I’ve talked on my Instagram Stories about how this is booking season for photographers and also Four Things to Consider When Booking Your Wedding Photographer. Because of this, I wanted to share in a little more detail on how to inquire with a photographer.

So, you’ve done your research and you found the photographer you want to book with… but what is the process? How do you get started? What are you supposed to say?

Know your price range ahead of time

This is one of the most helpful and crucial parts when searching for your photographer. Keeping your price range in mind, it can save a lot of time for you as a potential client and also for the photographer. This way we’re not responding to clients that already know they’re not in the price range for our services. One way you can find whether or not you’re in the price range is to search the photographers website.

Websites are meant to be helpful and informative! On my website I list my average cost (which is often listed under a tab called, “details”, “Information”, or “Investment”) that all potential clients can expect to invest for my professional services & expertise. I welcome all and any potential clients to search my website.

Email is the best method of contact

For me, personally, I prefer email. When I receive a direct message through Instagram I will always redirect the client to the contact form on my website. However, if it’s not a Wedding inquiry then I will have the client just send me a direct email. Either way, it is all still being funneled through email. This helps me to have my inquiries organized and I’m not double-booking anything!

Another reason why I love why email is because it’s also more efficient than Instagram messaging. I can collect all the information that I need upfront to see if the Wedding or Session is a good fit. I love getting to know my potential clients because it’s how I build lasting client relationships. Email is also best because that’s how I send my pricing guide which is ultimately what the client is looking for!

Lastly, OK, so you’ve found the photographer you want to book with. You have also found their price range on their website and you’re ready to move forward. So go ahead and fill out the contact form (fill it out completely; the more details the better!). This helps us on our end to read over the information and understand the potential client that we could be working with and just have a little more information to work with from the start.

Final thought: An inquiry does not mean booking

An inquiry is just finding out more details if the photographer is available or if they are a good fit. Once I receive an inquiry, I send out a questionnaire getting to know the couple better, what their dreams are for their wedding day and my pricing guide. Only after that point when the clients are ready to move forward, it becomes a booking! When they decide to book, then the process moves onto the signing the contract and collecting the non-refundable retainer. If they choose to go the other way, no harm no foul because nothing was secured and it was just simply an inquiry!

If this post was helpful, you’ll also enjoy these:

How to Avoid the Most Stressful Part of a Wedding Day

Four Ways to Avoid Stressful Family Photos on Your Wedding Day