Choosing the right photographer can be a daunting task in a widely saturated market. The good thing is, with these many options, you will be able to find the perfect match for your personal portrait needs. All you need to do is ask the right questions. The most important thing is to choose a professional with experience who's personality and business conduct aline with your hopes and dreams for the outcome of your portrait session.
Below are a few of the questions you may want to ask.

How long have you been a photographer?

The longer a photographer has been in business, the more likely it is that it’s not just a hobby for them. They have the right gear and know how to use it. Most importantly they have the experience to capture you in the most flattering way and bring out everyones personality, rain or shine.

What's Included in the Session Fee?

The difference in cost from one photographer to the next can be as great as night and day. Your investment is directly tied to the level of service you will receive in the end. Think of it this way: Similar to how hotel prices vastly differ from one another, when one could argue that they're really just a room with a bed and a bathroom, same goes for photographers. But is that really all it is?!?!? Keep in mind that a photographer is running a business that is probably supporting a family. Their expenses range from business insurance, electricity, continued education, office expenses, equipment repair to rent, fuel for their car and more.

All this aside, what it all boils down to is, will your expectations be met or exceeded by the service and the products your photographer delivers. Talk to them about what's included and what you can expect to see in the end. They will be thrilled to share everything they have to offer. Also, ask about a payment plan - most photographers will have one in place.

Do you have many repeat clients?

This is a great litmus test of not only the quality of a photographer’s work but of their customer service too. You can also take a look at their customer reviews.

What is your studio policy on rescheduling a session?

An experienced photographer will definitely have a contract or Portrait agreement for you to sign with a policy in place when it comes to a customer cancelling or rescheduling a photography session. Not only that, it will most probably touch on the topics of

Cancellation Policy
Late Policy
Do not edit/reproduce clause
Copyright
Model Release
Substitute Photographer
Covid-19 Waiver
General photography contract

A photographer with policies indicates that they have experience with different types of customers and situations and have created policies accordingly.

Have you had any experience with (name your specific concern)?

If you have any specific concerns regarding your photo session such as the photographer’s ability to work with a special needs child for example, find out if they have ever handled that type of situation before. Do not dismiss a photographer and their abilities based on their answers to your concerns. If given adequate notice, an experienced photographer should be able to deal with any situation you present them. This is the hallmark of a true pro.

Do you like their personality?

This is more important than anything else! It requires you to set an appointment to meet with the photographer before your session. Most photographers will offer this as part of their booking process. If not, ask them. Take the time to get to know them and ask all the questions you might have. How long have they been in business, what's their cancellation policy, do they belong to any association to further their skill, do they have insurance, do they have children, what's their favorite food…. Whatever you want to know, ask away. Having a great connection with your photographer is the corner stone to having a great session and loving your portraits in the end. Remember, a photographer can come with all kids of recommendations

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