Looking for a Hotel 1928 Wedding Photographer? Here’s What to Ask Before Booking!

Introduction

Hotel 1928 in Waco is a dream venue—blending historic charm with modern elegance. If you’re planning your wedding there, you already know how special it is. But here’s the thing: a venue this unique needs a photographer who knows how to do it justice.

As a wedding photographer who has worked in Waco, I can tell you that not all photographers are created equal when it comes to capturing the magic of a place like Hotel 1928. From the grand staircase to the warm, intimate reception spaces, you need someone who understands lighting, angles, and how to tell your wedding story beautifully.

So, how do you make sure you hire the right person? Here are the must-ask questions to find a photographer who will make your Hotel 1928 wedding look like it belongs in a magazine.

Experience & Style – Do They Match Your Vision?

Have You Photographed a Wedding at Hotel 1928 Before?

It’s always a plus when a photographer has worked at your venue before. They’ll know the best photo locations, how the lighting changes throughout the day, and how to navigate the space efficiently. If they haven’t photographed a wedding there yet, ask how they prepare for new venues. (Pro tip: A great photographer will always scout the location ahead of time or arrive early to get a feel for it.)

How Would You Describe Your Photography Style?

Do you want bright and airy photos? A dramatic, moody look? True-to-life colors? Every photographer has a signature style, and it’s important that their approach aligns with your vision. If you love natural, candid moments but hire someone who primarily does heavy posing, you might not love the final images.

Can I See a Full Wedding Gallery from a Similar Venue?

Instagram is great, but it only shows the highlights. Ask to see a full wedding gallery, preferably from a venue with a similar vibe to Hotel 1928. Pay attention to the consistency of their work. Are all the moments captured beautifully, or do only a few shots look good? This will give you a better sense of what to expect.

Packages & Pricing – What’s Included?

What’s Included in Your Wedding Photography Packages?

Wedding photography pricing can vary widely, and so can what’s included. Some key things to look for:
✅ Hours of coverage (Will they be there from getting ready to the grand exit?)
✅ Second shooter (Helpful for capturing multiple angles)
✅ Engagement session (Great for getting comfortable in front of the camera)
✅ Wedding album or prints (Will you get more than just digital files?)

Do You Offer Engagement Sessions, and Should We Do One?

If your photographer offers an engagement session, say YES! Not only do you get beautiful photos, but you also get to practice being in front of the camera before the big day. Many couples tell me it helps them feel way more relaxed when the wedding rolls around. Plus, we can shoot at or near Hotel 1928 to match the wedding aesthetic.

Are There Travel or Venue Fees We Should Know About?

While Hotel 1928 is in the heart of Waco, some photographers charge extra for travel if they’re coming from out of town. Additionally, some venues have vendor fees, so it’s always good to ask upfront to avoid surprises.

Wedding Day & Logistics – What’s Their Process?

How Do You Handle Different Lighting Situations?

Hotel 1928 has a mix of gorgeous natural light and dim, romantic indoor lighting. Not all photographers are skilled in both! Ask how they handle low-light conditions, whether they use flash, and how they adjust for different times of day. A pro photographer should be able to adapt to any lighting scenario without losing the mood of the space.

What’s Your Backup Plan If Something Unexpected Happens?

Let’s be real—things can go wrong. A photographer should have backup cameras, extra memory cards, and a solid plan in case of illness or emergencies. The last thing you want is to be scrambling for a replacement on your wedding day.

Do You Work with a Shot List, or Do You Prefer a Candid Approach?

Some couples love having a detailed shot list, while others prefer a more documentary-style approach. Most photographers will do a mix of both—capturing must-have moments while also documenting the day as it unfolds naturally. Be sure to communicate your preferences so they can tailor their approach.

Delivery & Post-Wedding – What to Expect

How Long Does It Take to Receive Our Wedding Photos?

A common question (and for good reason!). Most photographers deliver full wedding galleries within 4-12 weeks. Some offer sneak peeks within a few days. Be sure to ask about turnaround time so you know when to expect your images.

Will We Receive High-Resolution Files? Do You Offer Prints and Albums?

You’ll want high-resolution images for printing, not just small web-sized files for social media. Also, ask if they offer professionally printed albums—trust me, flipping through a beautifully crafted album beats scrolling through a screen any day!

Conclusion: The Right Photographer Makes All the Difference

Choosing the right Hotel 1928 wedding photographer is more than just checking prices. It’s about finding someone who understands your vision, knows how to capture the venue beautifully, and will make you feel comfortable and confident on your big day.

Asking these questions will help you book a photographer who not only delivers stunning images but also enhances your entire wedding experience.

Looking for a trusted Hotel 1928 wedding photographer? Let’s chat! I’d love to hear about your wedding plans and help you capture every unforgettable moment. Contact me here!