Principles in Choosing a Portrait Photographer
For most occasions, our own point and shoot camera is sufficient to record an event. Yet there are special occasions, like family reunions, when you will probably want to pay a professional to be sure it is done right. Of course, it will cost more than taking it yourself and having your own pictures enlarged. But the enduring quality of a good portrait will be worth it. After all, you are investing in the future by recording a memory of the past. Therefore, selecting the right photographer will be important. Consider these eight principles in making a wise choice.
1) Location- Is the studio a convenient distance from your home? Remember that you may well have to go there at least three times. You will need to get the picture made, then perhaps have to return to select a pose, and then, of course, pick up the final product. Ask too, is the building easy to access in terms of traffic and parking?
2) Facility- A family with several children got up early on a Saturday morning to be on time for their appointment for a family portrait. But once they arrived, they learned that the studio was too small to get everyone in. Is the studio a store front or an established facility that is prepared to photograph whatever size group you have?
3) Punctuality- Are they on time for the appointment you made with them? Have they allowed enough time to get the picture right? Are the promised results available when they promised? Check with others who have used their services to see if they are punctual.
4) Personality- Do the employees handle themselves professionally? Are they friendly and personable? Do they treat you with the respect you deserve? How do they manage with small children and babies? Are they able to accommodate special needs people? Often portraits can be stressful times to get everyone clean and dressed and in the car on time. Smaller children will not hide their tiredness or irritation. A good photographer should be able, under most circumstances, to handle these everyday occurrences.
5) Skill- Is the lighting shadow free? This is often the one area amateurs are least able to imitate. Also, a skilled photographer should be able to arrange the group so it is balanced, key people are highlighted, and everyone can be seen. They should be able to quickly arrange the group to make an attractive photograph.
6) Choice- A good photographer will take enough pictures so that you have ample choices from which to pick your favorites. How long do you have to wait before the proofs are available? Some companies will allow you to select your favorites while you are there. Are their recommendations motivated by money or what is best for you? Are they able to present the options without making you feel under pressure?
7) Integrity- Is the company honest? If they promised you one free picture or your unchosen proofs, do they keep that promise? Do they have the pictures ready when they promised? How would you estimate your overall experience in working with them?
Price- Obviously, professional photography will be more expensive than taking the pictures yourself. After all, they must pay for quality cameras, staff, and facilities. Just be sure that their price is competitive. If you call several firms and compare prices, you will at least be sure you are not cheated.
From our experience, getting a good family portrait can be a stressful time, but is worth the investment. If you follow these principles in selecting a photographer, you will likely be glad you had it done professionally.
