How to choose a photographer

You have heard horror stories. A bride hires a photographer for her special day or a mom wants to get photos for a Christmas card, but when it comes time for the gallery to arrive there aren’t any photos and messages are left unread. In worst-case scenarios some photographers even block clients. The majority of these scenarios are stem from hobbyist or beginner photographers who aren’t paying taxes, using contracts or insured. Of course, there always is an outlier where well-established photographers treat clients in the same manors.

What purpose does a contract serve?

Contracts protect you as a client and your photographer. By outlining expectations, creative freedom, as well as turnaround time, and many other things. Without a contract holding a client or photographer accountable can be a bit more tricky. Even the verbiage of the contract can affect outcomes if you do end up in any sort of legal battle. The purpose of this article is hoping to inform you as a client to prevent you from ever needing legal assistance.

What are the red flags when booking a photographer?

Inconsistent quality among images.
The photographer doesn’t use any sort of contract.
Contact is far between and vague.
This one is obvious but has negative reviews. Every business will have an unhappy customer, but one who has many isn’t a good sign. As the saying goes old habits die hard.
Unprofessional interactions on social media or in response to negative reviews.
No rain dates this one may be controversial, but weather is unpredictable. A professional photographer will let you know prior what to expect if you get rained, snowed, or flooded out of your originally booked session date.
They offer too much for the price point. If it sounds too good to be true it most likely is.
Newborn photographers should ALWAYS have some sort of safety training and carry business insurance.
They utilize photos of you or your children for advertising without proper permission.

The amount of photos or what you’ll receive for the price isn’t clearly outlined before booking.

What can you as a client do to find the right photographer?

When looking for a photographer always start by looking at their portfolio. You want to make sure their style lines up with your vision. If you want light and airy, but you book with a photographer whose portfolio is filled with dark and moody edits you can’t expect them to completely shift their style. You also want to look at their portfolio to make sure there is consistency with the quality of photos. If you’re trying to book a wedding photographer ask to see a full gallery even two if you are still feeling weary.

Once you’ve found a style you like start looking into their pricing, and look if it aligns with your budget. There’s no shame in a smaller budget. The great thing about a saturated market for clients is no matter your budget you should be able to find a photographer within your range. After having my first son we scrapped change together every time we got photos done. We had to be realistic with our expectations when it came to quality. If we wanted the best we saved what we could every month until we could hire an experienced high-quality photographer.

Does this mean I shouldn’t use a beginner or new photographer?

This blog does not mean do not support or use new photographers or those just starting. Every professional photographer wouldn’t have ever become the professional they are today without those first clients who gave them a chance. When you see a beginner offering sessions here are some signs you should hire them.

The price point matches the quality of their work. They may even be offering what is generally referred to as (TFP) trade for picture. Where a photographer offers images in exchange for your permission to use them for portfolio.
Communication is clear and consistent.
They utilize a contract.

Supporting small businesses like photographers is a great way to put money back into your local community