How to Choose a Professional Photographer

When you are looking for a photographer, there are several things to keep in mind. 

Working with a photographer can be a very personal experience.  Whether you are having a portrait taken, getting married, or producing an advertisement for your business, it is important that you can "get along with" the photographer you choose.  He or she will need to listen to your ideas and apply their creativity and expertise to produce the images that you need.  For this reason, be sure that the photographer you choose has a personality that can mesh with yours.

Second, be sure to review a variety of work prior to selecting your photographer. Ask to see work from a complete assignment, not just one or 2 shots from an assignment.  In the case of a wedding, ask to see an entire wedding.

Ask questions about back-up equipment, guarantees, re-shoot policy, delivery times, etc.

In today's "Digital Age," everybody and their mother thinks that they are a professional photographer.  To insure you are dealing with a true professional, ask how long they have been in business. Ask about their participation in professional organizations.  Be sure they have all of the appropriate licenses for your area. Licensing requirements vary by state and city.  Be careful of photographers who have been in business for short amounts of time, are un-licenses, who don't participate in continuing education, etc.

Remember, in photography, just like in other professions, cheaper is not necessarily better.  You typically "get what you pay for."  If you find a "cheap deal" you will likely get just that, cheap images.  That may be OK in some circumstances but if you are promoting your business of recording your wedding, you don't want to go cheap.  Portraits are important as well so choose a photographer that can produce the quality of work that you want, not just the cheapest you can find.  It is best to find a photographer that produces the quality that you need and THEN see if their rates fit your budget.

Finally, take your time in choosing a photographer.  Do the proper research before making a decision.