How to choose your Photographer, especially where intense human interaction would be required, irrespective whether it would be for individual portraits, wedding or corporate photography:
~ List your photo preferences or expectations, as seen previously, in view of discussing those creations with your potentially short listed photographers.
~ Where possible, ask for references, either via the photographer or a previous clients experience or function you attended. This will assist you in your decision, especially considering the financial and emotional investment in such a choice.
~ Browse portfolios of various photographers and get a feel for the type of pictures that would suit your personality and style.
~ Bearing in mind the styles that you like, shortlist a couple of photographers whose "photographic style & technique" you like the most.
~ Remember, these photographer portfolios are by default their best work on display and you should be able to view an entire photo shoot from the short listed photographers. This way you will be able to distinguish between more experienced and less experienced photographers.
~ Approach each photographer with your enquiry, specifying your planned function date and location or venue. With these details the photographer should be able to present a comprehensive photo package proposal.
~ Depending on price and availability, narrow the choice down to several (one to three) photographers & schedule an appointment to meet with each photographer individually.
~ Assess the selected photographers portfolios and proposal which should consist of: -
Photographic package options.
Services and Products included.
Services and Products on request which would be beneficial to your day’s proceedings arrangements.
Additional products or equipment which could be used to enhance your function day.
Commercial and legality
requirements and specifications with regards to “copy right”, “cancellations” and “liabilities”.
Alternative arrangements should the photographer not be able to attend your function due to unforeseen circumstances.
~ Assess whether you are comfortable with the photographer and/or team as they will be interacting with you and your guests for much of your function day.
~ Make your decision and secure your choice of photographer for your function date.
~ Your photographer should request a second meeting closer to the function date with you in view of: -
Confirming a time scale to your wedding day's proceedings.
Discussing finer detail to your wedding day's proceedings.
Discussing any specific requests and preferences previously identified.
~ In the event of your photographer not being familiar with your choice of venue, please insist on meeting with the photographer at the venue in order to assess the photographers approach and creativeness when reviewing the venue’s photographic potential.
~ In the event of your photographer being a preferred service provider at your planned venue, it could still be beneficial to meet the photographer at the venue to ensure the photographer fully understands your entire preceding and expectations. You would be able to establish during your interviews with the photographer whether this meeting at the venue would be necessary.
