1. How quick is your turnaround time on editing and delivering photos?
Most photographers will average a 4-6 week turnaround for a regular session. Weddings average about 12 weeks for editing and an additional 12 weeks for album orders. If you have a specific deadline be sure to ask the photographer if they can meet that deadline before booking. Most photographers can meet your deadline, but it may not be included in the basic price.
2. How much does a session cost and what is included?
How many locations? How much time? Are digital photos and copyright releases included? Be sure to compare apples to apples and not apples to oranges. Think about what is most important to you and what you are looking for. Do you need a variety of photos? Do you need prints or digital options?
3. How many photos are typically included?
A regular session averages 20-30 photos released to the client. Some photographers will include more, but they may charge more. Keep in mind that almost all photographers take more photos than what clients will ever see. Part of the editing process allows you to skip through all the eyes closed and photo bombs. Just ask your photographer what to expect. If you don't get what you want from one, try another one until you find what you are looking for.
4. What are some photo products that you offer?
Look for anything from albums, canvasses, frames, photo cards, etc. If you have something in mind, be sure to ask before booking. Be sure to ask to see some samples to get the best idea for what will work for you.
5. OMG - I have a huge zit on my nose! Can you take care of that?
This might be one question you don't think about until the day of or day after. As much as photographers are trying to get you in the perfect shot, sometimes they miss something. Whether its a zit, unwanted pedestrian in the background, or eyes closed, be sure to ask what is included and what is not before you book.
6. Can I bring my dog? car? unicorn... ?
Photos are about capturing personality and emotion. Most photographers will encourage you to bring something that expresses your personality and hobbies. It's always a good idea to run it by the photographer to ensure they have no restrictions.
7. What equipment do you use?
Quality of camera lenses and bodies are a huge limiting factor in image quality. It takes both a great photographer and great equipment to take professional photos. You may get some good photos from a photographer, but without the proper equipment, you may be limited to print size or untrue colors. If you feel uninformed, just ask the photographer. You can always google the specifics later.
8. What is the ordering process?
Every photographer is different. Some offer face to face consultation and recommendations for prints. Others offer everything online. Still others, hand off your proofs and you are on your own. Each one has their different strengths, but if you are looking for help in ordering or want to be independent, talk with your photographer and see if they can work with you.
9. What makes you different from other photographers?
This question should unlock some key information about a photographers style, business practice, or unique selling points. If you like traditional shots, be sure to find someone that mentions that. If you want more journalistic, look for that. Photographers have their own style, so look for one that seems to be what you want.
10. What should I wear to my session?
Be yourself! Don't be afraid to ask for the photographer's input on this. I typically recommend dark or bright colors and something that is comfortable to you. This doesn't mean your pajamas or sweatpants. Wear something that you would wear another time - not just for photos.
To sum things up - don't underestimate the power of communication. Talk with the potential photographer and ask all the questions you need to before you book. If there is something really important to you and it is not listed somewhere general for the photographer, get the terms in writing. Clear communication will help both you and them. Photographers want you to be happy and return for business. Most unmet expectations stem from that of miscommunication.
What questions would you add?
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