17 Event Photographer Interview Questions and Answers

An event photographer is hired to take photos at special occasions like weddings, bar and bat mitzvahs, and corporate functions. An event photographer’s job is to capture the feeling of the event and the guests’ experience in photos.

While some event photographers work for themselves, others work for photography studios or event planning companies. If you’re interested in becoming an event photographer, you’ll need to know how to answer event photographer interview questions so you can land the job you want.

In this guide, we’ll give you some tips on how to answer common event photographer interview questions. We’ll also provide sample answers to help you prepare for your interview.

Are you comfortable working in front of crowds?

Event photographers often work in front of crowds, so employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable with that. In your answer, share a time when you worked in front of a crowd and how you handled it.

Example: “I am very comfortable working in front of crowds because I have done it many times before. At my last job, I was the official photographer for several large events. One event had over 1,000 people in attendance, but I didn’t even notice them while I was taking pictures. I just focused on getting the best shots possible.”

What are some of your favorite types of events to photograph?

Event photographers often specialize in a certain type of event, such as weddings or corporate events. Knowing what types of events they enjoy can help employers know if you’re the right fit for their company. When answering this question, try to mention some specific types of events that interest you and why.

Example: “I love photographing weddings because I find them so romantic. It’s always fun to capture all of the special moments between the bride and groom, like when they see each other for the first time at the ceremony. Another favorite is capturing sporting events. I’ve been a lifelong fan of basketball, so it’s exciting to get to photograph games where the action is fast-paced and there are lots of great photo opportunities.”

How would you handle a situation where a client was unhappy with the photos you took of their event?

Event photographers often work with clients who are looking for specific shots. If a client is unhappy with the photos you take, it’s important to be able to explain how you would handle the situation and what steps you would take to ensure that they’re satisfied with your work.

Example: “I understand that sometimes clients may not like all of their photos. In my previous role as an event photographer, I had a client who was disappointed in some of the candid shots I took during their wedding. After speaking with them about their concerns, we decided on a compromise where I would retake some of the candid shots they were looking for at another time so they could have both sets of photos.”

What is your process for getting the right shot?

Event photographers need to be able to quickly assess a situation and determine the best angle for capturing an image. Employers ask this question to see if you have a process in place that helps you get the right shot as efficiently as possible. In your answer, explain what steps you take when getting ready to shoot at an event.

Example: “I always arrive early to events so I can scout out locations before guests arrive. This allows me to find the best angles for taking photos of the event space and any important people who will be attending. When it’s time to start shooting, I try to capture candid moments between family members or friends. These are often my favorite shots because they show real emotions instead of posed ones.”

Provide an example of a time when you had to be flexible in order to get the right shot.

Event photographers often have to work in a variety of conditions, so employers ask this question to make sure you’re comfortable with change. Use your answer to show that you can adapt quickly and still get the job done.

Example: “I was hired for an outdoor event where it rained all day. I had to move my equipment multiple times as the rain moved around us. However, I managed to capture some great shots despite the weather. The client loved them, and they were happy that we were able to provide photos despite the rainy conditions.”

If a client wanted to purchase rights to a specific photo, what would be your process for determining its value?

This question can help interviewers understand your negotiation skills and how you would handle a situation that could be challenging. Your answer should show the interviewer that you are confident in your ability to make decisions on behalf of the client, while also ensuring they get what they want.

Example: “I would first ask them why they wanted rights to the photo. If it was for personal use, I would offer them a lower price than if they were using it for commercial purposes. After determining their intentions, I would then research similar photos from other photographers to determine an appropriate value.”

What would you do if you arrived at an event only to discover that you left your memory card at home?

This question is a great way to test your problem-solving skills and ability to adapt. Your answer should show the hiring manager that you can think on your feet, make decisions quickly and still deliver quality work.

Example: “I would first ask if there was any way I could borrow a memory card from someone at the event. If not, I would take photos with my phone and then use an app to transfer them to my computer later. This may not be ideal, but it’s better than leaving the event without taking any photos at all.”

How well do you know the different types of lighting and exposure techniques that event photographers use?

Event photographers need to know how to use different types of lighting and exposure techniques to capture the best images possible. This question helps employers determine if you have experience with these skills and can apply them during an event. In your answer, share what types of lighting and exposure techniques you’re familiar with and explain why they are important for event photography.

Example: “I’m very familiar with natural light, strobe lights, flashlights and reflectors. I find that each type of lighting has its own benefits depending on the situation. For example, natural light is great because it’s free and doesn’t require any additional equipment. However, it may not be bright enough in some situations. Strobes are a good alternative because they provide more consistent lighting than natural light. Flashlights are also useful when working indoors or at night.”

Do you have experience using photo editing software?

Event photographers often need to use photo editing software to enhance their images. Employers ask this question to make sure you have the necessary skills to complete your job duties. Before your interview, review the job description to see if they list any specific software requirements. If so, share that you have experience using those programs. If not, explain that you are willing to learn new software as needed.

Example: “I am familiar with Photoshop and Lightroom. I used these programs in my last role to edit photos before uploading them to social media. I also learned how to use VSCO Cam to edit my photos on the go.”

When shooting a wedding, what is your process for building rapport with your clients?

This question can help interviewers understand how you interact with clients and build relationships. It can also show them your interpersonal skills, which are important for event photographers to have. When answering this question, it can be helpful to mention a specific strategy you use when interacting with clients.

Example: “I find that the best way to build rapport with my clients is by being friendly and personable. I try to make sure they feel comfortable around me so they don’t feel nervous or awkward during their photo shoot. I always introduce myself before the wedding and let them know who I am and what I’ll be doing throughout the day. This helps them get used to seeing me at different points in the day and makes them more comfortable.”

We want to attract younger clients. How would you market our company to a younger demographic?

Event photographers often work with a variety of clients, including those who are younger. Employers ask this question to make sure you can market their company in a way that appeals to all types of people. In your answer, explain how you would use social media and other marketing strategies to attract new customers.

Example: “I have experience working with many different age groups at events. I know that the best way to appeal to everyone is by using high-quality photos on social media. I would create an Instagram account for your company and post beautiful images from each event. This will help young people see what kind of work you do and hopefully attract them as clients.”

Describe your process for developing a relationship with subjects in your photos.

Event photographers often work with a variety of people, including the subjects in their photos. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience working with different types of people and can create positive relationships with them. In your answer, explain how you approach meeting new people and what steps you take to ensure they feel comfortable during the photo shoot.

Example: “I always try to be as friendly and welcoming as possible when I meet my subjects for an event. I introduce myself and shake hands or give a hug if it’s appropriate. I also let them know that I’m there to capture beautiful moments between them and their loved ones. This helps put everyone at ease and makes them more willing to pose for me.”

What makes you stand out from other event photographers?

Event photographers often have to compete for clients, so employers may ask this question to see if you can set yourself apart from other event photographers. In your answer, try to highlight a skill or quality that makes you unique and valuable as an event photographer.

Example: “I think what sets me apart from other event photographers is my ability to capture candid moments at events. I always make sure to be aware of the entire event space so I can quickly move around to get the best shots. This means I’m able to capture many different angles of each moment without disrupting the flow of the event. My clients love getting photos back with lots of variety.”

Which types of events have you photographed in the past?

Event photographers often specialize in a certain type of event, such as weddings or corporate events. Employers ask this question to make sure you have experience with the types of events they hold. Before your interview, read through their website and social media pages to see what types of events they host. If you notice any similarities to the types of events you’ve photographed before, share that information with the interviewer.

Example: “I’ve worked primarily as a wedding photographer for the past five years. I also do some work as a portrait photographer at birthday parties and family reunions. While I don’t have much experience photographing corporate events, I am familiar with the typical setup of these events. This is because I regularly attend industry conferences where I can learn from other professionals.”

What do you think is the most important thing to remember when shooting an event?

Event photographers need to be aware of their surroundings and the people they’re photographing. They also need to know how to use their equipment properly, so interviewers ask this question to make sure you understand what’s expected of you in this role. In your answer, explain that it’s important to stay focused on your job while shooting an event. You should also mention that it’s crucial to keep track of time and deadlines when working at events.

Example: “I think the most important thing to remember when shooting an event is to always stay alert. I’ve been to many events where something exciting happened, but I didn’t notice because I was distracted by something else. It’s also important to keep track of time and deadlines. For example, if a bride asks me to shoot her wedding, I’ll make sure I have enough memory cards and batteries to last the entire day.”

How often do you update your portfolio?

Employers want to know that you’re constantly improving your skills and portfolio. They may ask this question to see if you have a process for updating your work regularly. In your answer, explain how often you update your portfolio and what steps you take to ensure it’s always current.

Example: “I try to update my portfolio at least once per month. I usually do this by taking new photos of events or weddings I’ve photographed in the past. If I’m photographing an event where I can’t take any pictures, I’ll use stock images from sites like Unsplash or Pixabay. Then, I edit them using Photoshop or Lightroom.”

There is a natural delay between when you take a photo and when it appears on your camera’s screen. How do you adjust to this when shooting?

This question is a good way to assess your ability to work under pressure and adapt quickly. It also shows the interviewer how you handle technology challenges in the field. Your answer should show that you can troubleshoot problems on the fly, as well as communicate with clients about any delays or issues.

Example: “I have found that there is usually a delay of at least one second between when I take a photo and when it appears on my camera’s screen. This means that I need to anticipate what I want to capture before taking the shot. For example, if I am shooting a bride walking down the aisle, I will start taking photos before she reaches the front of the church so that I can review them after the ceremony. If I see that I missed something, I will ask her to do it again.”