It isn’t every day that one hires a photographer. However, that does not mean that you shouldn’t be more keenly involved in the process of hiring the best photographer in Seattle? Given below are six of the most important questions that you must ask a professional photographer before hiring one.
- What are your style and specialization?
This question is a great way to begin your conversation with the photographer. Moreover, the answer to this question will determine whether you can even carry on with the expertise of the photographer. In case you are looking for a wedding photographer, but the available professional specializes in clicking portraits, there is a gap in the demand and supply, prompting you to move to another professional. Once you identify a match with a photographer, ask them about their style of photography. You can also ascertain their style by asking them for a sample of their previous photos. You can ask a related question here, where can we see a sample of your photos?
- How rich is your experience?
Sample photos bring us to our next question about experience and portfolio. In the current age, it is fairly easy to access a professional’s portfolio and view their previous work. Although the ease also brings with it the scare of fraud. Be mindful of that the samples they share are originally theirs alone.
- How much do you charge and what does the package entail?
One may argue that this can also be the opening question. However, it is quite pointless to discuss payment before discussing specialization. If you have spotted the best photographer in Seattle, ascertain if their services are within the realm of your budgetary reality. Know that many photographers may urge you to forgo this factor, asking you to look at it as an investment. However, that is not the best approach for you. If hiring their services may require you to max out your credit card, it is a clear indication of the photographer not being the right fit for you. If their service does match your budget, follow up by asking about their payment terms. These include a session fee to reserve a date, minimum purchase, and full/partial payment.
- Will you personally shoot?
This question is mainly applicable for wedding photographers. It is important that you get along well with the professionals you trust to capture your special day. If the person you have been speaking with to discuss the details is not going to photograph at the event, it is ideal that you meet your specific photographer before signing a contract. The same goes for additional shooters. If they are a one-man show, you will want to discuss the expected course of action in case emergency strikes.
- When can I expect to receive my order?
One is always uncontrollably eager to see the photographs after the event. Surely, one expects to receive the images at the earliest, but it is not always possible to deliver them at lightning speed, even for the best photographer in Seattle. With that in mind, discuss the exact timeline of your shoot and delivery of the final product. At this stage, also discuss the format that you would like to receive your photographs in. Yet another important question that you may ask at this stage is the copyright restriction on the images clicked. Know that photographs are copyrighted the moment they are created, and the creator, which is the photographer, not the subject being photographed, holds the copyright. Clarify the many copyright policies beforehand.
- How Should I Prepare for My Session
Lastly comes the exciting part of the actual day of the shoot and all your queries related to it. Take the time out to plan the session much in advance, for nothing ensure the best results than that. The best photographer in Seattle will be able to guide you in all the necessary requirements, such as make up, attire and presentation.
With six deep-dive questions, you will surely strike gold in your professional engagement with the best photographer in Seattle.