Regardless of whether you’re looking for a photographer for a wedding, family portraits, corporate headshots, real estate, or any other reason, there are some questions you must ask before signing on the dotted line. Read on for ten questions to ask so you’ll be sure to find the perfect photographer for you.

1. What’s your philosophy?

Every photographer has a philosophy when it comes to how they approach their craft. To ensure you’re a good fit, this is always a solid first question to ask.

2. How will our interactions be during the photoshoot?

If you’re someone who has your own ideas of poses, etc., then you may not want to work with a photographer who inserts their vision into each photo session. If, on the other hand, you’re open to collaboration and being gently led through the process, then you’ll want someone who can do just that.

3. What are your fees?

Any professional photographer will be straight up with you when it comes to money. It’s essential to ask this question first off to see if the photographer is within your budget. And if the answer you get seems too inexpensive to be true, remember the old adage: You get what you pay for.

4. How long have you been in operation?

If the experience doesn’t match the dollar amount you’re quoted, then it may be time to look for another photographer.

5. Can I see your portfolio?

Big red flag if all the photographs are of the same people or are very similar—for example, all the families are posed similarly for their portraits. Your photographer needs to have the diversity and experience to get the job done.

6. What makes you different from other professional photographers?

If the person you’re meeting with stutters and stammers while answering this question, throw up another red flag. Professional, high-quality photographers know their niche inside-out and can articulate it to potential customers.

7. What info do you need from me before the photoshoot?

If the answer is a big fat “nothing,” then move on to the next person on your list. Whether you’re interviewing for a corporate headshot or a wedding, a quality, professional photographer will have at least a few questions for you before picking up the camera and going to town. How else will they get to know you and be able to deliver authentic photos?

8. Will you be touching up my photos? And will these be the proofs I see, or will they be unedited images?

Professional photographers know how to edit their images—that’s part of what makes them great. And as for the second part of this question, you want to know what you’re looking at. Some photographers provide unedited proofs to their clients and then edit only those photographs the client wants, while others edit the entire batch and provide these as proofs. Big difference.

9. Will you be my actual photographer? Or will someone else step in and take the photos?

Don’t always assume that the photographer you meet with will be the one snapping your pics. Sometimes, they’ll have assistant photographers who will take care of certain shoots. Make sure you speak with the person who will be holding the camera on the big day.

10. Can you please provide me with a list of references?

There should be no hesitation on the photographer’s part after being asked this question. Follow up with these references and get the inside scoop on how that photographer works. It will help you determine if you’re a good fit for each other.

As you can see, there are quite a few considerations that must be made before jumping into a relationship with a photographer. Which questions would you add to the list?

If you’re ready to talk photography, give Lisa Staff Photography a call at 843-422-0197 or contact us here.