Eight top tips for choosing a photographer
If you are thinking about working with a photographer, it can be a nervous thought. In reality, there are so many photographers out there. With so many different collections and packages it can be overwhelming to decide which one is right for you and your needs. Often, just the thought of trying to pick a photographer is enough to put you off even trying! I get it, honestly I do. However, why not take a look at the below eight top tips that will guarantee you pick the best photographer for your needs.
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The photographers style
Every photographer has their own creative style. At the same time some like to work in black and white, others stay classic whilst others like to modernise through post production editing. Photography is subjective and is interpreted differently by different people. Choose a style which closely aligns to your artistic style. Therefore, one of the best way to do this is to check out galleries on their website and ask yourself, is this the type of work that I would like to hang on my wall? If you want to check out my style, take a look here.
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The photographers personality
I cannot emphasise this point enough. Ordinarily, having your photograph taken can be an overwhelming experience. You need to know that you can build a rapport with your photographer. Some people might prefer to have a male photographer over a female or vice versa. For this reason, you might be able to gauge a photographers personality through visiting their website but don’t be afraid to pick up the phone. I offer a complimentary chat before I take on any new clients just to check that we are compatible and that I can answer any questions ahead of time.
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Photographers location and where you would like your photographs taken
Some people like to travel to a studio for their photographs. Conversely, others like to stay in the comfort of their own home whilst others like to venture into the great outdoors. Perhaps you want a mix? Talk this through with your photographer ahead of time so that this can be factored into your package. I, personally, do not have a studio, opting to work in clients own environments as I find this helps to relax and have fun. I also work outdoors to capture my clients enjoying the goodness of the fresh air and amazing scenery we have here in the North West.
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Value for money
Photography is a considered purchase, it’s not a necessity like a loaf of bread. Therefore, you need to stay realistic with you budget so that costs stay within your limit. One of the very important questions you need to ask during your research is what is included in the package. There are a range of fees that could be included in your package such as a studio fee, cost for digital images and cost for prints or framed prints. This may range from just a few photographs to all of them taken at the session. Some photographers may offer you a headline fee with say, five prints then you pay extra for more or for them digitally. As a result, always ask for these costs upfront so that you can budget for them ahead of time.
At Inspired By Joseph my philosophy is simple. If I’ve taken the time to photograph a client and edit all of the photos, you can have them all digitally. In reality, they are not useful to me, they aren’t going to hang on my living room wall! Plus I know from experience that everyone likes different photos, what you like is different to Grandma, Dad, brother etc! You can see my collections here.
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Photographers speed and flexibility
Are you in a rush for your photographs? Ask how long it will take to receive them. It may be that you see proofs first online, then may need to narrow down a selection for printing, then wait for the printing and framing. Or you might just receive all the files digitally in one go. This is how I work at Inspired By Joseph and I aim to produce all of the photographs to you in super quick time on a secure, password protected website!
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Level of personalisation
As I’ve alluded to earlier, photography is subjective. In reality, some photographers may have quite a fixed way or style of working, whilst others might offer more flexibility. For example, if you have certain props that you would like to use or a ‘must have’ photo, have that chat beforehand. In other words, that pre chat is so important!
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Your rights to the images
Check out who retains the copyright for your images and always let the photographer know whether or not you consent to them using your photographs in thier marketing material. You might find this blog post useful.
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Recommendations and reviews
I’ve left one of the most important til last. Ordinarily, you can’t beat asking friends and family for personal recomendations. They will be very honest with you I am sure. In addition, check out reviews online from google, facebook or other such websites. As a result, these can often lead to questions too which can be helpful for the pre chat. You can check out my kind words here.
Is there anything else you think of? Please let me know by commenting below. If you have any general questions, please do contact me. At Inspired By Joseph photography, I am super passionate about making sure I can fit my clients needs before we work together. I am always happy to direct you to other local photographers who might be more suited to you based on your needs.
Other blog posts you might find useful:
A day in the life of a family photographer
Three quick tips to encourage you to take more photos now
8 reasons why I love photography
I agree with you in that friends and family can be a great source of referrals when looking for a good photographer. It goes without saying that it is important to make sure you consult with those who have experience in this matter since they would be able to provide the best suggestions. My daughter is getting married in a few months and wants to make sure she chooses the best person to help her keep good memories of her special day.
Sounds like a good plan John, I hope she finds someone that she is able to connect with at a personal level on such an important day in her life!
Thanks for these tips, as my wife and I search for a photographer we’ll focus on finding someone who is flexible and willing to shoot in outside locations. There’s nothing like a beautiful family photo with a nature backdrop. I’ll also keep the copyright aspect in mind!