The Pre-Wedding Questionnaire: Why Every Photographer Needs One!
Ever shown up to a wedding and realized there’s a first look you didn’t know about… or that the bridal party is triple the size you expected?
This is exactly why I send a pre-wedding questionnaire to every couple I work with. It’s my go-to tool to stay organized, efficient, and fully prepared—so I can give my couples the best experience possible and eliminate any unnecessary stress on their day.
Prefer to watch instead?
Here’s the full YouTube video:
Why a Pre-Wedding Questionnaire Is a Must
As a wedding photographer, one of the biggest gifts you can give yourself (and your couple!) is the ability to show up fully prepared. A solid pre-wedding questionnaire helps you:
Avoid unexpected surprises
Get clear on your couple’s priorities
Stay on time throughout the day
Know exactly what to expect and plan for
Build trust and show your professionalism
Whether it’s a surprise first look, sentimental heirloom jewelry, or a huge bridal party—this form helps you plan accordingly and ensures you never miss the moments that matter most.
Key Things to Ask in Your Questionnaire
Here’s what I always include in mine (and what I recommend adding to yours!):
1. Wedding Day Logistics
Make sure you ask for:
Exact ceremony & reception addresses
Getting ready locations (for both partners)
Timeline details like ceremony time and dinner start time
Distance between locations (to build a realistic timeline)
2. Must-Have Photos & Couple Priorities
Your couple should share:
A family photo list (with names and relationships)
Bridal party size (5 vs. 15 makes a big difference!)
Details list (rings, heirloom pieces, invitation suite, etc.)
Wedding colors & theme (so their gallery looks cohesive)
Any surprises, traditions, or meaningful moments
Tip: I guide my couples through this inside my wedding guide so they feel confident filling it out!
3. First Looks & Emotional Moments
Ask ahead of time if they’re planning:
A first look (with each other or someone else)
Letter readings, gift exchanges, or special moments
Knowing these in advance helps you build the timeline strategically so nothing feels rushed or missed.
4. Vendor Information
Request:
A full vendor list (planner, florist, DJ, etc.)
Contact emails for each one
Why? It helps you connect and build relationships—and I love sending vendors their photos quickly after the wedding. It’s a great way to network and get referrals!
How It Makes the Wedding Day Smoother
When you have all the right information before the wedding day, you can plan your time with intention.
You’ll avoid rushing through portraits.
You’ll be prepared for lighting, weather, and location changes.
You’ll feel calm and confident—which helps your couple feel the same.
And most importantly, you’ll get to focus on being creative, not just reactive.
I've been in situations where couples only had 5 minutes for portraits, and trust me—it’s not ideal. Having that questionnaire ahead of time gives you the tools to build a timeline that works for everyone and protects your couple’s most meaningful moments.
Download My Free Pre-Wedding Questionnaire
If you’re a wedding photographer and want to make your days run smoother, I’ve got you covered!
Click here to download my FREE Pre-Wedding Questionnaire Template
Use it with every couple you book. It’ll save you time, help you stay organized, and make you look super professional.
Final Thoughts
A wedding day runs so much smoother when you’re not just showing up and figuring it out as you go. Taking the time to ask the right questions up front can completely change your client experience—and your stress levels.
If you want even more tips for growing your photography business, check out this post next:
How to Start a Wedding Photography Business in 2025
And as always…
Keep building what you love.
—Leah 💛
