Shades of Gray - Choosing the Right Photographer For You

For those of you who've travelled down that bumpy road of hiring a photographer for your wedding, you'll know that I'm right (hopefully not in hindsight) when I say, there are so many shades of gray when looking for the right photographer.

Whether you're looking for a photographer for your wedding, a new baby, senior portraits, or boudoir, things are not always black and white. There are things you'll want to think about above and beyond price. Here are a few things you'll want to consider in order to find a photographer that's a good fit for you.

1. What's their specialty?

Does the photographer specialize in something? If you're looking for a photographer for your newborn session, you don't really want to hire someone who specializes in business headshots. Likewise, a newborn photographer is probably not your best choice for a boudoir session. When a photographer specializes in a specific type of photography, you are almost always guaranteed a great session because they love the work they're doing (not to mention they've got a lot of experience in their niche).

2. What's their style?

Take a look at their gallery. Do the images appeal to you? Are you wanting an indoor studio session or do you want your session to be outdoors? Do you like classically posed pictures or more candid lifestyle type photos? Do you prefer bright colorful action shots or light and airy romantic images? When you look at a photographer's portfolio, you should feel something. If you don't you should probably keep searching.

3. Are they a people person? (or a dog person?) ;O)

Would you enjoy hanging out with this person? Not necessarily for years, but can you see yourself enjoying their company? Your photographer needs to be someone that you like. Your session should be fun and if your photographer's personality clashes with yours the outcome will be less than desirable. Personality is a necessity, especially when it comes to a wedding photographer. You'll be with them for hours during one of the most important events of your life, so you'll want someone that you'd be happy to put on your invite list. If you want some lifestyle images of your kids to hang in the play room, you're going to be disappointed if the photographer is not someone who enjoys being around rambunctious little ones.

4. What services do they provide?

Does the photographer listen to your story? Do they offer advice? Some photographers meet you at a location, take the pictures, upload them to an on-line gallery and from there you choose and order prints to be delivered through the mail. Others are very hands on from beginning to end. They will learn about you and your vision before the session, find the best location, provide hair and makeup, help with the ordering process, and even hang artwork in your home. You'll want to determine what level of service you'd be most comfortable with.

5. What products do they offer?

Are you wanting art for your walls, an album that tells your story, or are you looking for digital files? Not all photographers offer all products. Some only offer digital files and you'll need to find a place to print on your own. Other photographers offer prints for you home, but not albums; or prints and albums, but not digital files. You'll want to make sure that the photographer actually offers what you are most interested in.

6.  Do they fit your budget?

When it comes to photography, the old saying, "you get what you pay for" is actually something to pay attention to.  Depending on the level of service and the products that you want, can you afford the photographer? If not, then is a session with them something that you think is worth saving up for?

For each person, there are things that they're willing to pay for and things they're not. Some people are willing to pay more for something that someone else wouldn't pay the price of a burger for. This is why when looking for a photographer you need to do a little research. Make sure you are a good fit. When you find the right one you'll be so happy you put in the work.

---

For this weeks blog circle, see what other pet photographers have to say about shades of gray starting with Pawparazzi Pet and Animal Photography presented by Shae Pepper Photography and continue around the circle.