
“One of the fastest ways to find the solution to an issue or challenge you are facing is to ask the right questions.” – Robin S. Sharma
Planning a wedding is without a doubt a full-time job on its own. It can be stressful finding the answers you need in a sea of so many. So I decided to create a space where important questions about wedding planning and wedding photography can be answered so you can book your dream wedding photographer. In this ultimate guide series, I will be answering five of the top wedding photography questions weekly. This week, I want to cover the initial questions you may have when you’re just beginning your search.




You’ve said yes, you’ve got the ring and the vision and you are ready to start planning! I am over the moon for you and this new journey. You’ve likely been waiting for this day to happen and have already had your heart set on your dream wedding photographer but when do you inquire with them?
Some wedding photographers will not officially book a couple without a secured date with your wedding venue of choice. Having your wedding venue booked locks in your wedding date allowing your wedding photographer to know his or her availability securing this date just for you.
However, I have had many of couples reach out to me first about my availability before booking their venue because wedding photography is a top priority. If you are flexible on your date reach out to your venue about availability in your preferred wedding month and inquire with multiple dates for your dream wedding photographer. From there book your wedding venue and then secure your wedding photographer!
There are many different types of weddings that require different answers. So I will break it down according to each.

This answer may be different for other wedding photographers. As some may not meet officially until the wedding day due to location or overall scheduling. I would encourage each couple and wedding photographer to at the very least meet over a Zoom Meeting to talk about wedding planning, to get an understanding of personalities, and overall become comfortable with each other if meeting in person is not an option.
For me, I meet with my couples following the first email connecting us. It’s important for me to be able to connect directly with my clients, to hear their story, and to dream about their day with them. Because most of my clients are in different states or countries we chat via video often. While not all of my couples require an engagement session, though I highly encourage you should- more on that in another blog, when they do I try to schedule that as soon as possible. This gives us a chance to talk, connect and work together before the wedding day.
Wedding photos are very personal so connect with your photographer as soon as you can to make sure the vibe is right for you. We want you to feel comfortable. So schedule a call first thing and video, or in person meeting following soon after.



As stated in a pervious question there are many types of weddings and each will require their own times.
Of course the timelines vary based on your wedding vision. When inquiring with your wedding photographer you should talk about the initial timeline of events to get an idea of what your day will look like for better planning.

With a full wedding weekend this can vary based on timeline of events, guests, and activities. For the full wedding day coverage you should have anywhere from two to three photographers.
All of my wedding collections have a second photographer as a basic requirement. There are too many moving parts and I don’t want a single one to not be remembered.
For micro weddings and elopements you are able to schedule one photographer because everything is happening pretty closely. Of course there many be special requirements where two are needed but you should need more than that.

I am a firm believer that weddings are not a one size fits all. This is why I create customized collections and treat each wedding individually. You are as unique as your big day. From the initial discovery call to the final product. So planning should be based on your needs, wants, and dreams.
I will be answering questions every week. Please, feel free to reach out if you have any questions of your own. You can ask me on my instagram or inquire here or leave a comment below!
ashly@ashlymccoy.com | 912.429.4465
© Ashly McCoy Photo 2013-2026