Intro


As I’m sure most of you know, mediocre photographers can be found in every nook and cranny of the country, begging you to pay them to snap photos that would have probably looked better if Great Uncle Jim had just pulled out his iPhone.


Finding a GREAT photographer can be a bit tricky. Lucky for you though, there are a few things

to look for, and I’m going to tell you what they are.


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Professionalism


First off, they should simply act professionally.


  • They should have clear information on their website.
  • They should respond within a reasonable time to your messages and inquiries.
  • They should agree to doing a video call or in-person meeting to answer your questions.
  • They should have a well rounded, consistent looking portfolio.
  • They should treat you with respect and not try to force sales.


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Reviews


Taking a peek at their Google or Yelp reviews is another way to get a better idea of who you’re working with. These reviews are hard to fake, and nearly impossible to delete.


If they have generally positive reviews and everyone seems to be agreeing on what it was that made their experiences great, then chances are you’ll have the same experience.

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Portfolio


Ask them if you can see a full gallery from a recent session. Anyone can take a hundred mediocre photos and then post only the best 5.


A true professional will have consistently good photos through an entire session.


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Payment


Never send anyone a deposit before you’ve read and signed a contract that covers everyone’s butts.


I’ve heard waaaay too many stories of scammers who aren’t even photographers taking the money and then disappearing into the void never to be heard from again.


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Connection


Lastly, having a photographer who you easily connect with is huge. Having photos taken is already kind of awkward and hard, you don’t need to have someone behind the camera who is making it harder and awkwarder.


May the odds be ever in your favour,

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