You’ve decided it’s time for a photo session – graduation, new family picture, Christmas card time -it has arrived! Now to decide who you’re going to work with to get you those gorgeous images. Just like any other vendor, picking a photographer for any event should be a thought filled process. Here’s three tips to help you pick out the best photographer for your special memories!

1 – Find a photographer you like. Okay, this seems like a “duh” moment but you wouldn’t believe how many people choose a photographer because they’re cheap, not because they LOVE the photographer’s work. If you don’t like the photographer’s work, why would you want them to capture your special moments? Depending on the occasion, these photos only happen once in a lifetime. Make sure you LOVE the person who’s work you’re viewing. Sometimes, their specialty or focus comes in to play here as well – you may love someone but they primarily do weddings and you want a portrait of you and your dog. It’s still worth asking them about a session if you truly love their work!

2- The products/experience you want. Many photographers offer an experience when you book with them – hair, make up, even sometimes clothing styling or a client wardrobe. If this is something you want, make sure the photographer offers them or be willing to compromise if you love their work anyway (see #1!). Those experiences can make for really beautiful sessions – especially for seniors! Additionally, if you know you want a canvas print or wall hangings out of this session, it’s usually worth it to find a photographer who offers these products so you can make sure you get beautiful pictures AND high quality prints like you’re looking for.

3- Experience and Specialty. Like I mentioned in tip #1, some photographers have really focused and honed their skills in a particular area of photography. This usually means that’s what 95% of their work is comprised of. This doesn’t mean however, that it’s all they do. It’s always better to ask someone if they’d be happy to shoot a session of you and your sweet cat, Fluffy before thinking they won’t. And if they say no, there’s a good chance they will be able to refer you to someone who specializes in the kind of shoot you’re looking for. This is particularly important (in my opinion) when you’re looking for a wedding, newborn or birth photographer.

Those are my top three tips for picking your photographer! What is most important to you when hiring a photographer for your special moments? I’d love to hear about it!

XOXO,

Kristina

Images thanks to Marie Hamilton Photography!