So you know you want photos taken and you start googling photographers in your city. Whew! The search can get overwhelming really fast. There are so many options for photographers who look decent, but how do you pick the one that’s right for you?
I’m going to share some ideas all about finding the right photographer and knowing what to prepare for so you’re sure to love your photos!
Model Clara Charmak
1. Finding the right photographer
The first place to start is finding a photographer that creates photos you like! All photographers have differences in their style of taking and editing photos. Since photos are visual of course, a quick way to check for photographers you like is to do a search on Instagram. A simple search of your city name and photographer will bring you lots of results, although many photographers are willing to travel so don’t worry if the one you really like doesn’t live near you. When viewing their posts check to see if their colors and quality are consistent. Think about how their photos make you feel. Can you see yourself being one of the people in their photos?
Once you find several photographers whose style matches the look you like, narrow your search down to the specialists. If you’re eloping, choose an elopement photographer, if you want candid shots, find a lifestyle photographer, if you need branding photos for your business find a photographer that only shoots branding photos for businesses. Its not a bad thing for photographers to shoot multiple genres, but my personal advice is choose a specialist. That way you’ll know they have the experience and the right mindset to deliver exactly what you need.
Once you have narrowed down your search to a few options then go ahead and inquire with those photographers! If you lien options a long list can be nice but I suggest having at least one first choice and also a backup if you change your mind or your first choice is unavailable to you.
2. Inspiration board
After your photographer has been chosen, it’s time to start planning your shoot. Your photographer will want you to love your photos and a good way to ensure that you do is to have the same expectations for the final photos. Search on Pinterest for the kind of photos you want and create a board that the photographer can also see so they know what you like. Keep in mind that you chose to hire them for their style so the photos you receive won’t be exactly like what you find on Pinterest but this is a great way for your photographer to get to know you. I suggest choosing 20-30 different pins, more than that may get confusing. Trust that your photographer can deliver what you’re needing but also don’t be afraid to tell them about any specific must-have shots that are on your list.
3. Outfit plan
Next, it’s time to plan your outfits. The number of outfits you next will depend on the length of your photo session and the package you have purchased. For my branding sessions, clients get at least two outfits so I always make sure to remind them to get both a casual and a fancy outfit. This way you get more use out of your photos. When choosing items for your outfits my advice is to choose plain colored clothes with a pop of something interesting. You want to stand out in the photos but you can still show your fun personality with a velvet texture, a rainbow-striped shirt under a serious black blazer, or wild animal print shoes. Don’t forget to accessorize! Choose things that represent you or things you like. Too many accessories can be distracting so two to three items should be plenty.
4. Schedule hair/makeup
Another way you can help yourself feel excited and super prepared for photos is to get fancy before the event. Getting your hair and makeup professionally done will help you to feel like you look your best. Your photographer is a great resource to recommend a hair and makeup artist for you.
5. Treat yourself
Ultimately you should think about your photos session as a way to treat yourself. If you look forward to it that will go a long way toward your photos being natural and look like your true personality. You’ve done all the prep work, now don’t be afraid to celebrate your amazing self! And maybe take yourself out on a date after it’s all over.
Model Clara Charmak
I hope these tips help you feel super prepared and confident for your photo session. Any photographer can pose you like a mannequin but the photos you will treasure will be the ones that show you as your true self. With this inside knowledge from a real photographer you will be able to choose the best photographer for you, communicate your personality, and have an amazing photo session!