6 Questions You Should Be Asking Your Photographer

Choosing a professional photographer can be stressful and confusing. I bet anyone who is reading this, can think of at least 4-5 photographers that they know PERSONALLY, and then another 2-3 they have heard of. That is A LOT of choices. I always want my clients who choose me, to feel 100% comfortable in that choice. Not only for the images they are going to get, but for the help before, during and after a session.

Here are some top questions and things to consider when chatting with photographers. Don't make the mistake of just picking the first one that comes along. You will waste, time, money and tears.

1.)How long have you been a photographer? The longer a photographer has been in business, the more likely it is that it’s not just a hobby for them. Running a business takes a lot of effort and commmitment, so being in business longer usually means that photographer is there for the long haul for you. Not to say someone just starting out won't get there, but there is a difference in being a hobbyist who is doing photography, and someone who has been in business for 15+ years.

2.)Which types of photography do you specialize in? It’s uncommon for a photographer to specialize in several different types of photography as they often only specialize in one or sometimes two genres. For example, a photographer who specializes in newborn photography might not be the best candidate to shoot wedding photos unless they have the experience in doing so. If you are looking at their website, and do not see any wedding photos, or samples of full weddings, then more than likely they do not specialize in weddings. You wouldn't go to a heart surgeon if you needed a hip replacement would you?

3.) Do you have many repeat clients? This is a great litmus test of not only the quality of a photographer’s work but of their customer service too. Repeat clients mean that photographer did a great job where they bring their other children, or family members back for more. Also, what are those clients saying about the photographer? Many times reviews online can be easily effected. I have seen good businesses get horrible reviews b/c of one angry person who enlists the internet to send attacks, and I have seen not great businesses get rave reviews over and over again(sometimes these are paid!) So my point is, take some of those google reviews, Facebook reviews and everything else you see online with a grain of salt. If you know someone who goes back again and again, talk to them, see why.

What is your policy on rescheduling a session? An experienced photographer will definitely have a policy in place when it comes to a customer cancelling or rescheduling a photography session. A photographer with policies indicates that they have experience with different types of customers and situations and have created policies accordingly.

Have you had any experience with (name your specific concern)? If you have any specific concerns regarding your photo session such as the photographer’s ability to work with a special needs child for example, find out if they have ever handled that type of situation before. Do not dismiss a photographer and their abilities based on their answers to your concerns. If given adequate notice, an experienced photographer should be able to deal with any situation you present them. This is the hallmark of a true pro.

Silent Question: Use your gut to judge their personality and rapport. A photographer’s main job is to capture emotions and moments. If your photographer doesn’t mesh well with you on the phone or in person, chances are you and your family will not mesh well with them at your session and this will show in your photos. Make sure you are building a relationship with them. After all, if you enjoy working with them, you will go back, your kids will come to know them more and they become a part of the family. It will be less stressful each time b/c it's like going to see an old friend.

I hope these questions helped you out when you are looking to book your next photographer. Remember, you aren't just taking pics to throw on your phone or Facebook. You are creating memories and legacies for your family for years to come.

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