FIVE QUESTIONS YOU NEED TO ASK YOUR PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHER

If you are asked about your most cherished moments, the answer would rarely be an academic achievement or a promotion. The moments we cherish the most are the ones we spend with our families. Family portraits are supposed to capture this essence and be a reflection of these moments. Whether it is a christmas card portrait or an annual family portrait that will adorn your walls, good family portraits capture the overall personality of your family the uniqueness that sets them apart from the rest of the world and displays it in the most memorable manner possible. If you’re looking for something similar, these are the questions you need to ask your portrait photographers: QUESTION 1. CAN I SEE SOME OF YOUR WORK? There are a lot of amateurs getting into the photography business looking to make a quick buck. But in most cases, these amateurs lack the required skill, talent and technique to consistently capture superb pictures. Asking this question will help you distinguish between an amatuer and an experienced professional. Ask to look at a full photo session instead of a collection of their best work. This way you can not only gain perspective about their experience, but also find out if their style of photography matches what you are looking for. QUESTION 2. WHAT DOES THE PACKAGE/FEE INCLUDE? It is crucial to clearly understand what you’re really getting for your money. It saves you from last minute confusion and sometimes, despair. Most photographers do not include printing or delivery costs in their fee. Their fee include the photographer’s time, equipment, and of course the talent and expertise they bring with them. Don’t forget to ask about the print release. They are quite different from copyright release. A print release will grant you the right to print the images from any lab you want and a copyright release grants you or any third party, a right to edit the photographs. QUESTION 3. HOW SHOULD MY FAMILY AND I PREPARE? If you’re working with a good photographer, chances are, you won’t have to ask them this. They will help you with tips that will make your family feel comfortable while being photographed. Tips should only include about the kind of clothes, if a change of clothes will be needed, lighting, colour and everything else related to the session. You might be surprised how much goes into consideration for a single shoot. QUESTION 4. WHEN WILL THE PHOTOS BE DELIVERED? The delivery time varies greatly from one photographer to another. Some deliver within two weeks, some may take upto six to eight weeks. It is better to ask about this in advance and set clear expectations accordingly. QUESTION 5. IS THERE A REFUND POLICY? A refund is usually applicable in two cases. These are: a.In case there is an emergency and you are not able to show up for the session. Everyone has different policies regarding cancellations. To avoid awkward situations, ask about this in the beginning itself. b.In case the work is not up to the mark. If you are not satisfied, will your money be refunded? Working with someone that gives guarantee on their work is a sign that you are working with someone trustworthy. CONCLUSION Before wrapping up this blog post, I would like to point out that photography can sometimes be a large investment. So before you decide who you want to work with, make sure you have asked around and done your research. If at first, you aren’t able to find someone that suits your tastes and needs, don’t worry, creativity knows no bounds and there is someone out there that will surely be able to understand your needs.