so you're ready to book your photographer...
... whether you're planning your wedding, looking for updated family photos, welcoming a little one, or experiencing any other exciting milestone in your life, photography is an investment. To make sure you move forward with the right photographer, it's always important to make sure you ask the right questions. This month's blog post contains a couple of questions you can ask potential photographers for ANY type of session so you can make the best decision. Just know that this does not include every possible question, but it's my version of an important list of things you should consider asking and why.
First thing's first, logistics...
What are your package and pricing options?
Of course, one of the most important things to inquire about is the financial investment you will need to make. Photography has a huge price range, especially because it is dependent on a photographer's experience, background, product, and so much more. It is always appropriate to make this one of your first questions, especially because it can help you easily narrow down your list of photographers. Keep in mind that you should also ask what is included within that package. This can help you understand what you get out of your investment.
Can you share a full gallery?
When people ask me for recommendations for other photographers, I always say that it's a red flag if someone is not willing to show you a full gallery (unless the photographer is starting out and hasn't quite built a portfolio). Photographers should be willing to show you their work - it gives you a tangible way to imagine what you may get out of your session or wedding. However, as the client, you have to keep in mind that no one session or wedding is the same. Lighting, weather, location, outfits, and endless other circumstances can make a huge impact on the end result. Viewing a sample gallery of work can give you context into what kinds of shots your photographer may capture, how he/she handles different lighting situations, and give you perspective on editing style.
What is your typical turnaround time?
Turnaround time is super important. Again, every photographer has a unique approach to their business. Some photographers are part time while some are full time. Some offer more than just photography within their business. So many aspects can influence turnaround time, therefore it's always great to ask your photographer what to expect when it comes to getting your images delivered. This could certainly influence your decision depending on how quickly you need your photos.
quick tip - expectations
If you have any predetermined expectations for what you will get out of your photographer and the results, consider making a list of what those are. This can help you see what the main priority is on your end: is it turnaround time? How the images look? Price? Thinking through some of these things can also help lead you to ask the questions that you truly want answers to.
Then the session...
How would you describe your editing style?
Any photographer should be able to give context on what their editing style is like. Post process is much more work than people think, and it's also a place where we as photographers can exercise our creativity. Understanding how a photographer edits, whether that's minimally, lots of touch ups and alterations, or just certain color adjustments, it can be good to understand that prior to booking. This is another reason you may want to ask to see a full gallery - consistency is key in editing too!
How do you approach a session?
Again, this always varies amongst photographers. Some photographers like to pose their clients, some prefer prompts, others prefer letting their clients take control. Depending on how you feel in front of the camera, this can be a huge influence on your decision. Make sure that your photographer has an approach to the session that lines up with both your personalities and the kinds of photos you want.
What do you recommend I wear?
Most of the time, this goes hand in hand with the previous two questions. Of course, this may not apply to weddings, but for other sessions, this can really affect the end results. What you wear in certain locations can help make the final images turn out much more cohesive. Additionally, depending on the location, certain shoes/outfits may not be appropriate in order to get to the best spots. Consider asking your photographer this question - if they can give a clear answer, or even an actual guide, this likely means they truly understand how this can affect the final images which is a fantastic sign.
what you're REALLY looking forward to: delivery
What do you do to protect your files?
At the end of the day, there is a lot of technology that goes into photography and quite frankly, a lot equipment that we have to depend on. Make sure you ask your photographer what their process is for keeping images protected in the event that some of that equipment fails. This can include whether or not they shoot on dual card slots or how to store the images after the session/wedding. Consider asking this for piece of mind!
What kinds of retouching and adjustments do you make?
Some photographers prefer completely authentic and true-to-life edits, which can mean they won't edit blemishes or any other aspects of your appearance. Others may soften skin, whiten teeth, remove blemishes, etc. It's important to ask about this ahead of time, or at least mention to a potential photographer what you prefer here. Otherwise, the photographer will definitely make judgment calls on their end.
How are the final images chosen?
There are actually some photographers out there that will meet in person with their clients to run through the gallery, therefore the client has a say in which are the "final" images. These days, I would say the majority of photographers complete the culling process on their own. I would definitely ask ahead of time what this looks like for the photographer you are inquiring with. It allows you to understand your level of control within this process, and may also indicate how many images you will have once delivered.
In what format will I receive the images?
Many photographers will provide digital galleries and include rights to print and share the images. Others will actually have a process for ordering those files, prints, or other items. Definitely ask ahead of time how the images are delivered and in what format. Many people want the luxury of printing on their own, so you want to make sure you know what your options are prior to committing.
quick tip - contracts
Consider asking photographers for a sample of their contract. Most of the time, this could answer a lot of these questions and others you may not have thought of. This will also give context on how certain aspects of the session or wedding are protected, going over all things legal.
Most photographers understand that making a photography investment can be a big decision, and usually that means we will never turn away your questions. I always feel that it's best to be prepared!
My hope is that in providing some example questions along with ways to recognize what is a priority to you will allow you to be confident in making your decision. You truly have to find the best fit, and to do that, it's inevitable that there has to be some ongoing Q&A.
You are welcome to reach out to me whether you are a potential client or you're looking for advice on how to find a photographer that's a best fit for you. I'm always willing to help.
Thank you again for your support, and especially if you've made it this far.
♡ Kylie
