SO, YOU'RE LOOKING FOR A PHOTOGRAPHER...
Finding the right photographer for your family pictures, headshots, personal branding pictures, or senior pictures can be a daunting task. With so many photography services available, it can be overwhelming to choose the best approach for you. Let us help you in your research and preparation with some tips on how to find a photographer who is most suitable for your needs.
FIRST, CHECK OUT THE PHOTOGRAPHER'S SOCIAL MEDIA OR WEBSITE AND CONSIDER A FEW THINGS:
CONSISTENCY IN QUALITY AND STYLE. Professional photographers typically invest in top tier equipment because they value clean and sharp images with the quality for printing in large format products like canvases or acrylic and metal wall prints and even billboards. The high resolution captured from professional equipment generally cannot be replicated by phone or point and shoot cameras. Blurry photos wouldn't be a problem except for when it's intentional then the background blur or bokeh is creamy and seamless unlike that in pictures taken with phone cameras.
VARIETY IN THEIR PORTFOLIO. Are there different types of people in their portfolio? Do their outfits and locations change? A photographer with more variety will usually have greater experience, flexibility, knowledge of lighting, composition, and posing, and problem-solving skills to adapt and obtain the same quality of images under different scenarios. They are more likely to know how to work with your personality, how to edit for your skin tone, and how to pose for your body shape so that your best features stand out in the best way.
INFO ABOUT THE EXPERIENCE. Do you want a traditional versus modern studio shoot or a casual versus editorial outdoor location shoot? Some photographers only shoot in studio or on location while other photographers offer both. Some photographers plan everything for you and offer luxe services including hair and makeup, fashion and wardrone guidance, and heirloom products. Other photographers are completely hands off and only meet you for the session. Knowing your style and preferences for what kind of experience you would like to have will help you find a photographer who matches your vision. This is one of the most important factor you need to decide on before you start searching for a photographer who can be the right fit for you.
WHO ARE THEY. Always check out their About page. What is their message? How can they help you? Why are they in this business? Does their vibe match with yours? Can you see yourself hanging out with them for several hours? It is crucial that you choose a photographer who you will feel comfortable and confident with during your photoshoot. And sometimes, that means you might want to watch their social media for a few weeks or give them a call and talk with them before booking.
OK! YOU’VE NARROWED YOUR SEARCH DOWN TO A FEW PHOTOGRAPHERS. NOW, SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION AND ASK SOME QUESTIONS.
HERE ARE FIVE THINGS TO ASK YOUR PROSPECTIVE PHOTOGRAPHER:
FULL SESSION GALLERY. Anyone can post their best photos in their highlights or on their website, but it’s important that the photographer you hire can truly display a full session of real clients having had amazing images that are cohesive with great lighting, focus, composition, and color across the board.
TIMELINE AND EXPECTATIONS. The prep work, session schedule, and turnaround time for your photos and products should be clear and easy to understand so you know exactly what to expect at every step. There should be no surprises about how to prep for your session and what you will be doing during the session.
EDITING PROCESS. See if you can check out before and after photos. Find out what editing and retouching services the photographer provide and if there is an additional charge for these services. Some photographers offer basic editing, while others offer more extensive retouching and post-production work. Make sure to discuss this with the photographer so that you have a clear understanding of what to expect in terms of the final products.
COLLECTIONS AND PRODUCTS. Different photographers offer different packages and products, such as digital files, prints, albums, or specialty products like magazines. Some photographers may have custom options like designing grad cards or marketing graphics for you. These details will help you determine how much you may want to stretch your budget and priortize your needs. More experienced photographers will usually have a more streamlined workflow that can accommodate rushed and unexpected needs more readily as well.
TESTIMONIALS OR REVIEWS. Don't be afraid to ask for references. Speaking to other entrepreneurs or high school seniors and their parents that have worked with the photographer can give you a good idea of their experience, professional standards, and quality of work
SEND US A MESSAGE IF YOU NEED MORE HELP!
If you are interested or have questions in the photography experience and services we offer at Belle Époque Photography, check out our FAQ and contact us to schedule a consultation.
CHEERS!