So you’re looking to schedule a photo shoot with your photographer? Excellent! Whether you’re trying to create some awesome headshots, want to get a wedding covered, want to capture bat mitzvahs, bar mitzvahs, birthdays, or want to memorialize a special gathering between family members and friends, take some time to ask your photographer questions ahead of time. It will help your hired pro better understand the feel of the engagement you’re looking for while also creating some dialogue that will give you a better understanding and appreciation regarding the work involved. Let’s look at nine questions to consider before every engagement.
- Can We Get a Quote?
Don’t be nervous about this. It’s a business transaction, and the photographer knows they’re providing a service and products for you. That doesn’t mean the interaction needs to be uncomfortable or unfriendly, and most of the time, the photographer will give you some idea of the cost upfront anyway. There can be extra costs you haven’t thought of and pieces of the service you might not want that could lower your total bill.
- What outfit(s) should I wear?
Most photographers are excited to go over things like your wardrobe with you, depending on the types of shoots. Discuss it together before the shoot begins and save a lot of hassle on both ends in the long run.
- Can we do multiple locations?
If you have more than one location in mind, discuss it ahead of time. It may change the total price, and the photographer may have additional areas that you hadn’t thought about to make your experience extra special!
- How do specific dates and times affect pricing?
Dates and times, and pricing can wildly vary from photographer to photographer. For example, if you want to get some family Christmas cards this year, it will be easier and cheaper to get them staged and completed long before Christmas. The holiday rush can add more hassle and cost. Try to plan with your photographer to make sure you lock in a deal that works for you!
- What is the cancellation policy?
Things happen. The possibilities of why you want to cancel a photoshoot are endless. It’s essential to understand what cancellation policies look like so you don’t get hit with unpleasant surprises.
- Do you require a deposit?
The best photographers tend to be in high demand, and their schedules can get booked months in advance. It’s not uncommon for photographers to require a deposit before specific events.
- How long does it take to get photos?
Whatever package or product you want will require a bit of work before getting them in your hands. You should understand how long it will take to help you with scheduling.
- Can I see samples?
Do not be afraid to see a portfolio. You’re about to spend your hard-earned money on somebody taking pictures of you, your pets, your family… whatever. It’s good to know what you should be expecting!
- Do you have recommendations for this particular arrangement?
Your photographer does this far more often than you do. Try to understand that they probably have some great ideas you’ve never even considered. Their past experiences will help mold and dictate a very pleasurable one for you and yours!
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Stimulating conversation with your photographer will ensure you get a result that you’re proud of, and the photographer wants that. Most photographers rely on word of mouth for business growth, so it’s just as important to them that you have a good experience as it is for you!