Why Should I Know My Photographer?
Even though strangers connect all the time, it's a whole lot easier to get your photo taken by someone you know rather than someone you know literally nothing about. You don't need to be besties, but trust me when I tell you that you need to know your photographer well enough that you trust him or her enough to only get your good angles.
With that being said, I've created a list of the 3 most important things you should know about your photographer. The whole process of scheduling your photos, figuring out what to wear, and convincing yourself that all the stress will be worth it is a lot, so let me take a load off of your shoulders with this list.
1. Know Your Photographer's Style and if it Resonates With You
We're in Utah, and quite literally everyone has a friend, family friend, neighbor, family member, etc. that's a photographer. That's great that we all know a photographer, but do we like the work of the photographer we know?
When I say photographer's style, here's what I mean:
What temperature are the photos?
Are they warm? Are they cold? Do you like the temperature as it is?
What lighting are most of the photos taken in?
Remember, if your skin tone is fair/light, do NOT go with a photographer that shoots in harsh lighting. You will look washed out!
What kind of scenery are most of the photos taken in?
If your photographer clearly loves red rocks or dirt roads and you hate red rocks and dirt roads, do NOT use this photographer. It's so important that you use a photographer that likes what you like and doesn't like what you don't like. As a photographer with 5 years of portrait photography experience, I know you need to trust me on this!
2. Your Photographer is NOT Going to Change Their Editing Style for You
As amazing and wonderful as you are, your photographer has likely spent a really long time creating the right photography aesthetic for themself. And your photographer is probably really proud (and should be) of their aesthetic and all the work they put into getting it perfect,
Even if you have this really cool idea for this certain look or edit but it looks completely opposite from what your photographer has ever done, you're not with the right photographer. Like I said earlier, choosing the photographer that resonates with you the most really is the top most important part of the whole process.
3. If You Don't Like How the Photographer Poses Clients, Choose a Different Photographer!
It's really as simple as that. If you don't like certain posing, do NOT choose a photographer that poses all of their clients that way! I PROMISE you that you won't like how your photos will turn out. After 5 years in the field, you can trust me on this!
Another really important thing to remember is that if you feel awkward or uncomfortable in certain poses, you're probably going to look awkward or uncomfortable. And I'm saying that with all the love and kindness in my heart. I also want you to love your photos!
What Should I Do if I Don't Want to Use my Photographer Anymore?
It's totally fine to change your mind about the photographer you want to use for your photos. Just don't ghost your photographer. That's not very chill. Saying no is scary, I get it, I promise you that you can send a nice hey girly text. Here's what I suggest you say to the photographer to let them know you changed your mind but don't want it to be awkward:
And for the love of everyone on this planet, do NOT cancel within 24 hours of the shoot. This is inconsiderate of your photographer's time. And you'll likely have to pay the photographer's cancellation fee.
Try Saying
Hey (name), thank you so much for trying to fit me/us in with your busy schedule! I know life is crazy, so I really appreciate your efforts. I decided it's not best for me/us right now to go through with the photo session. I'm so sorry if this creates any chaos for you. You are a talented photographer & I wish you the best this crazy season!
How Do I Find Another Photographer?
In the oversaturated southern Utah photographer market, finding another photographer probably seems hard. Which makes sense. But hopefully you take into consideration what I think are the most important things you should know about your photographer.
If you don't really know what you want your photo session to be, let a girl (me) know. Let's create your dream photo session together. Connect with me by going to the contact page, shooting me an email, or sending me a DM on any of my socials. I can't wait to create with you.
