When hiring a professional photographer here are a few thoughts to help you know what to expect:
1) Read and look through their website. The “About” page, the “Investment” page, the “What to Expect” page before contacting them, so that you have a idea of how they work, their pricing and their policies.
Do they work out of a studio? Are they a natural light photographer? For weddings, do they do on camera or off camera flash for ceremonies (where allowed) and receptions?
If you are hiring them for a editorial shoot expect there to be a fee if they have to search and rent a location for your shoot.
2) Referrals!!!! Referrals!!!! Referrals!!!! 75% of my clients have been referred to me by word of mouth. You want to know that others have enjoyed their experience with the artist you are hiring.
3) Expect to sign a agreement. Any photographer running a real business should have you sign a agreement along with pay a commission fee for their time and talent. The agreement will outline everything from the date and time of the session, who is being photographed, who can attend the session (I keep mine to only those who are being photographed), a model release, ordering timeline and guidelines to what would happen in a emergency.
4) Expect your online proofs (basic color correction) to take about 2 weeks to be ready for viewing during the busy season (April-November). Full edits with the ordering of prints, canvas’ and other wall art can take upwards of another 2 weeks. If you are ordering a heirloom album, this can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks to arrive. If a photographer is taking longer than this, it is time to start asking questions.
For weddings, expect your images to be back between 6 to 8 weeks after your event. For your album design, this can take upwards of 2 weeks and with revisions, cover choice and then ordering, this can take upwards of 6 weeks.
Ask to see print and album samples in person, so that you can see the quality of what you are investing in for both weddings and portrait sessions.
5) When booking a session and or wedding, make sure to give the photographer enough time to properly take care of your needs and meet your expectations. If you need things rushed do expect to pay a fee.
6) Trust them to help you pick a location and outfits that coordinate with the look you are going for. I always asked questions about personal style, home decor and the feeling they want their images to convey. This helps everyone involved love the final project.
If you want a specific location, there may be a travel fee or a permit fee involved depending on the location.
7) Expect to pay tax on your order. I am based out of PA and there is 6%. If your photographer lives in a state where there is sales tax expect to pay it. If the artist you hire is running a real business, they will have a business license stating they must collect sales tax unless they are in one of the few states that do not.
I hope this helps you have a better understanding of “What To Expect When Hiring a Photographer”!!!
