7 Questions You Should Be Asking Your Photographer
Happy Friday Peeps! Today on the blog we have some sneak peeks of the "K" family from Tennessee. During their Fall 30A vacation they opted for a sunset family photo session at Santa Rosa Beach. October is my favorite time of year here on the Emerald Coast. The weather is perfect for evening photo sessions on the beach. If you are searching for a photographer for ANY portrait needs, be sure to check out these 7 general questions you should be asking to help you find the right fit for your needs.
How long have you been a photographer?
The longer a photographer has been in business, the more likely it is that it’s not just a hobby for them.
I have been photographing for over 20 years. I have both my Masters Degree and Craftsman Degree from Professional Photographers of America. I received my Certified Professional Photographer certification in 2015 while serving on the board of directors for Professional Photographers of Michigan.
>> for a 60 second teaser video of all images from the K family photo session, scroll to the end of post <<
Which types of photography do you specialize in?
It’s uncommon for a photographer to specialize in several different types of photography as they often only specialize in one or sometimes two genres. For example, a photographer who specializes in newborn photography might not be the best candidate to shoot wedding photos unless they have the experience in doing so.
When I began my photography career almost 25 years ago, I focused on newborn, family + wedding photography. I was also a new mother myself who was recently married, these were all areas I was connected at in my personal life. As my children grew into teens and young adults, I discovered my love of Senior Photography. While my passion is with high school senior portraits, I still love capturing family portraits and weddings. ps- my secret side hustle is Pet Photography, but mainly cuz the dogs just want me to snuggle them!
Do you have many repeat clients?
This is a great test of not only the quality of a photographer’s work but of their customer service too.
with over 20 years in the industry I have been blessed enough to photograph clients year after year, after year, after year! I have photographed a client during the senior year, then done their college grad photos, their engagement photos, their wedding and even their newborn and family sessions as their kids are now 2 and 4. I have also been photographing clients when they were in their mommas belly and are now starting their freshman year of high school. I truly create connections with my families over the years. We love being part of their milestones and that's one of the reasons why we travel so much for the studio. We will always make the time to travel back to our roots as I love being a part of these family memories.
What is your policy on rescheduling a session?
An experienced photographer will definitely have a policy in place when it comes to a customer cancelling or rescheduling a photography session. A photographer with policies indicates that they have experience with different types of customers and situations and have created policies accordingly.
Not only do we have a policy on rescheduling and rain days, we have a full contract covering all these details and even more. We are a full service Photography Studio. My goal is to have stunning home decor in your home for years to come. If you don't look good, we don't look good. We provide not only stunning images, but also high quality, luxury home decor.
OUR CALENDAR IS FILLING FAST WITH THE END OF YEAR HOLIDAYS APPROACHING. FOR INFO ON FAMILY PORTRAIT SESSIONS AND CURRENT AVAILABILITY, PLEASE SEND US A TEXT AT (850) 460-4437 OR FILL OUT THE CONTACT US FORM AND WE CIRLE BACK WITH YOU WITHIN 24 HOURS.
Have you had any experience with (name your specific concern)?
If you have any specific concerns regarding your photo session such as the photographer’s ability to work with a special needs child for example, find out if they have ever handled that type of situation before. If given adequate notice, an experienced photographer should be able to deal with any situation you present them. This is the hallmark of a true pro.
Do you have the required permits and/or business license to photograph professionally?
Be sure to check your state (or the state where photos will be taken) business requirements and permitting requirements, especially for select counties. Unfortunately, it happens all to often, especially in "tourist" locations, where 'faux' photographers pop up overnight. Be sure to verify their required credentials (and if they say none are required, that's a red flag).
As a photographer in 30A, Walton County Florida REQUIRES a photographer to have not only a business license, but also insurance and a PERMIT to take professional photographs on the beaches here.
Silent Question: Use your gut to judge their personality and rapport.
A photographer’s main job is to capture emotions and moments. If your photographer doesn’t mesh well with you on the phone or feel connected, chances are you and your family will not mesh well with them at your session and this will show in your photos. Be sure to check out this article for more tips: Is your Photographer Legit?
Do you know of someone looking for a photographer? Be Sure to share these general tips!