7 Questions To Ask Your Photographer Before You Book With Them
One thing I’ve noticed as a professional photographer is some clients ask me little to no questions at all before they book with me and then others have to know everything before they commit. Personally, I prefer it when potential clients ask me questions. It helps us get to know each other more and helps me give them what they want. I want my clients to know that it’s okay to ask as many questions as they want and that no question is too silly. Not sure what you should ask? Here are some basic questions you may want to ask before you book with your photographer.
#1 - Can I see more of your work?
A photographer’s website is their portfolio, but we don’t post everything we have. The best of a photographer’s work should be on their website, but if you feel like you haven’t seen enough to make a decision, then it’s not unreasonable to ask them to show you more of their work. Ask for photos pertaining to the type of photoshoot you want.
#2 - How many images will I receive?
This is an important question because the answer will vary between different photographers. Some photographers will offer 10-15 images for a portrait session and others will offer more. It all depends on the photographer. My advice is to make sure you’re getting at least 20-30 images for a portrait session. You’re paying good money for your images so you want to make sure you’re getting your money’s worth and aren’t being ripped off.
#3 - How soon will I receive my photos?
After your photoshoot is over, you may want to know how long your images will take. If you’re doing a last minute photoshoot and need your images asap, you’ll want peace of mind that you’re going to receive those images in time. If you’re not in a rush to receive them it isn’t too important, but it’s nice to know and you have a right to ask. When you order something online, they give you an estimated delivery date before you purchase your item. There’s no problem with you wanting to know when you’ll receive your photos.
#4 - Can include other people in my photoshoot?
When inquiring about a photoshoot you should tell your photographer who you are, the type of photoshoot you’re interested in, any visions you have for the shoot, and how many people will take part of the shoot. It’s important to tell your photographer if you plan on including family members or friends in your session at the time of inquiring. Your photographer is going to quote you based off of the information you’ve given them. I’ve had clients book a 1 hour session with me before and at the last minute they’ve brought family members along to join in their shoot. At that point price is subject to change and you may be charged extra. Family portrait sessions take longer than single portrait sessions.
#5 - Do you have any visions or ideas for my photoshoot?
When looking over a photographer’s portfolio you may see photos you love and decide that that particular style is exactly what you want. To ensure you’re getting what you want, it’s a good idea to discuss editing style, location ideas, any visions you have, and also send over any examples of photos that you really like (Even if it isn’t the photographer’s own work). Photographers appreciate open discussions about your visions for the photoshoot. We want to make sure you get what you want and love our work.
#6 - Am I allowed to do an outfit change mid-shoot?
Your photographer shouldn’t have an issue with you having at least one outfit change during your shoot. It all depends on how much time you’ve booked them. Either way, it’s good to ask just in case. If you’re doing an outdoor shoot, you’ll want to choose somewhere with a bathroom or somewhere private where you can change mid-shoot.
#7 - Where will my photoshoot take place?
If you’re booking an on location photoshoot but can’t actually think of a location, ask your photographer. We know lots of places (Or we should). We also know which places will work best for the style of photos you want. Personally what I do is email over a list of potential locations and let my clients decide. I note which times are best for that location to make sure we have the best lighting and I give my opinions on which locations I think they’ll prefer.
Of course, there are many other questions you could ask your photographer before or after you book with them. The main thing is to make sure you get what you want from your experience with them and are happy with the work they provide. Having as much information as possible on your upcoming shoot can help you feel more at ease leading up to it and it actually helps us photographers feel more confident about the photoshoot too.