—not just through pretty portraits, but through the meaningful, emotional moments that happen between them. From getting ready to the last dance, I’m there to document your legacy.

Final Thoughts You Won’t Regret knowing these questions to ask your wedding Photographer

If you’re looking for the right photographer, these questions to ask your wedding photographer will help you find someone who truly fits. I’m here to make sure your wedding feels effortless and beautifully documented—from the quiet moments to the joyful chaos.

If you’d like to learn more about what questions to ask your wedding photographer, check out this link and read more on Brides.com

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