Your guide to picking the best photographer
Whether you’re in Pittsburgh or anywhere else, there is no shortage of photographers in your area, so how do you pick the right one?
(Short answer: It might not be me)
Establishing a budget will narrow down the list a bit, but you’ll still have a sizable list. Looking at their photographic style is usually one of the main factors, but there are still a lot of photographers with similar styles unless someone really stands out in a niche like wet plate photography or has a fantasy editing style.
Loving a photographer’s work and being in your budget are two great characteristics, but most importantly, you need someone that you mesh well with. The most popular photographer in your area with your favorite style and in your price range could be the worst fit if you don’t have the same outlook or personality.
Some photographers are very professional and not as ‘fun’ while others try to make you feel like their best friend. There is no right or wrong depending on what you’re looking for.
I had a client tell me that one of the well known photographers in our area made her feel so uncomfortable because the photographer was shouting at her and telling her to be overly physical with her boyfriend. As much as she loves her boyfriend, she wasn’t into being so intimate and publicly affectionate and didn’t care for a photographer that boldly hyped them up. I am more casual and make sure to create a comfortable space with my clients, but that photographer has their own way of doing things and a client base that loves their energy.
The best photographer for you is one where you feel comfortable with them. If you aren’t comfortable or feeling heard, you won’t like the photos— no matter how talented or publicly-praised that photographer is.
Looking at the photographer’s website & social media is a good start. Pay attention to how they word things and the overall vibe that they give off. Looking at the photographer in behind-the-scenes videos, their Instagram stories, and any other content with themself in it will help you figure out if they are the right fit.
Don’t be afraid to ask them to set up a phone call to talk with them to see for yourself if they match up with what you are looking for!
There are so many talented photographers, so dig into who suits you best once you narrow down your list based on your budget and the style of photos you like.
Bonus tip!
If you are reaching out to multiple photographers, send the one(s) you aren’t going with an email saying that you appreciate their time, but they aren’t the best fit and you’re going with someone else. Photographers are people too and can get a little hurt or confused when someone reaches out and then ghosts us. This totally isn’t necessary, but just something you might want to consider if you’ve been going back and forth with multiple photographers.
