The key questions every couple should ask, especially if you're booking a wedding photographer in NYC or Westchester.


Choosing your wedding photographer is one of the most meaningful decisions you’ll make while planning your big day. After all, once the flowers fade and the cake is eaten, it’s the photos that bring the memories back to life. And if you’re getting married in a fast-paced, dynamic place like New York City, finding the right NYC wedding photographer can make all the difference.


But beyond just loving someone’s Instagram feed, how do you know they’re the right fit? Here are the most important questions to ask your wedding photographer before you book—plus why the answers matter.

1. How do you approach the wedding day?


This might be the most important question to ask your wedding photographer. Are they more of a fly-on-the-wall documentary-style shooter, or do they step in to guide you during portraits? How much direction do they give? And how do they capture the in-between moments?


At Joliette Marie Photography, I balance candid, documentary storytelling with gentle guidance. I want you to be fully present in your day; hugging your people, laughing till you cry, sneaking kisses during cocktail hour. I’m there to capture it all naturally, and when it’s time for portraits, I’ll step in with thoughtful posing that flatters your angles and feels true to who you are. My goal is for you to feel confident and relaxed, never stiff or overly posed.

Two brides shares an intimate moment together outdoors with white fence and trees in background in Long Island

2. Can we see full wedding galleries?


It’s easy to fall in love with someone’s highlight reel on social media. But weddings aren’t just golden-hour portraits; they include dimly lit dance floors, family formals, getting ready details, and everything in between. That’s why one of the best questions to ask your wedding photographer is whether they can share full galleries from real weddings.


I always share full galleries with potential clients because I believe in transparency. You deserve to see how I capture a full story, from start to finish (not just the Pinterest-worthy moments).


(Check out this gallery from a November wedding at the Waterview in CT!)

Hands carefully pinning a white floral boutonniere onto the lapel of a black tuxedo jacket at a wedding in NYC.

3. What’s your backup plan in case of emergency?


Life happens. Cameras break. Trains get delayed. And while it’s unlikely anything will go wrong, you want to know that your photographer has a rock-solid plan if it does. Asking about emergency plans is a sign of a savvy client, and a good photographer will appreciate the question.


As a seasoned NYC wedding photographer, I always bring backup equipment (extra cameras, lenses, memory cards, and batteries), and I work with a network of trusted professionals who could step in if needed. I also back up your photos in multiple locations after the wedding to keep your memories safe.

Happy newlyweds show off their wedding rings while holding a vibrant orange and red bouquet outside a columned building by NYC photographer

4. How do you handle family photos?

This is the part of the day that can get stressful—but it doesn’t have to be. A great photographer will guide this process smoothly and efficiently so you can get back to celebrating.

Before your wedding, I’ll help you create a customized family photo list so we know exactly which groupings matter most. On the day itself, I’ll take charge in a kind, confident way to make sure no one goes missing and everyone feels included.


Bridal party photos? I’ve got you covered there, too. I love getting a mix of classic, clean portraits and fun, candid moments that reflect your crew’s unique energy. Whether your group is full of goofballs, glam vibes, or laid-back besties, I go with the flow and guide you through it in a way that feels natural and easy.


Throughout the day, you’ll get plenty of formal photos and lots of genuine, unscripted moments—the belly laughs, the quiet hugs, the cheers and happy tears. It all matters.

A wedding party celebrates outdoors in autumn with colorful fall foliage and floral bouquets. Captured by NYC wedding photographer.

5. What’s included in your packages?


When booking a wedding photographer in NYC, pricing can vary widely. It’s important to ask not just how much, but what’s included. Do you get timeline support? A second shooter? High-resolution downloads?

All of my collections include:

  • A pre-wedding consultation (in-person or virtual)
  • Custom timeline support to keep the day flowing smoothly
  • A full online gallery of high-resolution, edited images to download and share with loved ones
  • An heirloom quality wedding album to have your memories on hand for generations to come (+parent albums are included in some packages)
  • Second shooter coverage
  • A complimentary engagement session
  • And of course, unlimited cheerleading from me throughout the process!


A romantic wedding couple embraces in a garden courtyard with stone walls and blooming roses at a Spanish-style venue in NYC

Bonus: How do you feel when talking to them?


This isn’t something you can measure, but it matters just as much as anything else. Your photographer will be with you during some of the most intimate, emotional, and joyful parts of your wedding day. Do they make you feel comfortable? Do you feel seen and heard? Do you trust them?


At the end of the day, you want a photographer who gets you and who understands what matters to you and makes you feel completely yourself. Trust your gut. It’s usually right.


Your photographer plays a huge role in your wedding day experience—not just in capturing it, but in helping it feel good in the moment. These questions are a great starting point for any couple booking a wedding photographer in NYC. And if you’re in the process of finding your perfect match, I’d love to talk.

A loving couple in formal wedding attire share intimate moments against a rustic white fence backdrop captured by Joliette Marie Photography