How to Hire a Photographer for the First Time: Your No-Stress Guide
Natural Light Portrait in DTLA
So, you need to hire a photographer for the first time? Congrats! Whether it’s for a big event, family portraits, or just some updated headshots (hello, LinkedIn glow-up), this can be an exciting step. But let’s face it—hiring a photographer can feel a bit intimidating. Where do you even start?
Don’t worry; we’ve got your back. This guide will break it all down—what to look for, questions to ask, and tips to keep the process as smooth and stress-free as possible. Let’s dive in!
1. Know What You’re Looking For
First things first: what kind of photos are you dreaming about? Is it soft and romantic wedding vibes? Maybe bright, colorful family photos? Or are you looking for professional but personality-filled headshots?
💡 Pro Tip: Hop on Pinterest (or even Instagram) and create a board of inspiration photos. This will help you pinpoint the styles you love—and it’ll give your photographer a crystal-clear idea of what you want.
2. Stalk Some Local Photographers (In a Totally Normal Way)
Now that you know your style, it’s time to do some detective work. Look up local photographers in your area, scroll through their websites and social media, and start narrowing it down. Pay attention to:
Experience: Do they specialize in what you need?
Consistency: Do their photos look polished and professional across the board?
Reviews: Check those glowing testimonials for peace of mind.
💡 Hot Tip: Websites like Yelp, WeddingWire, and Thumbtack are goldmines for finding photographers with real client reviews.
3. Don’t Sleep on Newer Photographers
You know what’s awesome about newer photographers? They often charge lower prices because they’re building their portfolios—and you still get amazing results. Bonus: They’re usually super eager to impress and bring fresh, creative ideas to the table.
✨ Win-win alert: Not only do you save money, but you’re also supporting a small business. Everybody loves a feel-good story, right?
4. Ask the Big Questions
When you’ve got a few photographers in mind, reach out and ask all the important stuff. Here’s your cheat sheet:
Are you available on my date?
Have you done shoots like this before?
What’s included in your pricing? Are there any extra fees?
How long until I get my photos back?
What’s your deposit policy? Do I need to sign a contract?
💡 Friendly Reminder: Asking questions isn’t annoying—it’s smart. Photographers want to make sure you’re both on the same page!
5. Nail the Details
Once you’ve found your photographer soulmate (yes, it’s a thing), it’s time to hammer out the logistics:
Budget: Be upfront but flexible. If their style is perfect for you, it’s worth the splurge.
Location: Whether it’s your backyard, a park, or a fancy venue, let your photographer know so they can plan ahead.
Printing and Rights: Find out if you’re getting digital files, prints, or both—and who has the rights to the images.
6. Get Ready to Shine!
You’ve booked your photographer—yay! Now it’s time to prep for the shoot like a pro:
Share Your Vision: This is where that Pinterest board comes in handy.
Plan Outfits: Coordinate colors and avoid wild patterns (trust us).
Relax: The best photos happen when you’re having fun. Trust your photographer to guide you—they know all the tricks for making you look amazing.
7. First-Timer Freak-Outs (And Why You Don’t Need to Worry)
Let’s squash some common fears:
“I feel awkward in front of the camera.” Totally normal! A good photographer will help you feel relaxed and even make you laugh.
“What if I don’t like the photos?” That’s why communication is key. Share your must-have shots and vibes beforehand.
“Contracts make me nervous.” Think of it as a safety net for both of you. It’s just there to make sure everyone’s on the same page.
8. The Magic Happens When You Trust the Process
Once the camera starts clicking, let go and enjoy the moment. Photographers are like magicians—they know how to find the perfect lighting, angles, and moments to create images you’ll love forever.
Download Your Free Checklist!
🎉 Click here to grab your First-Time Photographer Hiring Checklist!
This handy PDF includes:
Questions to ask photographers.
A step-by-step shoot preparation guide.
Tips for creating an inspiration board.
Final Thoughts (And Your Next Steps!)
Hiring a photographer for the first time doesn’t have to be a nerve-wracking experience. With these tips in your back pocket, you’re ready to find the perfect match and make some photo magic.
📸 Ready to get started? We’d love to work with you! Contact Branndon Brown Photography to chat about your vision and create something amazing together.