Overwhelmed with Options? Here’s How to Find Your Photographer
You asked for a photographer and—boom!—Now you have a flood of names.
Whether you're planning a wedding, branding session, or milestone portraits, getting tons of recommendations is both a blessing and a bit overwhelming.
Let’s make it easy.
Here’s a quick, two-round guide to help you compare photographers, narrow your list, and confidently choose the one that fits your style and your vibe.
Round 1: How to Narrow Down a Long List of Photographer Recommendations
Use these tips to create a shortlist of photographers you actually want to contact:
- Filter by location – Focus on photographers near you or who are willing to travel.
- Match the type of session – Look for someone who specializes in weddings, portraits, branding, etc.
- Review their website – A polished site is a good sign they’re legit and experienced.
- Identify your preferred style – Light and airy? Bold and colorful? Documentary-style? Know what you like.
- Ask to see full galleries – Don’t rely on just their Instagram highlight reel.
- See how they photograph people like you. – Look for diversity in body types, skin tones, ages, etc.
- Read up-to-date reviews – Look for comments about communication, professionalism, and final results.
- Make sure they specialize – Someone who “does it all” may not best fit your specific needs.
- Trust your gut – If their work makes you pause and smile, that’s a good sign.
- Ask for context – When someone recommends them, ask why they loved the experience.
Check for easy contact options – A clear contact page, form, or email = a smoother start.
Look at the starting price range – Make sure it’s in a range that feels comfortable or worth it.
Confirm they’re currently booking – Look for recent updates, blog posts, or email newsletters.
Note the extras you want – Do they offer albums, wall art, styling tips, makeup, or planning guides?
- You’ve reached out. Now it’s time to decide who you actually want to schedule a consultation with or book.
- Evaluate their communication – Are they clear, responsive, and helpful? Huge green flag.
- Ask about their process – A streamlined experience = less stress and better photos.
- Look for consistency – Do their galleries look great in all lighting and locations?
- Ask about turnaround time. – This matters if you’re on a deadline for prints or gifts.
- Find out how they guide you. – This is especially important if you're camera-shy or new to professional photos.
- Watch how they pose real clients – Do people look relaxed, confident, and natural?
- Learn what happens after the session – Will he/she help you choose favorites or just send a download link?
- Explore their products – Albums, wall art, digitals—what’s included, and what’s extra?
- Review the contract – Are the terms clear? Do they protect you both?
- Ask about backup plans – Gear fails, emergencies happen. A pro is ready.
- Book a consultation – You’ll know pretty quickly if there's a connection. Want help asking the right questions at your consult? Read: Hiring Your Dream Wedding Photographer
- Notice how they make you feel – Do you feel heard, seen, and hyped up?
- Prioritize connection over cost – The best results come from working with someone you trust.
- Choose the one who feels like a teammate – Not just a vendor or transaction.
- Don’t overthink it – When it feels right, go for it.
Round 2: How to Choose From Your Short List of Photographers
Final Tip: You’re not hiring someone to push a shutter button, you’re hiring a guide.
It’s easy to get caught up in comparing portfolios, prices, and styles until your brain’s in a fog. But here’s the truth. You’re not looking for the “best” photographer out there. You’re looking for someone who understands your vision, makes things easy, and delivers photos you’ll love forever. Once you find that person, you can stop scrolling and start getting excited.
Looking for an experienced photographer who’s fun, responsive, and makes the whole process feel easy (with amazing photos at the end)?
