There’s no question that the photography industry has changed dramatically since the invention of DSLR cameras. Most of these cameras capture decent images, and are available for less than $1000. But after being hired to shoot a birthday party a few weeks ago, and seeing the equipment and level of experience of the other “photographer” that was hired, I had to write this blog. Consumers need to understand the difference between a professional who invests time, effort, and commitment to constant improvement, and a guy with a camera trying to pass for a photographer. I approached the lady taking pictures at the birthday party to make small talk and exchange business cards; she did not have a business card, nor did she have a website. This should be an immediate indication to anyone looking to hire a photographer, that the person they’re considering is not serious about what they do. Photos chronicle the history of your life, so the hiring of a photographer should not be taken lightly. Here are three quick tips to help you choose a photographer for your business or event:
- Review their portfolio – All professional photographers have an online portfolio like this, or published work that’s easily accessible.
- Ask about their equipment – My instrument of choice is the Canon 5D MarkII. The equipment used on a shoot can be the difference between average looking pictures, and spectacular images.
- Talk to them about their experience – Engaging your photographer on facebook or twitter not only reveals their level of expertise, but also tells you a little bit about his or her personality.
For more information, visit us online at ReelChord.com