What questions should you ask a wedding photographer about their experience with your venue?

Start by asking whether they have photographed a wedding at your venue. If they have, ask when it was and what the light was like at that time of year. You want to know whether the ceremony area gets harsh sun, whether the indoor spaces are dark, and where the best shaded or golden-hour spots are for portraits.

Ask about practical details too. Some venues have rules about where photographers can stand, whether flash is allowed during the ceremony, or whether certain areas are off limits. A photographer who knows these things will save you time and stress on the day.

If they have not shot at your venue, ask whether they will visit beforehand. Many photographers will do a recce or arrive early on the day to scout locations. Ask how they plan to handle tricky light or tight spaces they have not seen before.

Also ask how many weddings they have shot in total and how many at venues similar to yours, such as barns, hotels, churches or outdoor spaces. Experience with your type of venue matters as much as experience with your exact one, because the challenges are often the same.