10 Things to Look for in a Photographer
You might be asking… Is it that serious?
Are you shelling out your hard earned cash?
Well, then this is for you!
Getting a photographer isn’t just about taking some photos. You want someone who can capture the beauty and essence of you or your family! Someone who can capture special moments and not just some boring, dull images without any substance.
This guide will help you consider some important things when deciding which photographer is right for you.
1. Exceptional Portfolio:
What to look for: Check out the whole portfolio. Is it cohesive with a consistent look and feel? Does it capture people’s genuine emotions? Does it tell a story? Note the feeling you get when you’re scrolling through a photographer’s portfolio. Did it make you feel happy?
Why it matters: You want someone who produces exceptional work over and over again. Their portfolio will showcase the types of images they capture and then you can gauge whether it matches your vision.
2. Technical Proficiency:
What to look for: If they’re using professional equipment, it will show through in their work. Is the lighting even? Are the images sharp and clear? Are the colours pleasing to the eye? Do they have a professional portrait studio in Calgary?
Why it matters: A skilled photographer must be able to handle different lighting conditions like if you’re out in the sun. They must be able to consistently take photos that are in focus, especially if there are multiple people in the photo. And, a set of images should look like they were edited by the same person with the correct colours.
3. Personalized Approach:
What to look for: Take note of how much information the photographer gathers from you so they understand what exactly you’re looking for and what your specific needs are.
Why it matters: Understanding your vision and needs will help the photographer tailor their approach just for you. A photographer who invests in understanding you and your needs will make all the difference in the world. After all, photography is a very personal experience.
4. Effective Communication:
What to look for: Clear and open communication to help you understand all the ins and outs of their services. Are they responding to your inquiries in a timely manner? Are they taking the time to address any issues or concerns that you might have?
Why it matters: Effective communication will make you feel comfortable and confident throughout the entire process. This is the foundation for any business or service. Last thing you want is any doubt about the whole process.
5. Professionalism:
What to look for: A photographer who conducts themselves professionally through their communication, organization, timeliness, and entire process from booking to the delivered photos. Are they making you feel like you’re being take care of?
Why it matters: It ensures a positive experience. In order for the whole process to run smoothly, the photographer should leave you with a good feeling at the end of it all. From the booking process, to showing up on time, and receiving your photos within the expected timeframe.
6. Passion for the Craft:
What to look for: Genuine enthusiasm for what they do. Is there a sense of excitement in their voice when they talk? Are they throwing out great ideas?
Why it matters: Passion fuels creativity and a commitment to excellence. A photographer who is genuinely passionate about their job is more likely to go the extra mile to capture extraordinary moments.
7. Reviews and Testimonials:
What to look for: Positive reviews and testimonials from previous clients, highlighting their satisfaction with both the process and the final results. Check out their Google reviews. What’s the general feedback about the photographer?
Why it matters: If people are leaving positive reviews for the photographer, it’s generally a good indication because it leaves people feeling good about their experience. On the other hand, if people didn’t have a good experience, they’ll probably write about that too so it’s always best to check for reviews.
8. Flexibility and Adaptability:
What to look for: Are they adaptable to different environments with varying light conditions? Can they work with large families with kids and pets? What would they do if it rained on the day of your session?
Why it matters: A photographer should be able to adapt to different environments and make it work. If any unexpected challenges arise like rambunctious kids or bad weather, they must be able to quickly adapt and think on their feet about what to do. Maybe quickly run to their portrait studio. Ultimately, a flexible and adaptable photographer will ensure that unexpected moments are still captured beautifully and your experience is stress-free.
9. Affordability and Transparency:
What to look for: Clear pricing, transparency about additional costs and services. It should be very simple and easy to understand. If it’s too complicated and confusing, it’s probably a red flag.
Why it matters: Being able to understand the total cost upfront will help make an informed decision. You don’t want any surprises when it comes time to pay. A transparent and affordable pricing will help manage your budget, build trust, and avoid any confusion.
10. Innovative and Creative Thinking:
What to look for: A photographer who brings innovative ideas and creative thinking to the table, ensuring that your photos stand out. Does their portfolio have a good variety of poses and ideas, or do they all just look the same?
Why it matters: Creativity is what makes your photos uniquely yours. An innovative and creative photographer can turn an ordinary situation into extraordinary moments. It also makes it a lot more fun and exciting. A photographer who encourages funny poses or doing silly things is really trying to capture raw and genuine emotions for you to look back on to enjoy and laugh at.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right photographer is a pivotal step in turning your moments into timeless memories. By looking for these qualities, you ensure not only beautiful photographs but also a positive and personalized experience. Finding your ideal photographer in Calgary is a journey worth taking. So, set your expectations high, trust your instincts, and let the perfect photographer tell your story through the magic of their lens.
Next up we’ll talk about a few ways that you can compare different photography services!