10 Key Questions to Ask before hiring a photographer
If you found your way to this guide, chances are you're searching for the perfect commercial photographer for your brand, product, or service. My name is Jeremy, and I'm a Minneapolis-based product photographer (although I've created marketing visuals for brands nationwide). I’m here to help you navigate the process of selecting the right photographer for your project.
Whether you’re launching a new product, rebranding, or just need new visuals and a fresh perspective, asking the right questions can make all the difference. An online search will come up with tons of options for a product photographer, so after looking at their portfolios, checking out their work, and reading reviews, you'll still want to ask a few questions before jumping in.
Unfortunately, there are too many scammers out there who have a pretty website but don't deliver. I don't want that to happen to you, and I hope this guide helps you book your photographer or videographer with confidence. As always, don't hesitate to reach out!
10 Important Questions to Ask Before Booking a Commercial Photographer
1. What Is Your Experience with Similar Commercial Photography Projects?
Like most things, experience matters. Ask potential photographers about their experience with projects similar to yours. Have they worked with brands in your industry? Can they handle product photography, restaurant photography, lifestyle shots, corporate headshots, etc. (depending on your business)?
For example, someone specializing only in food and restaurant photography may not be the best for a skincare campaign if they've never done that before. Not all photography is the same--just as you would not see a brain surgeon for heart problems.
Industry-specific knowledge can be a big advantage, as the photographer will be familiar with the nuances and trends of your market. While not always necessary, industry experience can streamline the project and enhance the results.
Why Ask This?
Understanding a photographer's background can give you a sense of their expertise and style. A portfolio showcases a photographer's style, quality of work, and versatility.
Things to Consider:
Look for consistency in quality and style.
Check if their previous work aligns with your brand’s aesthetic.
Pay attention to the images' lighting, composition, and overall feel.
Ask for client testimonials or references.
Example:
"Can you tell me about your experience in commercial photography and share some examples of past projects that are similar to mine? Where can I find your portfolio?"
2. What Is Your Creative Process?
Understanding a photographer’s creative process can help gauge whether they’re a good fit for your project. Do they offer creative direction and visual marketing strategy, or do they prefer you to have a clear vision? How do they handle pre-production planning, such as mood boards or shot lists?
Why Ask This?
Every photographer has a unique process; knowing what to expect can help you feel more comfortable and prepared.
Things to Consider:
Ensure their workflow aligns with your project needs.
Discuss how involved you’ll be in the creative planning stages.
Ask about their flexibility in accommodating your ideas.
Look for photographers who are organized, communicative, and open to collaboration.
Example:
"Can you walk me through your creative process, from initial consultation to final delivery? Do you offer strategy guidance?"
3. Do You Offer Pre-Production Services?
Why Ask This?
Pre-production services like concept development, storyboarding, and location scouting can be crucial for a successful shoot.
Consider:
Do you need help with planning, strategy, and logistics?
Do you want a photographer who offers comprehensive pre-production support?
What are your goals for this shoot and the overall project?
Example:
"Do you assist with pre-production planning, and if so, what services do you provide?"
4. What Does Your Pricing Include?
Photography pricing can vary greatly, so it’s essential to understand what the cost includes. Does the price cover editing, retouching, and licensing fees? Are there additional costs for travel, props, or assistants?
Why Ask This?
Understanding the cost upfront can prevent surprises later.
Things to Consider:
Discuss payment terms and any potential additional fees.
Understand the licensing terms for how you can use the images.
Look for transparency in pricing and clarity on what's included.
Example:
"Can you provide a breakdown of what your packages include? Do you offer a la carte services, or can you create a customized project proposal?"
5. How Do You Handle Post-Production?
Post-production is crucial in commercial photography. Ask photographers to provide examples of their editing and retouching work to see if their skills in enhancing images match your brand’s quality standards.
Why Ask This?
Post-production can significantly impact the final quality of your images.
Things to Consider:
Look for natural and polished editing that complements the original photography.
Discuss your expectations for post-production work.
Ask if they offer retouching services.
Example:
"What's your approach to post-production, and what happens if I need additional edits?"
6. What Is Your Availability and Turnaround Time?
Ensure the photographer’s availability aligns with your project timeline. Ask about their typical turnaround time for delivering the final images.
Why ask this?
Timeliness is critical for commercial projects, especially when handling tight deadlines. This also sets expectations for both parties.
Things to Consider:
Confirm the photographer’s availability for your desired dates.
Discuss the timeline for receiving proofs and final images.
Ask about their process for handling urgent projects.
Example:
"How long does it typically take to receive the final images?"
7. Do You Have Insurance and Backup Equipment?
Professionalism includes preparing for the unexpected. Inquire if the photographer has liability insurance and backup equipment in case of technical issues.
Why ask this?
This can provide peace of mind that your project will proceed smoothly, even if something goes wrong.
Things to Consider:
Ensure they have liability insurance to cover any potential accidents.
Confirm they have backup cameras and equipment.
Discuss contingency plans for weather or other unforeseen challenges.
Example:
"Do you bring backup equipment to every shoot in case of a malfunction, and do you have liability insurance?"
8. How Do You Ensure Our Brand Values Are Reflected in Your Work?
Why Ask This?
Your brand's identity and values should shine through in every image.
Consider:
Choose a photographer who takes the time to understand your brand and can translate your vision into compelling visuals.
Example:
"How do you incorporate a client's brand values and identity into your photography?"
9. What Is Your Availability and Flexibility?
Why Ask This?
Scheduling conflicts can derail a project, so confirming availability upfront is essential.
Consider:
Ensure the photographer can accommodate your timeline and is flexible enough to handle unforeseen changes.
Example:
"What's your current availability, and how flexible are you with scheduling changes?"
10. Can We do a Test Shoot or Consultation?
Before committing to a full project, you might want to have a test shoot or consultation to ensure the photographer is the right fit.
Why Ask This?
This allows you to see their working style and how well they understand your brand’s needs.
Things to Consider:
Schedule a consultation to discuss your project in detail.
Consider a test shoot to evaluate their skills and compatibility.
Use this time to build rapport and ensure clear communication.
Example:
"Can we schedule a test shoot or consultation first to see if we are a good fit?"
Final Thoughts
Booking a commercial photographer is an important investment. These questions and considerations will help you find the perfect match for your brand. Remember, clear communication and shared vision are critical for a successful partnership.
