Questions to Ask Photographers Before Booking

If you're looking for a photographer, I have good news for you! There's usually plenty to choose from where ever you live. The Type of photographer you book is important.

The three types of photographers are:

Beginners- Usually the cheapest option. They're usually trying to build up a portfolio and take photos of just about anything. Their prices range anywhere from free to cheap. This is a good opportunity for someone to get photos done at a price they can afford while giving someone experience. The drawback is, often times they are learning about their cameras and trying to establish their editing styles. This is NOT a bad thing. However, if you are hiring them for an event you cannot recreate (birthday party, wedding, etc.) isn't really recommended unless they're being hired as a second shooter (someone who assists another photographer). Beginners are good for small family/singular portraits, pet portraits, and other shoots that are typically more relaxed.

Intermediate- These are the middle men. They aren't cheap but not expensive either. They're in the middle and are typically affordable. By now they should have developed a style and have a portfolio/website. They should know how to use their camera, shoot RAW (if they choose too) and knows how to adequately use photo editing software. Intermediates are great for smash cake sessions, birthday parties, and more complex photos.

Professional- Prices are more than Beginners/Intermediate. These photographers have higher end photography equipment and expert knowledge on posing, camera settings, angles, and photo editing software. These are the photographers you hire for weddings, corporate events, and just about everything else. Their portfolios are strong and diverse. They usually are the secret superheroes of the day. From fixing a bride's bustle, to editing out a coffee stain on your favorite tie.

Do you have insurance?

This question should be a first. America is sue happy and it is irresponsible to hire anyone who does not have insurance on their business. That goes for photographers, contractors, anyone. If you have a business and your reading this without insurance, please get some. Protect yourself and your family!

What kind of Camera do you have?

This makes for a great icebreaker when getting to know your photographer. Most if not all photographers love talking about their gear. To some people they don't have a preference on what kind of camera their photographer uses. Others do care because it effects their photo's quality. DSLRs and Mirrorless cameras are the preferred by most photographers.

Ask for edit examples.

Editing is 75% of what photographers do. By asking editing examples you can gage the style they have and avoid the possibility of being shocked when you get review your photo link.

What is your turn-around time?

Every photographer has different turn around times stated in their contract. It seems on average, typically it can take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months (could be longer depending on type of event/season) to get your photos back. During this time your photos get edited and uploaded into a gallery for you to download. This is important to ask because you may need them by a certain time for whatever reason. Timelines should be communicated with your photographer directly.

Can I see your portfolio?

Most photographers are more than happy to show off their portfolios. It's a great way to view all the different aspects of the photographer. their strengths and weaknesses. Their style. Their flexibility. Their artistic visions. Never book a photographer without viewing their portfolio first.

How long do you store photos for?

Now for starters, you should download your photos immediately once you get them. That way you have them and don't have to worry about loosing them. Shoot download them multiple times on different flash drives if you have to. Photographers only back up your photos for a limited time before deleting them. It should be stated in your contract, but it never hurts to ask anyways.

There may be more questions you think of to ask your photographer before your shoot. Don't be afraid to ask them! Your photographer is there to guide you, to make sure your photos come out just the way you like them.

Remember to Smile!