Eight Principles for Choosing a Portrait Photographer
Most of us have a digital camera and can record the important events in our lives with it. But there are times when it is worth paying a professional to do it right. One such occasion is when getting the portrait of a person or group. It will of course cost more than if you did it yourself. But you will be making an investment in the future by recording a reminder of the past. Such occasions mean you will want to choose a photographer wisely. Below are eight principles designed to help you with this decision.
1) Location- Is the studio close enough to your home to be convenient? Remember that you will probably have to go there at least three times, to get the picture made, to make a choice, and to pick up the final product. Too, is it accessible or do you have to cross a heavy traffic area?
2) Facility- One family got up early on a Saturday morning to meet their appointment for a family portrait only to find the studio was too small to get everyone in the picture. Is the studio large enough to accommodate the group you want photographed?
3) Punctuality- Are they on time for the appointment you made with them? Have they allowed enough time to get the picture right? Are the promised results available when they promised? Check with others who have used their services to see if they are punctual.
4) Personality- Do the employees handle themselves professionally? Are they friendly and personable? Do they treat you with the respect you deserve? How do they manage with small children and babies? Are they able to accommodate special needs people? Often portraits can be stressful times to get everyone clean and dressed and in the car on time. Smaller children will not hide their tiredness or irritation. A good photographer should be able, under most circumstances, to handle these everyday occurrences.
5) Skill- Is the lighting shadow free? This is often the one area amateurs are least able to imitate. Also, a skilled photographer should be able to arrange the group so it is balanced, key people are highlighted, and everyone can be seen. They should be able to quickly arrange the group to make an attractive photograph.
6) Choice- A good photographer will take ample pictures so that you have plenty of choices. Are the proofs ready to view immediately or will you have to return? Will they make recommendations that are in your best interest and not just their pocketbook? Are they able to present the various packages without putting you under pressure?
7) Integrity- Do they keep their promises? For example, if they promised one free picture if you posed for them, do they keep that promise? Are the pictures ready on the promised date? If you know someone who used them before, ask if their overall experience was good or bad?
Price- photographs may seem expensive but when you remember that they must pay for quality cameras, staff, and facilities, it is worth the extra expense. Yet, the price should be competitive. Call around to see what the average costs are for the picture you want.
From personal experience, getting a good family portrait can be stressful. Yet it is worth the investment. If you honor these rules in selecting a photographer, the record of your special event will indeed be an investment for a long time to come.
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