6 Things to Consider when Choosing Your Perfect Photographer

1.Know what you like, or don’t like

The very first step to choosing your perfect photographer is deciding on what you want. Do you want posed, studio newborn photos with perfectly even light, do you want highly posed and constructed wedding photos, are you a free spirit and would like some candid photos out in nature? Do you want your baby’s newborn photos on a beach or in a forest or are you feeling overwhelmed and want your photographer to come to your home? Are you a fan of natural light or artificial light? Photographers specialise in a wide range of areas from newborns to weddings, from food to interiors, from studio to natural light. Not all photographers have experience in every field or situation and it’s the experience that really counts.

Once you’ve decided on the look, feel and location of your photos you’ll have a better idea of what to search for within you budget.

2.Indie vs Mainstream: understand the options

When it comes to selecting your photographer it pays to be aware that there are two main business models. There are independent photographers and photography companies. Companies employ photographers with a wide range of experience who all aim to work in the same style. If you chose to go with a company ask the name of the photographer who will be doing your photos. Take the time to research that particular photographer and their portfolio. If their portfolio doesn’t capture what you’re after ask for another photographer from the company. Never assume that the photos on the company’s website were taken by the photographer who will turn up on the day. With independent photographers you know exactly who will turn up on your big day or be working with your precious newborn. The online reviews will be about that particular person and their work. If you love the style and portfolio of an independent photographer you’re more likely to love your photos.

3.Be in love with their style don’t try to change it

Now, make sure you’re really in love with your chosen photographer’s style. It takes a long time to develop and refine a style so a photographer is unlikely to be able to successfully change theirs on request. If a photographer’s style isn’t exactly what you want there will be another photographer put there who is the perfect fit for you.

4.A consistent portfolio

Speaking of style, aim to choose a photographer with an established personal style which runs through their entire portfolio. Not only won’t you be surprised by the end result, but it takes years to hone a style making the photographer more likely to have the experience to deal with whatever is thrown at them on the day.

5. What are you paying for?

The last factor to consider is how the photographer’s packages are structured. Do you want the high res digital files so that you can have them printed at a later date? Or are you happy to purchase prints only? Are there any hidden fees? Are you paying for the photo shoot and then purchasing a package on top of that? Or is it an all-in-one package. It’s good to know that the traditional studio pricing model involves advertising a set price (usually quite low) for the photo shoot and then charging per print, never releasing the digital files. This is a hangover from the days of film when negatives were kept on file. Make sure that you understand exactly how the packages work to avoid unexpected additional fees.

6. Your friend/uncle/cousin has a camera . . .

Having a good camera doesn’t make them a professional photographer. Be grateful that they’re giving you their time and be happy with whatever you get.

Where do I fit in?

Where do I fit on this wide spectrum? I shoot the pivotal moments of people’s lives, from when they become engaged or get married through to the birth of their babies and their family as it grows. My style is a fusion of portrait and landscape photography, it’s candid and natural. I’ve included examples below to explain exactly what I mean. I depend on the light from the sun to create a unique session for each client and only ever pull out my flash on the dance floor. Photos where babies are posed don’t sit well with me. Where I photograph them on their own in a basket or bowl or on a blanket they’re always relaxed and photographed where they settle. I do in-home newborn shoots, where parents prefer, but I don’t have a studio nor do I do studio-style photos as it simply doesn’t fit with my ethos or creative style. A style which I defined through years of soul searching and experience.

I hope this offers some clarity into the confusing world of choosing your perfect photographer.