When you’re organizing an event, you probably want the experience to be captured in the best way possible. This way, you can always look back at that one special day. In this case, you need to hire an event photographer who does this job for you while you are busy making sure everything goes according to plan. But how do you choose the right event photographer? Here are some tips to help you out:
1. Recommendations for the right event photographer
You are probably not the only one in your network who needs or needed an event photographer, so reach out to your inner circle and you will probably get some good recommendations. But keep in mind that if you ask for recommendations on social media you can get overwhelmed by direct messages and requests from a lot of photographers. So it's probably better to reach out to a personal friend who has experience in working with photographers or working at events.
2. Check out the portfolio of the event photographer
Always make sure to check out the portfolio of the event photographer you’d like to hire to see if you’re feeling the style of photography he/she is presenting. Most photographers have their own website and use Instagram to showcase their best photos.
3. Check what kind of experience the event photographer has before hiring
Not all events are the same, so make sure you pick the photographer with the right experience for your type of event. If you’re in need of a photographer for a wedding, you will search for wedding photographers. If you’re in need of a photographer for a corporate event, you will search for corporate event photographers.
4. Description of your event
Give a short and detailed description of what you would like. This way it’s easier for the event photographer to understand your needs. You can write down all the important things you need, so the photographer knows what’s important from the start. Also think about questions the photographer might ask you. Make sure you can answer his questions, so the photographer gets a good idea of the job. This way you will help the photographer to help you.
5. Check your budget before you start hiring an event photographer
It’s good to know beforehand what budget is available for hiring an event photographer. There are many photographers and many different prices. Most of the times, the higher the price of a photographer, the more experience he has. But make sure to have checked off tip 1 and 2 of you checklist before you can trust that statement.
6. Delivery of the end product
Discuss how the photos will be delivered and how you are going to use them. It makes a difference whether you only need photos to post on Social Media or whether you need a photo to be printed on a big banner. Some photographers only use Wetransfer to transfer you the files. Others deliver the photos in a password protected online album for you, some even make a photo book to make sure your memories are also available offline.
7. Personality of the photographer
Find someone who is professional, polite and is friendly to you. This way you will enjoy working with each other more. It's always smart to set up a call or in some cases a face to face meeting before you make your decision. Especially in case of a wedding, because the photographer is going to be part of this special day in your life.
Want to know more about my photography? Check out my business video or feel free to look around more on my website.
Info about the author
Hi, my name is Michiel Ton. I am a professional Business and event photographer from the Netherlands with loads of experience in covering business events and dance / music festivals. In addition to being a full time photographer, I am also a graduate as a teacher in social science. I have passion for creating unforgettable memories through my photography.
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