Wedding invitation suite with elegant gold calligraphy and greenery accents displayed on a dark background.

Congratulations!


After weeks of searching you’ve found a wedding photographer with a portfolio you love, experience at the best wedding venues in Tampa, and a great personality at a price you can afford. Here’s some questions to ask before you sign the contract…


Elegant wedding invitations and stationery with floral designs and calligraphy displayed on a rustic wooden surface.

“Will you personally be photographing our wedding?”


There are many companies who contract photographers out, and the work you see on their site may not be the work of the person who actually comes to your wedding. Especially if you hear the phrase “associate photographer”, you should be curious. It’s not a definite red flag, but it’s something to clarify

”What’s your process for safeguarding our images until they’re delivered?”


Every photographer has their own workflow, but it should guarantee that your images are saved in no less than 2 independent and redundant locations from the moment of capture (pro grade cameras can write to 2 storage cards simultaneously) until delivery.

A close-up black and white photo showing hands adjusting the lacing on the back of a delicate lace wedding dress.
Close-up view of a bridal bouquet with white flowers and eucalyptus leaves held against a lace wedding dress.

“what are your payment terms, do you allow/charge for installments?”


Most photographers will have some combination of retainer/deposit to book, and final payment due sometime before the wedding. Some will allow you to spread the payments into smaller periodic amounts, which can help with managing cash flow prior to the big day.

“Do you have insurance?”


Your photographer may not be allowed to work at your chosen venue without being able to prove that they have liability insurance, It’s best to clarify that they do before it can become a problem. It’s also a good idea to look their business up on sunbiz.org to see if they are registered with the state. A legitimate Florida business should pass both of these checks.

A romantic wedding hairstyle featuring soft waves adorned with delicate baby's breath flowers and greenery.
A romantic floral arrangement featuring roses, dahlias, and greenery in shades of coral, burgundy, and blush pink.

“Will you provide our images to other vendors?”


Generally, in your contract your photographer will explain that they retain copyright of your images, and that you will have usage/printing rights to them. There will also likely be a model release included. This means that they are able to share images from your wedding with other vendors. If that’s something you will have concerns or wishes about, it’s best to talk through it before the wedding.