You don't know of a good photographer, so you post on Facebook asking for recommendations. You go with one of those recommendations, have your session, and you're not happy with the results. Knowing how to choose the right photographer for you will have a huge impact on your experience. Even one of the best or most popular photographers might not make you happy if they aren't the right fit for your needs. Here are some things to consider when searching for yours.
1 - Look at their website.
This is the most important place to start. Look at every page, especially their portfolio. The work on their portfolio should be consistent, and it will show you what you're going to get (or should get) from your session with them.
2 - Find out where they like to shoot.
Are they a studio photographer? Do they shoot outdoors? Do they do in home sessions? Do they do events? Whatever type of session you're wanting, make sure they will accomodate those needs. If they are a studio photographer, or even an outdoor photographer, do they use a lot of props or are they more minimalist?
3 - Find out who they like to shoot.
Do they do newborns? Do they do families? Do they do seniors or athletes? Or are they focused on headshots or weddings? Will they do themes or composites? Not all photographers shoot all the things. Usually they specialize in one or a handful of types of sessions. Your first choice for your newborn session probably wouldn't be a sports photographer.
4 - See if their work is more posed or lifestyle.
If you want a more traditional look, you probably don't want to go with a photographer whose work shows mostly lifestyle/umposed images. Likewise, if you want more candid photos, you don't want to go with a photographer whose work is mostly posed and smiling at the camera.
5 - Look at their editing style.
The way a photographer shoots and edits will create photos anywhere from a very light and airy style to a dark and moody style. Some like grain in their images and some go for a very smooth and polished look. Photographers also use different colors and tones. What types of edits appeal to you? Make sure the photographer you choose edits in that way.
If you want to be happy with your experience, make sure you do your homework to choose the right photographer.
Asking for recommendations for a photographer is a great place to start. Believe me, we photogs love and need referrals! Your photographer wants you to be happy with your experience. So make sure when you ask for those recommendations that you do some research to decide which one is actually the best one for you.
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