How to Hire a Photographer

Life's special moments deserve to be preserved with beautiful photos. And, hiring the right photographer to capture these moments is extremely important. So how can you make sure you find the perfect photographer to share your day with? We’ve put together some tips on how to hire a photographer to help you find the perfect professional for your event.

From weddings and birthdays to graduations and anniversaries, when you hire a professional photographer you can capture the beauty and importance of all occasions, while creating memories that will last a lifetime. 

If you’re looking for a good photographer to take family photos or to capture a photo shoot, you’ll want to make sure you hire someone who handles that type of photographic style.

Here are some tips on how to hire a photographer:

Photo: Marmolejos/shutterstock.com

Learn about the photographer's style 

When planning, you should first decide on the photographic style you’ll want for your event. Do you prefer an artistic style with a natural look? Or would you rather more posed, formal, and traditional photos? 

The best way to learn more about their style is to check out the photographer's references from past events. These examples will give you some helpful insight into the photographer's personality and style.

Photo: Evgenyrychko/shutterstock.com

Get to know their personality

You’ll want to determine whether or not your personality meshes with the photographer/s and whether or not you feel completely comfortable with the photographer/s. Always feel comfortable to ask questions and make requests. 

Prior to hiring a photographer look at photos from an entire wedding (or event), not just a few samples. Most people can shoot a few key shots but can they shoot an entire event well from start to finish? Checkout their full shot list.

Photo: Jacob Lund/shutterstock.com

Ask many, many questions 

There are several questions you should ask any photographer you are considering. Here are a few of the most important questions you should ask:

• Will they be photographing the event themselves or will it be an associate?
• How many weddings or events like yours did they shoot in the last year?
• Is this their full time profession or a side job?
• Do they have backup equipment?
• Are they a member of any professional associations, such as the PPA? (Professional Photographers of America)
• How many years have they been a professional photographer? (Meaning this is their primary source of income or are they a business owner)
• What are the turnaround times for delivery of images post production?

Photo: Jacob Lund/shutterstock.com

Discuss the fine print 

We also advise asking a photographer if they have  a proper business license and if they carry professional liability insurance. Some `freelance' photographers may not be licensed or insured properly. Be sure to ask about copyrights and usage of the images created. Ask any questions you may have about payment schedules, cancellations, rescheduling, and refunds of retainers.

The photographer should ask questions too! The photographer should ask questions about your vision for the images, the event timeline, and basic details like starting time and location. Once you have found a photographer that you are seriously interested in, we suggest that you ask yourself three questions before you proceed to booking:

• Price: Does the photographer fit into your budget?
• Value: Is the photographer's package a good value?
• Intangibles: Is the photographer well-presented, is he punctual, does he have good references, is he/she personable?

If you are comfortable with your answers to these questions, and you have done all your research, then you should feel confident in your choice of photographer.

How to Hire a Photographer:

• On The Bash, you can search through a list of top-rated, bookable photographers in your local area. While browsing, be sure to review vendor profiles and check out their photos and videos, and read their verified reviews to get a better understanding of their style and expertise.
• When preparing a request for one of our photographers, keep in mind that the more details you can provide, the more accurate the price quote you'll receive. If you receive a price quote that seems like it needs clarification, don't hesitate to reach out to the vendor directly to find out their true cost to hire.
• Make sure you have discussed what supplies the photographer may need from you. You'll want to know what they can provide, and what you'll need to have on hand at your event.
• Communicate your expectations and special requests to any prospective photographers—whether it’s specific, shots, a timeframe, numbers of guests etc.
• If you're planning an outdoor event, be sure to discuss where the vendor will be situated.

Find a Photographer

Once you’ve hired a photographer, use this event entertainment checklist to ensure your booking runs smoothly come your event.