There are so many incredible senior photographers out there. But how do you go about choosing the one for you? I've put together 10 important questions to help you find your perfect senior photographer.
1. Does the session rate include digital images, or do I have to purchase those separately?
Every senior photographer does things a little differently. Some photographers include a certain amount of images included in the session rate for no extra charge and some photographers charge digital images separately at the end. Both are normal ways of designing their sessions, but just something to keep in mind before booking.
2. Do you provide prints?
This question is a question senior photographers get a LOT! Parents oftentimes want to have printed photos of their seniors, so it's important to be aware if the photographer does not provide those so you can make accommodations. I offer my seniors access to order select prints on their own through their gallery link and an optional personal ordering session with me to decide on their products.
3. Are you able to help with makeup and hair recommendations?
Senior photographers often have amazing relationships with local makeup and hairstylists so your senior photographer will be able to provide you with lots of options to fit your vision. Some photographers even include makeup in certain session packages, so keep your eye out to see if that's something your photographer offers.
4. How do I receive the final images?
Every photographer has a method of returning photos that is best for them. Photographers will give seniors access to either digital galleries or a physical copy in the form of a USB drive, or sometimes both. I personally offer senior photos through a password protected digital gallery link.
5. Do you travel for senior sessions? If so, what are your travel fees?
A very important question for seniors wanting a location in a different city to give their photos a unique look. If you are already set on a location out of town it will be beneficial to find out travel fees before booking a photographer to help weigh your options. Each photographer has slightly different travel fees and, in most cases, is an added fee separate from your session payment. Travel fees usually and may often include, gas (or flights if necessary), a rental car, food, and lodging if needed.
6. What is your reschedule and cancellation policy?
What if you get sick before your shoot? What if the weather is bad on the day of your senior session? Make sure you ask your senior photographer their cancellation and rescheduling policies, just in case something unavoidable comes up.
7. Can I see a full senior gallery?
It's important to see a full gallery before booking with your senior photographer because Instagram and other social media platforms will only show snippets of the photos we capture. It can be very helpful to see a full final gallery to get an idea of how your potential photographer shoots under differing lighting conditions, see other posing, and the range of photos they take.
8. Do you retouch images?
Retouching on an image just depends on the preference of the client. Most people want their photos at least spot checked, so make sure you check in with your photographer to see what is included in their retouching services if they include them in session and see if there is an extra fee.
9. How long does it take to receive the final gallery back?
Waiting for photos can sometimes feel like FOREVER because of how exciting it is! It's nice to know a time frame for the average time it usually takes to receive your final gallery back so that you know what to expect.
10. What does the booking process look like and how do payments work?
It's very important to know the booking process before setting anything in stone. Once you have asked all of the important questions, seen their previous work, read testimonials, then it's time to start the booking process with your photographer and secure your spot. If you need payment accommodations, such as a payment plan, make sure you double check with your photographer before signing anything or securing your spot with a down payment.
These are the most important questions to ask your senior photographer before securing a session with them. Knowing these things will help you choose your photographer based on the session and ideals that are convenient for you, helps you know what to expect, makes the process less intimidating, and helps you feel comforted in knowing that you know your photographer.
Have an amazing senior year!
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