If you find the thought of having a professional portrait daunting, let me talk you through it. If you follow my steps below, do your research and do some post-shoot preparation you will nail it.
Finding the right Photographer
If you look on-line for a Photographer, you might get overwhelmed as there are a lot of Togs out there. Be more specific with your search wording. If, for example, you want a baby photographer look for Newborn Studio Portraits in Cardiff (or the area you would be happy to travel to) you can also change the word studio for outdoor if you prefer a more nature led shoot. Newborn can be substituted for Family, Modelling, children, whatever it is you are looking for. That way Google should take you to a more direct search criteria and stop you scrolling mindlessly for hours and ultimately giving-up and feeling frustrated that you haven't found a Tog yet. Don't worry I have fallen down that rabbit hole on numerous occasions looking for the most simplest of things. Once you have found one that looks promising, check out their Portfolio. Most Photographers should have one on their website.
It is where they showcase their most recent work. Questions to ask yourself, can I
see myself in this setting? is this the style I want? and can I see this displayed on
my interior wall? if you answer 'yes' to these questions, you are on your way to getting the job done. Keep in mind their website shows their style, don't expect them to change their style to accommodate your ideas, you would be better off finding a Photographer that is offering what you want well, rather than changing
their style and giving you want you want badly. It's worth the investment.
Touching Base
Get in touch! If you like their work, drop them a line or give them a call. They won't bite! Making contact will help you establish a rapport. If you don't feel understood when chatting or messaging, move on, they are not right for you. Most Togs will have a Price List or a hint of what they are likely to charge on their website so asking for a full 'Price List' is a usual request. Mention the images that you like on their website. Also, check out an Offers Page or discounts for joining their mailing list.
Discounts are not always obvious and you can always unsubscribe afterwards if you don't find the content engaging.
Pre-shoot Preparation
Be prepared! know what you are wearing, how you are going to do your hair and make-up and what you need for the shoot. Do your shopping early, so you know you will receive the items on time or early enough to change them and rethink your outfit. I have had numerous clients turn up with new clothes only to find that they don't fit and we have to use clips or worse still, hide the fact they are not fastened up. If this does happen and it is completely unavoidable, bring a Plan B as a back-up.
Also speak to the Photographer. Some will have a basic wardrobe of items that you can use. All items that I have in my studio are thoroughly laundered after each shoot for hygiene reasons so don't be put off borrowing.
Finally the Shoot
You've done the prep, you've got your outfit, now the shoot. Do all the main time consuming things like make-up base and hair curing at home so when you arrive at the studio you only need to do a quick touch-up. If you're worried about creasing your clothes, most studios will have a changing area or restroom if you bring them with you. Before you begin most Photographers will talk you through what will happen and whilst you are chatting, will take a few test shots. It's hard not to be nervous but try to relax they know what they are doing. Any good Photographer will guide you on how to stand, where to look and will notice your best side. Don't be shy to tell them if you know what suits you when you do selfies. The Photographer should also be able to show you what they have shot on camera or on a screen.
If they don't, ask them, it's your shoot!
Good luck on choosing the right Photographer and pop-over to our Offers Page to see our latest spring offer :)
Comments