5 Tips to Choose Your Photographer
While you are browsing online trying to find your ideal photographer, I want to share some tips based on my photographer’s and client’s experience with you.
1. Price. Some people have a certain budget in mind when it comes to the Photography Services. Others have no idea how much it should cost. An hourly rate of the photography services varies from $100 to $500 and more. The price depends on the photographer’s location, business strategy, experience, and other factors. An average Wedding Packaging in the US will cost you around $1,500-2,000. A good Portrait or a Family Photoshoot can be priced at $350-$450. A Commercial Photography is typically starts from $500 depending on a project.
Should the price drive your decision on the final choice? – Not necessarily. Here are some other factors you might want to consider.
2. Your dream pictures. How do they look like? Do they have certain colors or a vibe? Most photographers use filters/presets nowadays. These pictures usually have some tint – brownish, off-white, greenish, etc. Some photographers like saturated colors and photoshopped magazine-like pictures. Others, on the contrast, prefer natural colors or even vintage black and white style. Make sure the pictures in photographer’s portfolio match your style and expectations. That’s important!
3. Style. Think about what kind of pictures you like more: traditional/posing or candid/documentary. By traditional I mean properly posed shots and by documentary more natural, emotional and telling the story shots. I chose “documentary” kind of a photographer for my wedding, and did not have a videographer. So, now when I go through my pictures, I feel every emotion and every moment of that day. On the other hand – I do not have a lot of “looking at the camera”, “ideal” shots. You can check what shots prevail in your photographer’s portfolio or ask directly what their style is.
4. Personality. I think that is the key. You need to feel your photographer and trust him/her. Check if you have something in common by reading their social media or a blog. Check what life values, hobbies and interests they have. There are moments when a photographer can play different roles: a wedding coordinator, a therapist, a parent, or a friend. I will give you an example. My wedding photographer had to shut the door when everyone including my mom was anxious to get in time for the ceremony although we did have time. My photographer was patient and calm in the mid of the chaos. She closed the door, turned on a French melody, and told me we do have our time. This was the moment I burst into tears, as I realized I was a Bride, it was MY morning and I could relax and take my photos. Everything could wait.
Me that morning
5. Values. Ask yourself what is important for you. Are you punctual and responsive person? – Pay attention to how responsive your photographer is and if she/he respects your time. Do you value privacy, and do not want your pictures to be public? Than check with your photographer if it is possible to make an exception for you and do not use his/her copyright for your specific case, and how much it will cost. Not everyone is ready for this compromise, and you do not want to get a surprise later on.
If you read this until the end and curious what king of a photographer I am, check my Gallery, and do not hesitate to ask questions by submitting the form or contacting me directly Here.
