How to Pick the Right Photographer for You

There are so many photographers out there, it can feel daunting trying to narrow down the right fit for your needs. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when looking for a photographer for your next photo session on Oahu.

1) Make sure you like their style

Photographers spend years honing their photography style and signature look; it’s not something that can be changed from session to session. So, if you like dark, moody images, you wouldn’t want to book a photographer who showcases light, bright photos on their website or socials. Similarly, if all of the art on your walls is bright and colorful, you’ll want to make sure to find a photographer who has similar colors showcased.

(Pro tip: use your photographer’s former sessions to get ideas for what colors to wear! As mentioned in this post, what colors you wear make a huge impact on the final image).

In addition to seeing if the photographer edits in colors you like, make sure they’re the right style in terms of posed vs candid. If your priority is images where everyone is looking at the camera, then you wouldn’t be served best by a photographer who highlights only in-the-moment images where no one is looking. For newborn photo sessions with StephanieH Photography, I’ll start our session with a few posed images and then we’ll spend the majority of the time getting the intimate and interactive, candid shots - which is why I show candids as the majority of examples of my work.

2) What is the photographer’s specialty?

Not all photo sessions are created equal. Just because someone can photograph a family session on the beach, does not mean they’re equipped to handle a wedding, for example. Indoor newborn sessions are wildly different than any other style, too, as they often require specialized lights and posing. Some photographers choose to niche down into serving one photography group, while others - like me! - specialize in a few different types. Either one is fine as long as they have lots of examples of their work that shows off their experience. You’ll want to look for more than just a few images from the photographer’s sessions, too. This is why I love showing collages of a session - so clients can get a feel for the whole gallery.

(Pro tip: If you’re on the fence, feel free to ask the photographer to share a full gallery! A true professional will be happy to accommodate this request.)

Keep in mind, too, that websites and social media are highlight reels of a photographer’s BEST work. Read reviews and make sure you connect with what is mentioned. If there are 20 reviews that mention a fun light-hearted session, but you’re hoping for hot and steamy pics, you may want to keep searching for a better match.

3) Are they legal?

Okay - here’s where I’ll hop on my soapbox for a second. Frankly, if a photographer has chosen to operate a legal business, that means they take their work, and YOU, seriously. This isn’t a side-hustle or fun hobby to play with in their extra time while their real focus is elsewhere. Being a legal business means typically means they’ve gone the extra step to not only do their duty to pay taxes, but also get insurance to protect YOU should anything happen.

Make sure you’ve been offered a contract to sign, too, as this sets clear expectations for both the client and photographer.

So, is there anything else you’d add to this list? What helps you decide if a photographer is right for you?

Feel free to send me a message through the Inquire form above if you think we’d be a good fit!