Questions to Ask a Photographer

Here are 12 questions to ask a photographer if you are looking to hire a family photographer that you will love year-after-year!

Is your photographer a good fit for your family?

Booking a photoshoot can be intimidating if you do not have a regular photographer. Finding the right one takes a little digging. As much as you should appreciate the artistic style of a specific photographer’s work, what happens during the session is even more important.

Choosing a photographer that gels with you family makes all the difference in the final product! I have compiled a list of questions that you can ask your potential family photographer before booking to determine if you would like to hire them.

1. How long have you been a photographer?

Knowing how much experience a photographer has isn’t the end all be all, but it is something to take into consideration. The reason that this might be important is it CAN indicate whether or not your photographer has quality gear, can handle any type of lighting situation, or even poor attitudes.

2. Do you specialize in a specific type of photography?

With social media it is easy to get a good idea of what style a photographer has even before asking them. If you still aren’t sure inquire whether or not your photographer does more lifestyle, traditional posed, modern, emotive, etc. Talk to your potential photographer about what style they would describe themselves as, and check out past work to get the best idea of what you ar going to get.

If you’re looking for a certain kind of photography, make sure to choose a photographer whose style matches what you’re seeking. Some photographers do more posed photos, and some go for a more candid look, while others do both depending on the client. If you want something specific for your images, don’t be afraid to ask. If you do your research, you will notice a HUGE difference between traditional posed family photos vs modern, lifestyle family photography. Both are great-but know what you’re getting!

3. What are your prices?

Of course knowing what a session will cost is a conversation that should be had before you book. Photographers can have wildly different prices depending on experience, gear, and how much time they typically spend behind the scenes per each session. For each shoot I usually spend 10+ hours per session, between emails, editing, marketing, and of course shooting! For most photographers there are also some unforeseen expenses like insurance, taxes, backup gear, editing software, website hosting, etc.

Everyone likes a good deal, but lower prices could indicate corners being cut. The conversation is not just to determine what you can afford, but whether or not you are dealing with a professional.

4. Where can I view your work?

Knowing all of the locations where you can view a photographer’s work will give you the best idea of what to expect. Ask if they have a website and a social media presence. These places are a great way to find out more information.

5. How will I obtain the portraits?

Photographers differ on how clients receive the photos. Ask whether or not the images are included in the session price. If the digital files are not included there will be additional fees. Will they be delivered via thumbdrive? online gallery? print? I personally like to provide a private online viewing gallery, then follow up my full sessions with a thumbdrive in the mail with print release.

6. When should I expect to receive photos back?

It is a good idea to know roughly when to expect your photos back….especially around Christmas card season! This may vary depending on how busy the photographer currently is, however they should be able to provide a general time frame.

7. Do you have a lot of repeat clients?

This can be indicative of if the photographer is pleasant during your session time. If you are dealing with someone that captures multiple milestones for a family, it’s for a reason! If a photographer has the same clients coming back again and again, that’s a good sign that their work is strong and consistent—and that they’re easy to work with!

8. How long will you keep my images?

This is a question that many people forget to ask. Photographers cannot keep your images forever, so knowing how long you will have an external “back up” is important information.

10. What are your terms and conditions?

Talk to your photographer about their policies for cancellation or postponement because you never know what circumstances might arise that could force you to cancel your session. Terms also include usage rights, and it is good to know ahead of time how you can legally use these images.

11. Can you give me posing guidance?

Along with helping you to feel comfortable, your family portrait photographer should be prepared to direct you into different poses. A professional knows how to gently guide and adjust you to create images that capture your authentic personality—photos you will want to share with everyone you love.

family of four photo session in red bluff

12. Do you have any tips for what to wear?

Most photographers should be able to provide some guidance on what to wear. I personally steer my clients away from logos on clothing that will date them. I’ll encourage them to dress comfortably in either jewel or Earth tones of contrasting patterns, textures, layers, and solids.

Bonus Tip!

When hiring a photographer use your gut to determine whether you think they will make for an enjoyable session. Capturing emotions are one of a photographer’s main jobs. If you don’t find yourself liking your photographer before your session, that might translate in the photos.