When we book photographers, we are booking them because we know, like, & trust them.
We see their work & we like their style. We experience emotions when we see the smiles or the tears, knowing that it takes skill to know when to press the shutter. We are eager to show off our photos to friends & family because we love the light in which we are cast. We trust them to pull out of us what we know is there: beauty.
Sometimes, though, we may not be as happy with the photos as we thought we would be.
There are obviously many reasons why our photos disappoint us. Here are some important things to consider as you navigate booking a photographer to avoid being disappointed with your photos.
1. Don’t book a photographer whose style you don’t like. I know this seems like an obvious point to make, but many times we may feel peer-pressured or sort of “brainwashed” by whatever seems fashionable or trendy. Its an easy trap to fall into! Your photos will have dark shadows if all of that photographer’s work has dark shadows. Your photos will be light & airy if that photographer’s portfolio is filled with light & airy shots. There are tons of styles out there, so find the one you think is the most timeless & go for it!
2. Make sure you understand that in order for the moments to look like you remembered them, you must dress the part, set up the scene, etc. My mentor Elicia Bryan & I were discussing the constant reliability of those beautiful cafe string lights at weddings. They’re romantic; they’re helping the camera capture those gorgeous moments that would otherwise be lost in the dark or ruined by an abrasive flash. When you book a photographer, notice those little details that are part of the ambiance of the photos you love. Strive to create that mood by doing a little on your end, & the work will meet you in the middle.
3. If you don’t like a certain part of your body, do some work on your end to hide it or camouflage it! Photographers are not miracle workers, as much as we all wish they were. Photos will obviously be taken with attention to flattering angles (any professional knows how to do this with all different shapes & sizes), but if you hate your arms & wear a sleeveless top, then no matter the angle, you’ll hate your photos.
4. If you have a certain pose or location you really want documented during your time with your photographer, don’t be afraid to speak up. Some of the cutest photos happen when the client has an idea (even if its totally silly/cheesy/weird), & then we try to make it happen! Even if it results in all of us in fits of laughter, hey, we got some good shots out of it!
Remember that feedback is a gift, so don’t be afraid to communicate your concerns with your photographer.
If your photographer is truly concerned with creating happy clients, everything should be done within reason to satisfy the client. There is no way to learn & grow without honest feedback, either, so the photography professional should attempt to understand your concerns. Photography businesses wouldn’t exist without clients, so we want our clients to be happy!
Once you have booked the right photographer & you love their work, tell all your friends!
Word of mouth, even in the age of the internet, is still one of the best ways small businesses can grow. Posting google/facebook/etc. reviews is invaluable to photographers. Plus, chances are, if your style & the photographer’s style are in alignment, your friends will appreciate that same vibe too…& then book your photographer!