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5 Tips for Choosing a Photographer - Photographer Colts Neck NJ
If you're wondering which photographer to hire for your next photo session, you may feel confused with all the options out there.
5 Tips for Choosing a Photographer - Photographer Colts Neck NJ
If you’re wondering which photographer to hire for your next photo session, you may feel confused with all the options out there. Who is best for what you need? The answer will involve a lot of research before selecting the right professional. Heed these top five tips:
- Experience trumps everything. We suggest looking for someone with at least four years of experience. New photographers are just like new teen drivers. They aren’t quite sure how to operate the equipment and end up making a bunch of rookie mistakes. Experience doesn’t come from a class. It comes from in-the-trenches learning on every job. This is much more important than fancy equipment and flashy logos. How comfortable is your photographer behind the lens?
- Don’t be wowed by fancy marketing: Google can’t differentiate between a company with 25 years of experience and one with five months experience. Anyone can throw a fancy ad in a wedding magazine and say they are a seasoned professional. They can even order a bunch of glossy sample cards and business cards. Often times, the quality is just not there to back up all the flash. Good photographers don’t have to slap a logo on the side of their car because they are already super busy with word of mouth referrals. Ask each photographer you interview what their level of experience is. Then, ask your family and friends who they trust.
- Get details on prices. Prices should be in line with experience. A high price tag may give you sticker shock, but their prices are usually high for a reason: they’re in demand so they can name their price. They’re booked for months or years and don’t need to lower their rates for anyone. Super low prices can be a red flag, signaling a desperation for work and low-quality craftsmanship.
- Be wary of heavy-handed photo editors: Today’s available technology makes it real easy for anyone to become a “photographer.” It’s OK to use some Photoshop or Lightroom in moderation, but if a photographer has a tendency to heavily manipulate their photos, you may want to look elsewhere. True professionals don’t need these tools to create great photos. They may use them for stylistic effect, but not to cover up mistakes.
Contact AJK Photography
See what sets AJK Photography apart from the rest. We welcome you to schedule a consult with us or call 732-618-3813.
