How to Choose the Perfect Photographer for Your Style Event: Essential Tips & Best Practices
These days, anyone with a smartphone can take a good photo. But when it comes to capturing the best moments of your style events, it's best to call in a professional. Your team should be focused on engaging with your attendees and exceeding their expectations, so use these tips below to find the right photographer for your next event.
Do Your Research
To start, tap into your network to find local photographers. Use your social channels to ask your recommendations or dive into Instagram hashtags to discover photographers with the right style for your event. For example, if you're in Seattle, use hashtags like #seattlephotography, #seattlefashion, or #seattlestyle.
It can also be helpful to use Google Sheets to create a list of potential photographers for future events, which will save you time when planning down the line.
Once you've narrowed down your options, reach out to each photographer individually via email to explore the possibility of working together.
Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Photographer
Before signing a contract, it's important to vet your photographer thoroughly. Be sure to ask the following questions to ensure they are the right fit for your event:
How much experience do you have?
Have you ever taken professional photos for an event similar to ours?
Can you send me at least two client references?
What is your rate? (include line items like mileage/travel expenses, setup, an assistant, and editing)
The Photographer Agreement
Once you've chosen a photographer, it's time to formalize your collaboration with a photographer agreement. Here are some key items to include to ensure both parties are clear on their responsibilities:
Payment Conditions and Schedule
Make sure to specify the payment terms and suggested amount per photographer, including reimbursement for parking or commute expenses.
Overview of Requirements
List the number of photographers required, designated photo areas (e.g., step and repeat, photo booth), and how photos will be used and credited.
Content Ownership
Clarify who will retain ownership of the photos and whether the photographer can use the content in their portfolio or social media.
Shot List
Provide a detailed list of what you'd like photographed, including examples of photography styles (a Pinterest board is a great tool for this).
Event Schedule
Be sure to include the time for the photographer to arrive, park, and leave, as well as any acceptable time for breaks.
Content Editing
Specify the editing terms, including the timeframe for deliverables and how they will be delivered.
Quick Do's and Don'ts
DO
Confirm your photographer(s) at least three weeks prior to the event
Consider having a backup photographer on standby, just in case
Pay your photographer with money — "exposure" is not a valid form of currency
Check in with your photographer(s) occasionally during the event to make sure they have a chance to take a break or eat.
DON'T
Assume the photographer knows when to arrive and leave. Include these terms in the photographer agreement.
Forget to give credit on all future print and digital marketing materials. Tag the photographer on all social media posts regarding the event.
Feel obligated to use the same photographer for multiple events.
Comment Below
Share the Instagram profiles and websites of any talented photographers/videographers you've worked with or hope to work with in the future!
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