Not sure where to start when trying to pick a photographer for your next photo session? Here are five tips for choosing the right photographer for you.


1 - Know what style you're looking for


The most important thing you can do is know what kind of photography you're looking for. Every photographer is has their own unique style, and depending on what it is, your images can turn out completely different based on who you choose. If you don't know what style you like, spend some time researching on Instargram or Pinterest. Save your favorite images and pay attention to any similarities you notice. Use this to help you find the right photographer in your area that can give you the type of photos you're looking for.


Some things to consider when it comes to photography style:


  • Posing: Do the subjects look natural and relaxed, or awkward and uncomfortable? Are they always looking at the camera, or are there more candid moments being captured?


  • Lighting and colors: Are the pictures mostly creamy with lots of whites, full of bright colors, balanced and even, dark and moody, or black and white?


  • Editing: Do the pictures look sharp and crisp? Grainy and old fashioned? Overly edited with the skin super smooth? Do the colors seem too saturated or are the skintones tinted in an unnatural way?


  • Location: Is the background or location distracting and busy? What kind of places does the photographer shoot at? Can you see yourself taking photos in a similar location?


  • Consistency: This is the most important thing to consider when looking at a photographer's style. Are their images consistent across their portfolio, or does it change from shoot to shoot? Consistency means experience, and that means you can know what to expect when you hire that photographer.

2 - Keep your budget in mind


When looking for a photographer, make sure you know how much you're willing to pay for photos. Look for upfront pricing on a professional website, or contact the photographer and ask exactly what they charge for what products and services.


Make sure you're aware of exactly what you'll be receiving before booking a photo shoot. How long will the session be? Are there a guaranteed number of images you'll receive? Will they be edited? Will you receive full printing rights? Do you have a guaranteed date by which you'll receive your photos, and how will they be delivered?


The more transparent a photographer is, the more you can be sure you're making a wise investment. Keep in mind the level of professionalism when it comes to a website/portfolio, pricing and packages, method of contact, and if the photographer has you sign a contract before working together.


3 - Compare multiple options


Even if you're confident that you know which photographer you want to work with (for example, someone you already know), it doesn't hurt to compare a couple of options first! Look at the available photographers in your area and compare prices, styles, and client reviews. This can help you be more confident that you made the right decision when you do select a photographer.

4 - Look at reviews


When it comes to photography, client feedback is the most valuable thing you can look at after the photographer's work itself. Are people generally satisfied with their images from that photographer? Were their expectations met or exceeded? If a photographer was recommended to you by a friend, that's usually a great choice to go with; but checking other reviews as well doesn't hurt!


5 - Find someone friendly & reliable


Last but certainly not least, find a photographer that you can trust. Are they easy to contact and get in touch with? Do they respond quickly, and are they available at a time that works for you? Are they willing to answer all your questions in a clear and helpful way? Are they friendly?


Sometimes it's hard to know for sure if you will connect with someone you've never met, just based on their social media or website. But you should be able to know enough about someone from their online platforms to have a good idea if they are the right fit for you. Above all, go with your gut! The more comfortable you are with your photographer, the better your photos will turn out in the end.