Don't forget to ask these questions when hiring a photographer

What are the questions you think to ask when hiring a photographer? Some of the most common questions might be:

• Are you free on this day?
• What do you charge?
• When will I receive the photos?

Photo by Angela Fortin Studio Photography

​Those are definitely important! But there are additional questions that will help you help them get the best photos possible - and deliver them efficiently, and to your specifications. Here are some to consider:

1. If there are specific photos you want: "Can I give you a list of photos to take?"
   Most photographers will answer "yes yes yes!" to this. What you're asking about is called a "shot list," which is usually due prior to the start of the shoot. Sometimes it's a loosely-defined list of photos to take; for example, at an event, a shot list might include decor, presenters, people chatting during cocktail hour, award winners with event host. Other times, the shot list is very specific; for example, at a wedding, a shot list could include parents of groom, parents of bride, siblings of bride, siblings of groom, cousins of bride and groom, etc. No matter what your needs are (specific or broad), a photographer will be happy to accommodate by following your shot list.
   
2. If you expect changes: "What happens if I need to change the date or time of the shoot?"
   You should absolutely ask photographers this prior to signing a contract. (Or perhaps read the details of the contract, because this information is often included there.) Photographers work in different ways, so be sure to know how this type of change is handled prior to agreeing to work together.
   
3. To confirm cost: "Are there any additional costs outside of what was proposed?"
   Personally, I include 100% of charges in my proposals, so clients are never shocked by any additions later on. Just be sure to ask if everything is included, especially things like parking charges, shoot venue charges, meals, and hotels/transportation for overnight expenses (if applicable).
4. If you think your project might go long: "What happens if there is scope creep?"
   "Scope creep" is a project management term that means a project is growing larger than originally anticipated. For an example, lets assume a photographer is charging a client based on time. Both client and photographer agreed that the shoot would likely take 3 hours, but instead it took 5. To avoid awkward conversations, there should be a plan in place, outlining cost of overtime, when overtime takes place, and if there's an updated timeline that affects when the client should expect to receive photos.
   
5. What about prints? "Are prints included in my proposal?"
   Photographers handle prints in so many different ways. Some photographers only provide digital images (where clients can download them and order their own prints from anywhere they like), other photographers don't give clients printing rights and expect them to buy prints directly from their website. Just be sure to ask lots of questions about how your photographer handles prints so that there aren't any surprises after the shoot.
   

What other questions have you asked photographers that really helped both of you? I'd love for you to share in the comments below!

Happy Friday!
Autumn