The Top 3 Questions to Ask an Event Photographer Before Hiring Them (and What Answers to Look For)
Planning a wedding, corporate event, or milestone celebration is exciting, but choosing the right photographer can make or break how you remember the day. As one of the leading event photographers in the greater Kansas City Metro area and specifically Lawrence, KS, Fresh Feature Photo & Film knows that asking the right questions before booking is the key to finding the perfect fit.
Here are the top three questions to ask any event photographer, and what to look for in their answers.
1. What Is Your Experience with Events Like Mine?
Why Ask: Every event has its own pace, lighting challenges, and important moments. A photographer who specializes in the type of event you’re hosting will know how to anticipate the action and capture it beautifully.
What to Look For in Their Answer:
Specific examples of similar events they’ve photographed (weddings, corporate galas, live performances, charity fundraisers, etc.).
A portfolio showing consistent quality in different lighting conditions.
Confidence in adapting to fast-paced or unpredictable situations—because not every moment can be staged.
Pro Tip: If you’re hiring for a corporate event in Lawrence, KS, ask about their comfort level with professional headshots, branding images, and candid networking shots in the same day.
Answer:
I want to take a moment to answer each of these questions before sending you down to my FAQ sheet at the bottom of this blog. Over the years as a photographer and videographer, my team and I have had the chance to work with all kinds of people at all kinds of events. If there is one thing I have learned it is that no two events are the same and that is exactly what keeps things fun. Whether it is figuring out tricky lighting, making sure the sound is crystal clear, or wrangling the little details that always pop up, we have it covered. At the end of the day our goal is to deliver a final product that looks polished, feels professional, and makes you say, “Wow, that was totally worth it.”
2. How Do You Handle Lighting and Venue Challenges?
Why Ask: Event photography often means dealing with dimly lit ballrooms, outdoor sunsets, or a mix of indoor and outdoor setups. Poor lighting can ruin even the best moments—unless your photographer knows how to adapt.
What to Look For in Their Answer:
References to professional lighting equipment and backup gear.
Knowledge of low-light techniques and how to work without disrupting the atmosphere.
Flexibility in adjusting to changing weather or venue conditions.
Pro Tip: The best photographers can show you before-and-after examples of challenging lighting situations they’ve mastered.
3. What Is Your Turnaround Time for Photos (and How Are They Delivered)?
Why Ask: Your event may only last one night, but the anticipation for the photos lasts much longer. A clear, realistic delivery timeline ensures you’re not left wondering when you’ll see your images.
What to Look For in Their Answer:
A specific timeframe for image delivery (e.g., “You’ll receive your full gallery in 2–4 weeks”).
Whether you’ll get a sneak peek within a few days.
Details on how your images will be delivered (digital gallery, USB drive, printed albums, etc.).
Any retouching or editing that’s included.
Answer:
I know the excitement is real once the event is over and you are ready to relive all those moments. For most events, you can expect to receive your full gallery within two to four weeks. I also like to send a little sneak peek within the first few days so you have something to share right away and to hold you over while I finish up the rest.
Your photos are delivered through a private online gallery where you can easily view, download, and share them with family and friends. If you order prints or albums, those are handled after the gallery is complete and are delivered straight to you. Every image in your gallery is edited for color, lighting, and overall polish so that what you receive is clean, consistent, and ready to enjoy.
I like to think of it as giving you a Netflix style release, a little teaser to get you excited and then the full binge worthy gallery once it is all ready.
Why These Questions Matter
Choosing an event photographer isn’t just about loving their portfolio; it’s about making sure they have the skill, adaptability, and professionalism to deliver under any circumstances. When you ask these questions, you’ll be able to confidently choose someone who can capture your event exactly as you envision it.
At Fresh Feature Photo & Film, we believe in transparency, preparation, and creating timeless images that tell your story. Whether it’s a wedding in the heart of Lawrence, KS or a corporate event in Kansas City, we’re ready to deliver photos you’ll treasure for years to come.
Ready to talk about your upcoming event?
Book your consultation with Fresh Feature Photo & Film today and let’s start planning the perfect coverage for your big day.
