You would think it would be a simple thing. To choose a photographer to capture you and/or your family.
The thing is, there are a lot of photographers out there.
Each and everyone of them offer something a little bit different.
There are so many different things to consider, so I thought I would help break it down a little bit. . . . and these are actually in no particular order. It just depends on what would be most important to you.
Price. If you are shopping on price alone, then you can probably just stop right here. I know you think, well they all have a camera. . how different can they be and why would I want to pay more/different price? The thing is, there is a lot more to consider. I’m not going to say price shouldn’t be or is not a concern. Of course it is. We all have an idea of what something is worth to us. I know it is important for us to have a budget and stay within that budget. But, it is not the only thing to consider. An artist’s work can vary by experience, demand, education, and the expense of running a business. Just like any other small-business there are fees, taxes, software, equipment, insurance, and a host of other expenses to consider. Every business owner’s cost of doing business is different, so no two will be exactly alike.
It is also important to know what you get for that price. What does the session fee include? Are prints or digital images included with the session fee? If not, how much are they and how can I purchase them? Will there be additional images available for purchase? If so, how much? Are any discounts available for the more you purchase? Are there any collections/packages available? Is there an all-inclusive price? How will images/prints be delivered? So many things to consider. A low session fee price, may end up being way more expensive than another photographer, if you don’t consider other expenses.
Style. Every photographer’s style is different. . .and this would actually be my number one thing when considering a photographer. Even if they use the same equipment, software, actions, presets, and even locations as another photographer down the road. . .the images they produce can look substantially different from each other. It is so important to visit their website, facebook page, instagram feed, so you can get an idea if their style is right for you. Do you like how their images look? The color/tone? The feeling you get when you see their images? Happy, sad, emotional, etc. . . Style can evolve and change over time. . .so viewing their most recent work would probably be best.
Personality. For me, I want to work with someone fun to be around. I want someone who makes me feel comfortable. Who makes it easy to work with them. Is flexible, but has rules and tells me the rules. I want to know what to expect and I want my experience to be fun! It is important for you to know how you would like for your experience to go! I really want to feel comfortable from the minute I first contact them to our last contact when the session is over and all images/prints are delivered. A lot of times, you can get a sense of their personality through their website and social media.
Something else that may be important to note, is the type of photography they specialize in. I’ve been guilty of assuming that any photographer can produce any type of work. At the time, I didn’t actually quite know what I was asking for, but I was a little disappointed in the efforts. The photographer’s work was very consistent with what their website showed. . .and they did a great job. . .I was just looking for something different. So make sure your vision lines up with who you hire. If you want a fine art look, then make sure they are showing that on their website. If you are having a big, fancy, schmancy wedding. . .make sure the photographer knows how to operate in such a situation. Not all photographers are suited to all situations. I know I have had a hard time saying no. I love photography and I love people and I want to do it all.
I really hope this helps you find your perfect photographer. The questions that are important to ask and the things to consider before you book your session.
-MB