When selecting a photographer, you need to make sure that you are hiring someone who meets your needs. Consider asking photographers questions like the following:

• How would you characterize the style of your photography? Photojournalistic? Traditional? Whimsical?
  • You don’t want to hire someone and then discover that you don’t like the photographer’s style.

• Do you specialize in color or black-and-white photography?

• Could I see an album, perhaps one that includes all the photos of a shoot?
  • This will allow you to see the progression of a shoot, which is especially important for weddings and other events that involve a storytelling aspect.

• What’s your backup plan in case you become too ill to photograph that day?
  • It happens. So you don’t want to be left trying to plan another photography session if the photographer can’t make it (especially for events). Ask if they have another photographer who will back them up, etc.

• What additional services does your studio offer? Do you do framing, digital retouching, digital painting, etc.?

• Do you have any kind of photographic credentials? If so, how did you earn them?
  • Credentials usually mean that a person has successfully completed additional training, education, and/or reviews, ensuring a high level of quality.

• Do you offer design/portrait consultations before the actual shoot?
  
  • These consultations give photographers the chance to get to know your likes/dislikes, to see the rapport between you and your family, and to learn your vision of the photograph(s).

• Will you travel? How would that effect the price?
  • If you want a portrait taken elsewhere, this is an important question to ask.