LOCATION MATTERS

Unless you already have a location in mind that is important to you, make sure your photographer is prepared to offer suggestions. Important part is that your ideas are heard and suggestions match style you are looking for. As an example...If you are a city girl, you would not feel in your element if your session took place on a rustic farm. 

Note: Make sure your photographer acquires location licences/permits, if needed. You and photographer may get fined or kicked out if private property. 

PORTFOLIO

Photographers usually only post one or two images per session on their website or social media. They show only the best image from the session. Make sure they show a full-featured session, or if they do not, feel free to ask for one. Seeing what is delivered to client in full, will give you a better picture of what kind of images you could expect. Make sure you do not end up with only a handful of high quality images. 

THEIR STYLE

This is very important. Photographers are professional artists, each with their unique style of editing. Look for someone whose style you love and it matches your. If you like light& bright, moody, grungy, muted, lifestyle, studio, B/W, or painterly editing style...make sure you choose a photographer whose portfolio matches your expectation. 

Another thing to think about is over-editing. Do they offer blemish removal, charge extra for removing items, do they over edit skin etc. Again, make sure your style matches theirs. 

PRINTS vs DIGITALS

Often clients think all they need are digital files so they can share them on social media. Seeing their images on canvas, large print or albums, makes them realize how much they actually LOVE heirloom-quality products, in addition to digital files. While having digital files and sharing them on Instagram or FB, our clients often share their experiences of actually holding a leather album in their hands, or mounting their images on walls. It really is a special feeling. You deserve to love your images now, and 20 years from now. Make sure your photographer provides high quality print products as well as digital files. 

TESTIMONIALS

You should never overlook what clients are saying OR if there are no testimonials to be found. If you read reviews about a restaurant you are taking your family to tonight, why wouldn't you do the same for your photographer? Take a look on their web site, their FB page, Yelp, Google to mention a few. 

Talk to your friends. Reach out to people you trust and who may have used this photographer's services. Ask moms and other seniors about their experiences, good or bad.

DO YOU CLICK?

The goal should be finding a photographer your CLICK with. Not only to feel connection with their work, but with them, with their personality. They should help you feel comfortable in front of the camera, and care about your entire experience. Senior year happens only once. Make your session count!

QUESTIONS TO ASK

Remember, not all sessions are the same. Always keep in mind what is your priority. Ask them what is included in the session, how many locations or wardrobe changes are included. How long is the coverage etc. 

PRICE AS A PRIORITY

Photography is not an essential service. It is a luxury for most people. I totally get it. Price is the first thing that most people ask about. BUT, you should not let price stop you from getting the look and experience you deserve. Just like with anything else, with photography too, you most often get what you pay for. What people usually are not aware of, is the amount of time that goes into preparation communication prior to the session, as well as the time in post processing of the entire gallery. Then, if you add endless hours of continuous education photographers undergo, cost of equipment, insurance, licences, monthly overhead... you get the picture, you get why legit photographers who take pride in their art charge a higher price. For example, if you end up choosing to book a new photographer who is still working on their portfolio (and there is nothing wrong with that, every one has to start somewhere), your experience and final product may be completely different. It all comes down to you, your needs and what you are comfortable with. But keep in mind that higher price point, almost always comes with a more high end experience. 

Note: Don't throw i the towel! You might be able to get the images you really want - some photographers offer payment plans - don't be afraid to ask. 

WARDROBE DO'S & DON'TS 

Just like a location, your photographer should be able to help you with choosing your wardrobe for the session. This is part of photographer's job. They should ask all the right question to learn about your ideas and personality, and based on that, offer suggestions. If on the contrary, they are TELLING you what to wear without learning anything about you, you might have to ask yourself if the session is more about them than it is about you. Your ideas and creative input should be their guidelines. 

For more hints about wardrobe, click on the button bellow.  

PARENTS AND PHOTO SESSION

This is something you may not think about, however, it is important. Photographers should require at least one parent/guardian at the session. A good photographer will offer to take some parent/sibling/family shots as well. It is very important that your photographer allows parents to be present. Be prepared though, they may even use you as an assistant. 

FOUND A PERFECT PHOTOGRAPHER - BOOK THEM!

You have done your research, and you are happy with your final decision. You found yourself a perfect photographer for YOU. BOOK THEM! Don't wait! Many good photographers are often booked weeks/months in advance and offer only limited number of sessions. 

Note: For Senior sessions, I suggest booking your session during your Junior year, to make sure you get exact date and photographer you are looking for. 

OK, hope these tips were helpful and will make you process of choosing that perfect photographer for YOUR session little easier. If you think I may be the one, I would love to talk to you. Click on the button bellow and let's get in touch.

XXX,
Lana