How To Choose the Right Photographer For You

There are a lot of people out there calling themselves photographer's these days, and while I don't necessarily think everyone has to have a degree or X years of experience to be good, you should be selective in your choice and do your research. Here are a few points to consider when choosing a photographer.

Environment

Whatever style you are looking to create, whether it is cheeky pinup, sexy boudoir or some other retro or vintage style, you will want to feel comfortable. The photographer and/or assistant should help you to feel at ease and give you some direction as to how to pose to achieve the look you are aiming for. How long do you have in front of the camera? Is there a female on hand to assist? My advice is to talk to them beforehand to develop your idea. As well, you should talk to friends who have used the photographer's services or seek out other's recommendations.

Hair and Makeup

Generally the photographer should be able to arrange this for you. Alternatively, if you are confident to do it yourself (maybe you are a makeup artist!) this should be reflected in the price. Again, it is a good idea to discuss your ideas beforehand to make sure they can be achieved. As with choosing a photographer, have a look at the work of the makeup artist/hair stylist. Again, they do not necessarily have to have a certain qualification, but you should take a good look at their work and see if you would be happy with that look.

Editing and Retouching

Have a look at the photographer's work. Are they able to create the look and feel you are after?
Editing generally refers to selection of the best images and may include some colour adjustment and cropping. Do you get to choose the images (with advice from the photographer if needed) or will the photographer choose them for you?
Retouching is the digital manipulation of the images and can range from slight to major. You should discuss with the photographer to determine what level of retouching you are happy with. Generally skin smoothing and smoothing out of any bulges (such as bra overhang) enhance the picture while not making you appear drastically different.

Styling

Do you need any assistance with choosing your outfit, accessories or props? Again it's best to thoroughly work through your idea beforehand and determine if the photographer can create it.

What do you get?

Make sure to ask what you will get for your money. Will you only get low-resolution images suitable for sharing on Facebook? Will you get high resolution images that will allow you to print off pictures yourself? And most importantly what about copyright of the images? Will the photographer give you permission to submit them for publication? Or even share them on Facebook?

In summary, do your research and ask questions. And let me know if you have any tips to add!