How To Hire a Brand Photographer — 5 Things To Consider First
Finding yourself in need of consistent content for social media, blog posts, and other miscellaneous marketing projects?
Ready to establish your brand as professional with a cohesive image?
Then chances are you’re ready to work with a brand photographer.
Below are 5 things to consider before hiring a photographer that will help you choose one that is right for you and your brand.
1. Do you like the style of their brand/website/portfolio?
Sure, the photographer you have in mind can do everything you’re looking for, but do you like their design aesthetic for your brand? Of course, there’s no rule that says you have to work with a photographer who encompasses your own unique style themselves, but finding one that already creates work that you love means they will be more likely to offer a better concept for you. Before hiring a photographer, ask yourself “Can I imagine my brand in their photos?”
2. Use the power of social media
Google isn’t the only place to search for photographers. You can try searching hashtags on Instagram (#CityNamePhotographer,CityBrandPhotographer, etc.), for groups on Facebook (try searching something like “Photography + your city name”), or even on Linkedin. You can even put a call out on your social media channels letting your audience know that you’re looking for a photographer, and to send recommendations.
3. Know the scope of photography you need
A good photographer will have a free consultation with you before you book a shoot. It’s handy to come to the consultation with clear expectations as to what you are looking for. Being clear with your needs ensures that the photographer is obliged to deliver quality images.
A few points you might discuss during a photography consultation:
- What you expect from your session.
- Shoot details (how many looks you want, which locations you want to shoot at, any deadlines you have, etc.)
- How many final images you need and what you will be using them for.
- The experience you want to convey and who your audience is.
4. What is their process?
During your consultation call you will want to learn about the photographer’s personal process (they’re all different). This will help you get a feel as to if they are an amateur or a professional. It will also help you get a better understanding as to if you’ll feel comfortable working with them.
You can ask the photographer questions like:
- Can they assist with posing?
- What is a typical photoshoot like?
- What equipment do they use?
- When do they expect payment?
- Do they edit the photos?
- Do they watermark images?
5. Don’t hire based on price
Something I see all the time when it comes to photography is that brands want to spend as much time with the photographer as they can for the least expensive price. Being a small business myself I understand how tight budgets can be, but hiring a photographer based on their prices is a guaranteed way to get what you pay for - poor quality photos from an inexperienced photographer.
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