How to Hire the Right Photographer for Your Style Event

These days, anyone with a smartphone can take a good photo. But when it comes to capturing the best moments of your style events, it’s best to call in a professional. Your team should be focused on engaging with your attendees and exceeding their expectations, so use these tips below to find the right photographer for your next event.

Do Your Research

• Use your social channels to ask for photographer recommendations

• Use hashtags on Instagram to find local photographers (examples include #seattlephotography, #seattlefashion, #seattlestyle)

• Use Google Sheets to create a list of photographers that may be right for future events

• Reach out to each photographer individually via email about collaborating with you

Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Photographer

• How much experience do you have?

• Have you ever taken professional photos for an event similar to ours?

• Can you send me at least two client references?

• What is your rate? (include line items like mileage/travel expenses, setup, an assistant, and editing)

The Photographer Agreement

Make sure the following items are included in your photographer agreements so both parties understand what responsibilities are included.

Payment Conditions and Schedule

• Suggested amount per photographer

• Reimbursement on parking or commute to/from the event (mileage, tolls, etc.)

• Meals

Overview of Requirements

• Number of photographers designated photo areas (step and repeat, photo booth, etc.)

• Explain how photos will be used and how credit will be displayed

Content Ownership

• Who will retain ownership of the photos/videos

• Photographer use of the content on their portfolio and social channels, no use in ads except for specified brands

Shot List

• What to take photos of

• Examples of photography style (a Pinterest board can be helpful for this)

Event Schedule

• When to arrive

• Where to park/best commute options

• Acceptable time to leave

Content Editing

• Photo and video editing terms

• Timeframe on deliverables and how to deliver them

Quick Do’s and Don’ts

• DO confirm your photographer(s) at least three weeks prior to your event.

• DO consider having a backup photographer on standby, just in case.

• DO pay your photographer with money. “Exposure” is not a valid form of currency.

• DO check in with your photographer(s) occasionally during the event to make sure they have a chance to take a break or eat.

• DON’T assume the photographer knows when to arrive and leave. Include these terms in the photographer agreement.

• DON’T forget to give credit on all future print and digital marketing materials. In addition to paying the photographer(s), make sure they are tagged on all social media posts regarding the event.

• DON’T feel obligated to use the same photographer for multiple events.

Comment Below

Share the Instagram profiles and websites of any talented photographers/videographers you’ve worked with or hope to work with in the future.

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