Choosing a photographer

Choosing a photographer for your portrait session, wedding or other event can be intimidating. There are so many photographers to choose from, so finding the one for you is challenging.

On behalf of Lori Black Photography, here are some tips on choosing the best photographer for you.

1. Select a photographer who specializes in your area. I recently was asked about photographing a newborn. While I hate to turn down business, newborns are not my specialty to I turned down the job. There is an art to photographing newborns. The photographer needs to know how to pose the infant, how to wrap the baby in those cute little wraps, and have the right type of props. That does not fit my skills.
2. The first place to start is Google. Google for photographers in your location and see who comes up. Realize, though, that there are many more photographers who don’t show up on Google. You might consider asking family or friends. If you know someone who has recently had a photo shoot, ask them how it went and possibly get a referral.
3. Once you identify some photographers you like, look at their websites and check out their photos. Photographers have different styles and you need to find one that has the style you prefer. Photographers have different ways of lighting their work, of editing their work, of posing, and more. Find a photographer whose images you resonate with.
4. Check their prices. The prices of area photographers vary widely. However, I suggest that price not be your determining factor. Many photographers will do a job for a very cheap price just to get the business. They may or may not be good.
5. Choose someone you like. You want to work with a person who you feel comfortable with and get along with. If you aren’t, your attitude may reflect in your photos.
6. Who is available. One practical factor is whether the photographer is available. If you have your heart set on a particular photographer but that photographer isn’t available when you need him or her, the bottom line is you will need to make another selection. To ensure your photographer is available, book early.

I hope these tips provide valuable guidance on choosing a photographer.