What to Look for When Hiring a Photographer

Photographers are professionals who specialize in areas such as portraits, products, weddings, and events. Some of these areas of expertise overlap, but many require training and specific equipment. Wedding photographers don’t just capture images of people; they produce photos that help you remember all the details of a special day. And when you need compelling shots of products for websites and catalogues, another set of skills, combined with appropriate lighting gear, is required. These situations have one thing in common: you have to choose from the many photographers who desire that job. Orderoo makes it easier through our app. One login gives you access to a range of experienced and reliable photographers. Which one will you choose? If you keep the following list of qualities in mind, you’ll find the best photographer for you. 

Hire a Specialist

Make sure you hire a photographer specializing in the type of shots you require. Just because someone owns a fancy camera doesn’t make them a photographer. And just because they work in a photographic studio producing images of commercial products for magazines doesn’t mean they will be a good wedding photographer. Working in a studio environment with fixed lighting is very different to capturing images of people in natural light or with an on-camera flash. Each type of photographic work requires specific cameras, lenses, lighting, and the ability to relate to clients in their individual situations.

See a Portfolio

Ensure the photographer shows you a portfolio of their work so you understand their approach to the subject. Photographers have different techniques. Some event photographers shoot with an edgy and trendy style, which is appealing to the organizers of music festivals and owners of nightclubs. Other photographers are more traditional, which is appropriate for weddings and corporate functions. See if the photographic style matches your vision for the photos you need. Checking examples of their work ensures you know what to expect from a photographer. Ensure the portfolio you see is taken by the person you are meeting. Sometimes the photographer accepts a job but then outsources the work to another photographer. Make it clear that you expect the photographer you are interviewing will be the one holding the camera on the day of the shoot.

Look for Testimonials and Reviews

Hiring a photographer can be a considerable investment, so checking feedback from previous clients is essential. Reviews from verified customers give you information about your potential photographer’s quality of workmanship and whether they met all of their customers’ expectations. Looking through reviews and testimonials provides details on the photographer’s work ethic, friendliness, and punctuality. The advantage of booking through Orderoo is that authentic feedback about a range of photographers is available on one website. You don’t have to search the Internet for reputable and reliable photographers. We vet our photographers! Using the Orderoo app from Apple or Google Play, you can find experienced photographers and look through their reviews in the comfort of your home.

Meet in Person

When you chat with a photographer in person, you feel whether you can trust them. Make time to meet a few photographers to ensure they communicate clearly and have a professional attitude. If you are hiring a wedding photographer, you will want someone with an approachable, outgoing nature that will put your guests at ease. When hiring a wedding or event photographer, ask them how long they will be in attendance. With any request for photographic services, enquire how they would approach a shoot of that nature. See if they have a thoughtful answer that shows they are creative and can spontaneously formulate ideas for the photographic session. Meeting the photographer also gives you the opportunity to discuss their availability and discover how quickly they can deliver the photographs after the shoot.

Ask What You’ll Receive for Your Money

Consider whether you want the photographer to supply prints, digital files, or both. Photographers often base their prices on the type of products they deliver, so it helps to have some idea of what you need. It’s recommended to ask for the final results to be fully edited. Some of the cheaper photographers have a lower price because they don’t spend time editing, but not many people can edit like a professional, so you’ll probably be disappointed with the results and have to make excuses for the photographer when you show your friends the photos taken. A good photographer with pride in their work will choose the best pictures from the session and edit them. You will receive a selection of the finest images covering all the required areas. Keep in mind that photographers have many expenses associated with their work. The latest cameras and lighting options are expensive, so don’t be tempted to choose the photographer with the lowest price, as that can sometimes reflect a lack of skill and experience. Exorbitant fees don’t necessarily mean a better photographer but be willing to invest a fair amount to get the best possible result. It’s a specialized industry, and photographers’ prices reflect their investment in equipment, facilities, and training. 

Why Hire a Professional Photographer?

Photos of a wedding help you remember all aspects of this special occasion, from the ceremony to the guests and the reception. When recording another type of event for promotional purposes or when you need images of products for advertising and promotion, you must hire an experienced photographer. With their creative vision, you can be assured of great composition, excellent timing, and high-resolution images. Professional photographers have the confidence to cope with all situations. A professional may also ask you to sign a contract for their services, so make sure you read it before making a booking. Don’t be put off by a legal agreement. It is designed to protect the photographer and you. It gives you a written understanding of the cancellation policy, liability limits, overtime fees, and travel costs.

Final Thoughts

The Orderoo app makes it easy to research photographers who can fulfil your required task. And by following the tips shown above, you can be sure that the person you hire is professional, fully qualified, and willing to provide the service you desire. Please return to our blog soon to discover more tips on hiring other types of professionals who can make your life easier!