choosing a photographer

     No matter what the occasion is, choosing a photographer to take your photos can quickly become overwhelming. Chances are you need someone to capture photographs that not only document something memorable happening in your life, but produces something you can look back at in future years and still be proud of. Everyday photography continues to grow and change, causing many people to pursue it both as a fun hobby or even professionally. For this reason, internet research may seem pointless due to the oversaturation of pages and websites throughout Google, however it is not pointless if you know exactly what to look for!

Style

     One of the first things to consider when researching photographers is their personal style. What is it that grabs your attention? The posing, colors, unique backdrops, and overall mood created in the photos are all part of what may make or break a photograph that you find admirable. Something that may be rather obvious is to pay attention to the content matter of the photographer's portfolio. Often, many photographers specialize in specific genres such as weddings, boudoir, or family portraits. Other times, photographers are open to shooting all types of photographs and it is reflected in their work. If you find yourself particularly drawn to one particular person's photo style but they don't have many pieces that depict the portrait style you are searching for, it never hurts to contact them and inquire about your specific project. You'd be surprised what they may say.

Communication & Comfort

     Once you have narrowed down your search or found a specific photographer that sparks your interest, it's time to get in contact. One of the biggest parts of the photography experience is communication with your photographer. No one likes a ghost, or a short, beat-around-the-bush conversation. There are many questions to ask yourself while communicating with a photographer. Are they kind and inviting? Are they accommodating? There's nothing worse than leaving a conversation feeling completely clueless and unheard.I'm not saying you need to become instant bff's with the photographer, but you should end the conversation feeling confident and looking forward to what's next.

Word of Mouth

     Obviously no one likes to judge a book by it's cover, however it can always be a good idea to ask other people about their own experiences with photographers and other businesses and services. It also never hurts to read over reviews on various platforms including Google, Facebook, or WeddingWire. Do they have consistent complaints? Are all or majority of their clients happy with their experience? Do clients return to this photographer? One of the most powerful tools a photographer and client can benefit from are referrals. Not only do referrals convey to the photographer that the client enjoyed their experience, but it also gives new clients a piece of mind. 

Value

     When most people consider value, their mind automatically goes to the phrase "bang for your buck," or what can you get for the least amount of dollars? While quality over quantity is the key phrase for many, there are many other factors to consider when analyzing a photographer's value. What are their prices like compared to other photographers in the area? Why are the prices among these photographers so different? Looking beyond the physical items included in their pricing, (session, digitals, albums etc.) what else is the photographer offering in terms of the experience? What do they have to offer that others don't? A photographer's goal should be to give you the best possible experience and to make you want to come back. 
     

     Choosing a photographer shouldn't be an impossible task if you know what you are looking for and finding someone to create and capture memories is just a few steps away.

     

​     Be sure to check out my other posts for choosing a wedding photographer, portrait photographer, and boudoir photographer!