Picking The Right Photographer For Your Event

Before you hire a photographer you want to spend time deciding what type of photos you want and what you want your photos to communicate. You can do this by creating a checklist so that you have a list of specific goals. What is the budget for your photographer? Do you want someone that specializes in black & white? Do you want a photographer that will focus on you or do you want a photographer that wants to document the event and every moment? Will they bring assistants so they can catch everything or do you want a soloist that only wants to capture what catches his eye? Once you decide this, you want to take referrals. Referrals are always the best advertisement. Talk with individuals that may have similar style, standards and ideals. There are a lot of talented photographers out there but most have a very unique style. Getting referrals from like individuals will help you narrow down the list.

The key to finding the right one is the ability to see eye to eye on their vision of your special day. Every photographer has a certain style and that is why it is important to invest the time in finding the photographer that works best with you.

You will want to start by viewing the potential photographer’s portfolio. Make sure you pay attention the details and ensure that the photographer has examples of the things you want to capture for your special event. You want to ask questions about the equipment they use or how they approach lighting. However, you don’t want to just stop at the photographer’s work. You will also want to know about the photographer’s personality. How well do they work with people? Are they personable, patient and focused? Do they communicate well and approach their work professionally? Are they punctual? You may do this by watching them in action and seeing how they work.

Once you have found the photographers you like you want to discuss pricing. While you already know the range of the photographer, you need to identify the price of the things you want. Will you get all of your images, will you only get an album or a designed package for that price? You don’t want to wait until the end and then have to extend your budget because you can’t get the photos you like for the price you paid. Now, pick a photographer but remember just as in any other relationship, communication is key. You have figured out that the photographer has the talent and can do the job. Now, you just have to make sure you are on the same page. Tell the photographer exactly what you want. Don’t leave it to chance. After all of this has been discussed, make sure you get it all in writing.

Last, relax and enjoy your special day. Once you have established clear and concise communication, let go. While you want to understand your photographer’s vision, you also have to rely on trust at some point. Once you have gathered the information, seen the photographer’s portfolio, obtained references, identified their style and communicated your desires, you have to let go and trust. If they have done everything to earn your trust then you have to believe that things will turn out okay. If you do the research and work up front, everything will turn out perfect!