Tips for hiring a professional photographer

How do you choose the right professional photographer and photographic studio for you? At Alise Black Studios we have combined our 40 years' knowledge of the photographic industry to give you some of the best tips for hiring a professional photographer! 1. Most importantly do you like the professional photography shown to you via a wide range of sample images?

This is the key step to finding the right photographer to suit you. If you look at the professional photographer's vast collection of images, does it create a sense of personal style and quality? Are you emotionally connected to any images? Do you find the work beautiful or cool, and does it have that 'wow' factor?

2. How do you decipher who is a professional photographer worth spending your hard earned money with and who is an amateur, overpricing their work?

The photographic industry is an unregulated industry so buyer beware. There are tens of thousands of photographers listed and anyone who owns and operates a camera can be considered a photographer - I even consider my 7 year old niece a great photographer, however I wouldn't hire her to do a professional photography shoot for me. Amateurs have basic levels of training, if any at all. Professionals have studied their craft for 2-4 years through specialised Professional Photography courses at TAFE or University and generally spend years working with other pro photographers to gain experience and knowledge.

3. Stay away from the gimmicks and tricks that have damaged this wonderful art form since the 80's!

During the 'glamour photography' rage in the 1980s, many photography companies set up tricks to gain clients, and unfortunately some of these 'tricks' still exist in some studios today - again, we caution that this is an unregulated industry. Large offers of exorbitant value are presented to the client as a perceived valued prize. The result is the client is blindsided by the final cost. Studios that operate this way lack transparency and give the industry a bad name by preying on the inexperience of a customer.

I am proud to say that during the course of my professional photography career, beginning in 1997 at the age of 17, I have always used a helpful price guide. Prior to any private session, the clients of Alise Black Studios are given a price list with payment options. This is critical when selecting a professional photography service. Whilst you may not know how much you will invest, at least you understand through the public price guide, your expectation of the image price/s and payment options. We strongly caution any consumer against walking blindly into any photography experience without a spend expectation and guide.

4. When working with a photographic studio, check who your photographer is going to be!

When viewing photography studio galleries, it is easy to get caught up in viewing the work and being excited about the amazing experience you are going to have. Make sure you know whose work you are looking at when you are choosing the photography company. Are you going to see that person or their amateur assistant? What is the quality of the work of that particular artist? Professional photography is an art form that is subjective - what may appeal to one, may not to another. A professional photographer's 'style' is as unique as the imagery they create!

5. If hiring commercially, what camera equipment is the professional photographer using?

Ensure you receive a full breakdown of items including terms and conditions to allow for no budget blowouts.  

6. Does the photographer have public testimonials, not just a few friends commenting about them (a range of social media sites and review sites) are these new or old? Does it look like the reviews were all posted by bots?

Older testimonials will show history, especially if they are consistent in either praise or negative reviews. Whilst it is normal for a business to have at least one or two negative reviews, read how the review was responded to. Was it a response that was reasonable? Was the client’s request reasonable? Has the photographer been around a while? What is the ratio of positive to negative reviews? Keep in mind that reviews have only been prominent in recent years... Read our genuine testimonials here  

7. Does the professional photographer have a studio? Does it meet your requirements?

Check the professional photographer has a reputable place of business with an Australian Business Name and number. No? Then move on and keep looking. Our premier studio in Sydney is a stunning professional, clean space.  

8. Does the studio employ a friendly team? Do they make you feel comfortable from the first contact?

Our management team at Alise Black Studios have worked together for more than 10 years. We offer a personalised, professional service that's friendly and relaxed.

9. Like, love, appreciate the quality of the work!

This is essential to ensuring your photography shoot is of the same quality. I hope these little tips help you navigate the world of professional photography. It is one that I am very proud to be a part of. Wishing you the very best in life, love and happiness. We hope to see you at the studio soon! Warmest,

Alise

Alise Black Professional Photographer | HMUA | Designer