Qualifying the right photographer for you
I recently chatted with a speaker colleague about the challenges of finding the right photographer.
For many experts, it’s tough to differentiate the value one photographer brings over another.
Often, if the price is right and the website has some decent photos, that's enough to make a decision. However, this often leads to disappointment and wasted time and money, as they end up seeking another photographer to fix the previous one's mistakes.
So, how do you make a better choice from the start?
When evaluating a photographer's portfolio, use a focused, critical eye and look for these key criteria:
Photo Style:
Does the style resonate with you? Consider the composition, lighting, coloring, and post-processing. If something feels off, it’s best to move on to another option.
Genuine Emotion:
Do the subjects’ body language and facial expressions seem authentic? Or do they feel like forced smiles and artificial poses? Being genuine is essential in visual storytelling. You need to feel like you know who this person is based on the photo.
Variety:
Is there a range of photos? Look for a mix of wide, medium, and close shots, capturing different activities. Variety ensures you have multiple options for your marketing needs.
Testimonials and Experiences:
If you recognize any subjects in the photos, reach out to them. Ask about their experience with the photographer. How did they direct? How comfortable did they make the subject feel? Were they guided throughout the process? First-hand accounts are invaluable.
Consistency:
Is there a consistent style across different clients in terms of composition, lighting, and color treatment? Inconsistency can be a red flag indicating inexperience or sloppiness, both of which can undermine your confidence in their ability to deliver.
By critically evaluating these aspects, you’ll have a better chance of selecting a photographer who can overdeliver on their promise, providing you with a portfolio full of high-quality photos that you can leverage in your marketing strategy.
How have your recent photo sessions gone? Are you happy with the results?
If not, it might be time to reassess how you’re choosing your photographer.