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I capture the unspoken — the glances, the silences — drawing from New York's pulse and the richness of global cultures. Every wedding is its own intricate narrative. Rooted in theatre and life's everyday rhythms, I document moments both transient and timeless. 

Hey, I'm susan!

What To Ask Before Hiring a Wedding Photographer

Finding the perfect wedding photographer can be a daunting task. With so many options available, it’s important to thoroughly discuss with any potential photographer before deciding. To help you navigate this process, here are some essential questions to ask a wedding photographer before hiring them.

Top of the Rock Wedding Pictures

What is Your Photography Style?

Understanding a photographer’s style is crucial because it should align with your vision for your wedding photos. At Susan Stripling Photography, my style combines documentary wedding photography, editorial wedding photography and fine art. I focus on capturing candid, emotional moments and creating beautifully composed portraits. I aim to tell your unique love story through a mix of spontaneous shots and carefully crafted images that you’ll cherish forever.

A group of bridesmaids hugging for a photo at a Brooklyn Botanic Garden wedding.

What Do Your Packages Include?

Knowing what is included in the photography packages can help you make an informed decision. My packages at Susan Stripling Photography are designed to be comprehensive and customizable. They typically include a pre-wedding consultation, coverage on the wedding day, professional editing, and a beautifully curated online gallery for easy sharing and downloading. Additionally, I offer options for albums and prints to ensure your memories are preserved in the highest quality formats.

Brooklyn bridge wedding photography at the River Cafe

Do You Have an Assistant or a Second Shooter?

Having an assistant or a second shooter can be beneficial, especially for larger weddings. I often work with a trusted second shooter to ensure that critical moments are captured from multiple angles. This allows for a more complete and diverse collection of images, capturing the big moments and the little details that make your day memorable.

A bride and groom sharing a kiss in front of a glass dome at their beautiful Brooklyn Botanic Garden Wedding.

Do You Work With Videographers?

Collaboration with videographers is essential for a seamless wedding day experience. I have extensive experience working alongside videographers and understand the importance of coordinating our efforts. This ensures that your photos and videos are of the highest quality and that we don’t interfere with each other’s work.

venue spotlight brooklyn botanic garden

Have You Worked at Our Venue Before?

Familiarity with your venue can be a significant advantage. I have worked at many popular wedding venues in New York City and beyond, and I am always excited to explore new locations. If I haven’t photographed at your venue before, I will research thoroughly beforehand to understand the best spots for photos and to ensure everything goes smoothly on your wedding day.

brooklyn winery wedding best wedding photographer

Do You Create a Shot List?

While I love capturing candid moments, I also work with couples to create a shot list for specific group photos or special requests. This ensures that we don’t miss any important shots and that your photos reflect your vision.

How Do We Receive the Photos? Do We Get an Online Gallery?

Understanding how you will receive your photos is essential for planning how to share them with friends and family. At Susan Stripling Photography, I provide an online gallery where you can easily view, share, and download your images. The gallery is user-friendly and allows you to order prints directly from the site, making it convenient to enjoy your photos in various formats.

Celestine Brooklyn wedding portraits at Brooklyn Bridge Park

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect wedding photographer involves asking the right questions to ensure they are a good fit for your needs and vision. By discussing their style, packages, and experience, you can feel confident in your decision. At Susan Stripling Photography, I am committed to providing an exceptional and personalized experience, capturing your wedding day in a way that tells your unique story.

If you’re ready to start this incredible journey with Susan Stripling Photography, visit my services page, gallery, or contact page to learn more and schedule your consultation. Hiring a wedding photographer is a significant decision, and I’m here to make it as easy and enjoyable as possible.

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Get to know the artist who captures NYC's essence. Discover Susan's journey, her inspirations, and the passion that drives her every click. 

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Have a moment or a vision you want captured forever? Reach out and let's discuss how we can bring your photographic dreams to life. 

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