Many people often ask me for advice on how to choose a photographer, so I thought it was about time I gathered my answers all in one place. This list is a good starting point for figuring out what to look for when choosing a photographer who will be right for you.
1. Do you get along with them? This one is often overlooked, but it’s very important. Many people find having their picture made can be somewhat intimidating. It takes a special photographer who knows how to help you relax and bring out the best in you. Finding someone who can do that can be a challenge because it’s the sort of thing you really won’t know until you’ve worked with them. And by then, it can be too late. So ask the photographer if they have a special introductory package available at a reduced rate. Also, it’s a good idea to find out if they’re willing to get together before your session so they can get a better idea of what you’re looking for. Being comfortable with your photographer can make all the difference in getting results you will truly love.
2. Does the studio offer lots of choice? When selecting a studio or photographer, make sure they provide a range of packages to choose from. Also, check to see that they offer both standard and custom prints sizes. When ordering prints, you’ll want to be able to select from a number of poses. Having a variety to choose from will help you reach a final decision. Unfortunately I have found that many photography studios have a set number of poses or shots available to choose from, which really limits your options. The more choices you have, the better your chances of finding the perfect images and sizes for you home.
3. Can they meet your schedule? We all know how hard it can be to fit everything in, so you’ll want to choose a photographer who is flexible enough to match your particular schedule. And it’s important to know that your photographer won’t keep you waiting and will be ready for you as soon as you arrive, especially if you have kids. You know how quickly those little guys can mess up their hair or clothes. At the same time, you don’t want to ever feel rushed. So it’s best to select a photographer who leaves plenty of time for your session and doesn’t take a revolving door approach to their subjects. Getting that ideal photograph often takes time. This is especially true with newborns and toddlers who sometimes need a break from the lights and camera. Choose a photographer that’s willing to spend the time it takes to get the results you want.
4. What lighting options do they offer? Lighting style is a key consideration when choosing a photographer. You want your photographer to be knowledgeable about and have access to a range of lighting styles and equipment. This will ensure that whatever lighting set up is used will be the most flattering to your skin tone, facial structure and the image as a whole. And don’t forget to ask if the photographer’s studio can make natural light available. Skilled lighting will ensure that you walk out with a cherished work of art, and not a stale, boring yearbook picture.
5. Do they offer flexible location options? The ability to be flexible when it comes to weather and location is essential to getting exceptional results. Depending on your needs, you may want to select a photographer who is comfortable photographing outdoors. Outdoor settings can often add that perfect special touch to your photographs. In addition, it’s important to find a photographer you would be comfortable inviting to your home, and who’s willing to take the time needed, should you wish to have your photography session at home. And, of course, you should also seek out a photographer who is serious enough about their craft to have invested in a fully outfitted professional studio. By having all of these location options available to you, you’ll stand a better chance of getting photographs that really stand out.
6. What steps do they take to process your photographs? It goes without saying that capturing that initial image with the camera is a critical piece. But it’s just the beginning. Ask your photographer about their experience using traditional darkroom techniques in digital photography. It’s a good idea to be wary of a photographer who insists on using blanket settings to adjust images, or worse, doing nothing. Select a photographer who is meticulous in processing and touching up your photographs to achieve the best possible results for your images.
7. Will your prints last? Let’s say you’ve gone to the trouble of having professional prints made to hang on your walls. It’s obvious that you’ll want them to last for a long time. It may surprise you to learn that many photographers send their prints out to a photo lab, whose prints typically last only a few decades before fading or turning yellow. To prevent this from happening, choose a photographer who is professionally trained in printing techniques, one who is adept at producing gallery-quality artistic work using only archival stock, specifically designed to preserve your images for many many years to come.
8. Are they professional? For the best results, it’s a good idea to confirm that your photographer is a genuine professional. In a world where digital imaging is so readily available, you should consider checking sources such as the National Professional Photographers Association, the Seattle Professional Photographers Association, and the Better Business Bureau.
9. Do they have references? Client references can often give you the most reliable information about a photographer, because they come from first-hand experience with the photographer’s entire process. Ask your photographer to share references with you and follow up on them.
10. Do you like their work? Obviously this can be the deal breaker when it comes to choosing your photographer. Take a look at their portfolio. Analyze their work to see if their style and tastes match your own. Check out their Web site and look at the images carefully. See if they have the ability to create different moods and effects with their lighting style. Make sure that they present their subjects in the best possible manner, and see if they’ve taken the effort to display for you all the various locations available for potential sessions. You want your photographer to inspire you, so that when you hang your photographs in your home you may inspire others as well.
That makes ten. Depending on what you are looking for some of these may be more important than others. I suggest prioritizing based on your own requirements and of course add other stuff that you feel is important. Good luck with your quest to find your next photographer and we hope this information has been helpful.
