How to choose your Photographer?
Choosing the right photographer can at times be a mine field, there is the right style, technical capability, creativity and consistency, budget and the right products.
I’ve placed here in order what I think everyone looking for a photographer needs to consider;
Technical Capability - A good photographer knows their equipment, understands and knows the technical aspects of photography which there is more than most people know, a photographer can have the best gear, but no idea when it comes to technical capabilities with their equipment. Key things to look for;
Are the photos sharp or are they blurry?
Are they well - lit or do they look muddy?
Do your photos look grainy or clean?
These are some of the tell tale signs that your photographer is still learning their craft or has poor technique.
Style - Every photographer has a style, a posing, lighting, and editing style, make sure that you like the photographer’s style
Posing - some photographers do posed, or relaxed or a combination of both in their sessions, a good photographer will know how to handle any location, lighting and will know how to compose their shots, limiting distractions, and pose their clients in the most flattering way.
Lighting - lighting makes photography, the loose translation of ‘photography’ is painting with light. A good photographer, will know and understand what lighting works best, lighting can change depending on the client. Some lighting will bring out features that aren’t always flattering, so your photographer needs to understand light. Some only shoot outdoors or work with natural light, that’s okay but from my experience that most likely means they don’t know how to work with artificial lighting.
Editing Style - This is a big part of what sets photographers apart. some photographers edit true to life colours, some will place an interpretation on colours or place filters etc on their work. This is an area that photographers differ the most from each other.
Creativity and Consistency -Creativity is important, but so is consistency. A good photographer should be able to consistency deliver a gallery that is on par with the work you see on their websites and social media presence.
Products - Not all photographers have the knowledge and experience to be able to turn their ‘digital’ files into professional prints. So, so many photographers only provide digital files, and I have seen so many times that when the client has them printed they aren’t the same, either not the same colour, or part of the photo gets chopped off. A good photographer will have products to purchase, and will be able to show you printed products of their work.
Budget - A know for a lot of people this is a big one, but its not really! Most professional photographers will offer you a payment plan, accept different methods of payment including BNPL options, Having professional photos taken is an investment that you will never regret. Photos are part of your legacy, your newborn photos will be even more special as your child grows, your maternity photos will capture a time that we forget, family photos that will be cherished for generations to come.
Choosing the right photographer for you includes all the points I’ve mentioned above along with, are they appropriately qualified, experienced, have the insurances and clearances to work with you and your family, but most importantly do you connect with them, do you feel comfortable with them?
Hope this has been helpful on your journey to find the right photographer for you!
Jackie