How To Find A Photographer 101

When researching a photographer, I always go to the number 1 source…. SOCIAL MEDIA (Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, Tumblr, LinkedIN, and Pinterest… you name it !

I personally, L-O-V-E INSTAGRAM!

The best part about choosing a photographer is the fact you are choosing YOUR Photographer. You pick the concept, location, style, hair, and makeup unless its a paid gig. That is the beauty of it all! Few photographers have an onset wardrobe stylist, make-up artist, or hairstylist in their package deal.

What are some key points when choosing a photographer, you may ask, as a beginner?

A.-Quality- the editing is definitely a must and a skill. You want your audience to see definition, facial and body features, saturation, highlight….all of it without the model being wash, blur. Crystal clear!

B. Reviews/comments- Checkout his/her current and past clients who have worked with that photographer, look into their Facebook and Instagram comments. As a beginner, definitely reach out to the photographer via email and his past clients direct message. 8/10 people will give their honest feedback on their experience with a photographer.

C.Speciality- Does the photographer shoot editorial, B/W, beauty, high fashion, or catalog.

D. Budget: You need to be honest with yourself and your pockets.

*E. Creative direction: A photographer who is able to give you clear and specific directions on how to pose, expression, and angles is a plus.A photographer once said, in order to be good at your craft (modeling) , you must practice different facial expressions at least 15 minutes a today in the mirror, then mix the two expressions)

If money is tight, there is option a. find an upcoming local photographer who is willing to collaborate with you. Both you and the photographer can promote each other’s brand through social media

b. Once a month, Graffiti Alley host concept/ theme photoshoot(s) for upcoming models, photographers in Baltimore,MD for $25. The calendar dates are listed on their Facebook page.

Congratulations ! You found your photographer! What’s next? Are you going to hand over your money or ask some questions?

Questions to ask photographers when booking a shoot for beginners:

Most of photographers have a packages- Studio ( Head-shots, Beauty, Commercial or Editorial Fashion Shoot), On-Site -Location ( In state), Off-site ( Out of State)

a.What is your rate (per hour or per outfit)? Is there a limit for outfits ?( bloggers/influencers)

b. Is there a deposit? ( the deposit is to secure the date of shoot, more than likely, its non- refundable). Does the deposit go toward the remaining balance for the shoot?

c. How many edited images do I receive? Are raw/unedited images included? If I need additional images, what is the cost?

c. What is the price for booking on-site vs off-site? Location:

d. What is the turn around time in receiving images?

e. Is a MUA included in the price?

Lastly, Do you have an updated contract for clients?

The contract is to protect you and the photographer in any case of discrepancies in regards images, finances, and inappropriate advertisement/promotion. The contract should include everything stated above in the questionnaire and whether the photographer is able to release photographs of you online via social platform and/or personal website to promote his or her brand.

Yay! You found your photographer! so are you going to book him/her or nah?

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