How to Choose a Photographer: 10 Things to Consider Before You Book
Choosing a photographer isn't just about finding someone whose photographs you like. Whether you're booking family photographs, maternity portraits, branding imagery or a model portfolio session, the right photographer should feel like the right fit for you, your personality and the experience you're looking for.
Before you book, here are ten things I'd recommend considering.
Choosing a photographer isn't just about finding someone whose photographs you like. Whether you're booking family photographs, maternity portraits, branding imagery or a model portfolio session, the right photographer should feel like the right fit for you, your personality and the experience you're looking for.
Before you book, here are ten things I'd recommend considering.
1. Their Photography Style
Every photographer has their own style. Some are light and airy, others are dark and moody. Some favour candid moments while others create beautifully posed portraits.
Ask yourself:
Would I proudly display these photographs in my home?
Could I imagine these photographs on my own website or social media?
Do I love their work consistently or only a handful of images?
If you love a photographer's editing style, posing and overall aesthetic, that's a great place to start.
2. Can You Picture Yourself in Their Portfolio?
This is one of the biggest things people overlook.
It's easy to fall in love with beautiful photographs, but can you actually imagine yourself in them?
If you're a busy mum who lives in jeans and knitwear, a photographer who only photographs glamorous editorial sessions may not feel like the right fit. Equally, if you're building a premium business brand, you'll want imagery that reflects the level of business you're building.
You should feel represented by the work you're looking at.
3. Personality Matters
You'll spend anywhere from an hour to an entire day with your photographer, so personality matters more than people realise.
Ask yourself:
Do they make me feel comfortable?
Would I enjoy spending time with them?
Do I feel understood by their website and social media?
The best photographs happen when you feel relaxed and confident.
4. Don't Book Based on Price Alone
It's tempting to compare photographers based purely on cost, but photography isn't a like-for-like purchase.
Every photographer offers something different:
Experience
Style
Products
Customer service
Editing
Expertise
Time spent planning and photographing your session
Rather than asking who is the cheapest, ask which photographer offers the experience and photographs you're hoping for.
5. Look Beyond the Highlight Reel
Instagram is wonderful for showcasing beautiful imagery, but don't stop there.
Take the time to explore:
Their website
Full galleries
Blog posts
Service pages
Social media accounts
Can they consistently produce beautiful work across different clients and locations?
Consistency is far more important than one viral photograph.
6. Read Their Reviews
Reviews will often tell you more than a photographer's portfolio ever could.
Look for comments about:
The booking experience
Communication
Feeling comfortable
Professionalism
The finished photographs
How clients felt during their session
Pay particular attention to reviews that sound similar to your own concerns.
7. Think About the Finished Product
Ask yourself what you want to do with your photographs.
Do you want:
Wall art?
Printed albums?
Digital images for your business?
Professional headshots?
Gifts for family members?
Understanding what you want at the end of the process will help you choose the right photographer from the beginning.
8. Consider Their Experience
Experience isn't simply about how many years someone has been photographing.
It's about whether they have experience photographing people like you.
For example:
Families with young children.
Female business owners.
Maternity clients.
Women who feel nervous in front of the camera.
Aspiring models.
The more experience a photographer has within your particular type of session, the more confident you'll feel throughout the process.
9. When Should You Book?
The best photographers are often booked weeks or months in advance.
As a general rule, I'd recommend enquiring as soon as you know you'd like photographs taken. This is especially important if:
You're pregnant.
You're planning a business launch.
You're visiting Devon on holiday.
You're hoping for seasonal family photographs.
Booking early gives you more flexibility when choosing dates and planning your session.
10. Arrange a Call Before Booking
Finally, don't be afraid to ask questions.
Many photographers offer discovery calls or consultations before booking. This gives you the opportunity to discuss:
Your ideas.
Your concerns.
Your expectations.
What you're hoping to achieve.
A photographer can tick every box on paper, but if you don't feel excited after speaking to them, they may not be the right fit for you.
Don't Choose a Photographer Because They're Trending
Photography trends come and go.
Instead of choosing a photographer because they're popular on social media, choose someone whose work you'll still love years from now.
The right photographer isn't necessarily the one with the largest following or the most awards. It's the one whose work, personality and experience feel like the perfect fit for you.
Final Thoughts
Choosing a photographer is a personal decision. Take your time, ask questions and trust your instincts.
When you find someone whose work makes you stop scrolling and think, "That's exactly how I'd love to be photographed," you've probably found the right photographer.
Ready to book your session? Get in touch to schedule yours today.
Discover the latest photoshoot ideas, tip, updates and more
Join the monthly newsletter from Emma
+ receive a free, helpful posing guide when you join.