Contacting Your Top 3 Photographers
Have you narrowed down your search to the top 3 photographers yet?
If you haven’t, be sure to go read: “A Guide to Comparing Photography Services”.
In this blog, we’re going to talk about the next most important step, and that is to reach out to your top 3 photographers.
Not sure what questions to ask?
We’ll cover those here, not to worry!
Let’s make sure you have all the information you need to make the best decision for you for a memorable photography experience.
1. Clarify Your Needs and Preferences
Make sure you know what type of photoshoot you want.
Consider the style that you prefer.
Do you prefer photos that are more candid? Or posed?
Think about the location of your photoshoot. You might like an urban backdrop or the beautiful nature!
Maybe there’s a time of day that would work best for you. Be sure to keep that in mind.
The more details you provide upfront, the better the photographer will understand your specific needs to deliver you the best service.
2. Research and Review Their Portfolios
So, at this stage, you should already be pretty familiar with the portfolios of the photographers you selected and you chose them because you resonate with their style.
Now, let’s dive a bit deeper into their portfolios.
Spend a bit more time exploring their most recent projects while paying very close attention to the details of their photos, like the quality of their images, their ability to capture emotions and moments, and their overall creative approach to photography.
Is their work consistent?
If you’re interested in photography for family, ensure that they are showcasing a lot of family photos.
Take note of any specific photos that especially resonate with you or give you inspiration for your own photoshoot.
3. Gather Information and Prepare Your Questions
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Now that you have a clear picture of what you want and after doing a thorough review of some portfolios, it’s time to gather your questions.
Here’s a list of details you should gather:
Availability: Ask the photographer if they have availability during the timeframe you are looking to do a photoshoot.
Pricing & Packages: Understand the photographer’s pricing if it’s publicly available and if not, be sure to ask how much they charge, whether there are any additional fees, and how to pay.
Customization Options: If you want props, a specific theme, or a special location, be sure to ask if they can accommodate.
Backup Plans: Be sure to ask what happens in the case of unexpected changes or emergencies that may impact the photoshoot.
Policy: Understand the photographer’s policies regarding cancellations, rescheduling, deposits, and final deliverables.
4. Craft Your Initial Message
The reason why we want to send a message first is because you may not get an immediate response if you try to call them. Also, it allows you to write down important information that the photographer will need to refer back to.
A great way to start is by introducing yourself, and expressing your interest in their work. Communicate your photography needs, like the type of session, preferred dates, location, and any other specific requests you have in mind.
Tell them about your vision for the photoshoot, if they’re available, and whether they can accommodate your requirements.
Another great reason why it’s best to send an email is so that you can attach any relevant inspiration images and any images that you don’t like to help the photographer understand what you like and don’t like.
5. Evaluate Their Responses
Photo by Ruan Richard Rodrigues on Unsplash
Once you’ve sent out all your messages to each of the photographers, sit back and relax.
You’ve gotten past the most time consuming part of this whole process.
Now, when photographers respond, take note of their promptness, professionalism, and genuine interest in understanding your vision and meeting your needs.
Are they clear in their communication?
Did they address all the questions or concerns you had?
A photographer who communicates effectively throughout the entire process is usually committed to providing an excellent service right from the get go and are likely to uphold those standards throughout the whole process.
6. Schedule Consultations or Meetings
If it makes you feel more comfortable and confident in your decision making process, you can always ask for an in-person meeting or consultation. Not only does this give you an opportunity to further discuss your vision and finalize details, but you also get to see the photographer in person and build rapport with them. It will also allow you to assess their personality, communication style, and you can gauge your comfort level in working with them.
There may be some things you discuss that you missed in your email message or phone calls. So this is your opportunity to nail down any final questions and concerns.
7. Trust Your Instincts and Make Your Decision
Photo by William Bayreuther on Unsplash
It’s decision time!
After you’ve had a chance to review the responses from the photographers, and potential in-person meetings, trust yourself and decide who you want to go with.
How did you feel about the responses you got?
If you had an in-person meeting, did you feel good about it?
Which photographer do you think is capable of meeting all your needs and requirements?
Be sure to select the one that did the best to understand your needs, make you feel comfortable, communicated properly, and the one that aligned the most with your expectations.
Conclusion
Contacting your top three photographers and booking your perfect photoshoot is an exciting and rewarding experience. By following these steps, asking the right questions, and considering important factors, you'll be well-equipped to communicate effectively, make informed decisions, and create memorable moments that tell your unique story.
Trust in the expertise and creativity of your chosen photographer.