5 Traits to Look for in a Professional Photographer

When you have a special occasion coming up, you’d like to commemorate the event with beautiful photographs that you can look back on for generations to come. When you need a photographer to help you with this, it’s not enough to simply Google photographers’ phone numbers and pick the first one that comes up. You want to make sure that you’re hiring a professional photographer that cares about delivering the best results possible to help you celebrate any big day.

You know that you need a photographer, but what else do you know? It helps to have an idea of what makes for a great professional photographer. No matter the reason for your recruitment of a photography expert, it’s worth taking the extra time to interview photographers and see how well they fit the 5 criteria below.

They Have an Eye for the Details

The big picture is important, sure, but the details matter just as much. Your photographer should be attentive to your surroundings and any other elements that will impact the final result. This relates to both the actual process of snapping high-quality professional photos as well as any edits that are made before the photos are delivered to you.

They are Creative

This might be obvious, but it needs to be said. The reason that people hire professional photographers is not only because they have the equipment for the job, but also because they know what makes for a great photograph. Their use of composition and lighting should enhance the images rather than detract from them, and it takes a creative eye to make that happen.

They’ve Got People Skills

You want to work with a photographer that is friendly, cooperative and has a good manner with clients. It’s tough to deal with photographers that aren’t great at forming a positive rapport with their clients, no matter how skilled they are with the lens. You’ll want to hire someone that can put you at ease and make you feel like your photography needs are in good hands.

Their Skills Extend Beyond the Camera

Professional photography can require quite a bit of equipment and editing software. It’s often not enough to walk into a photoshoot armed with only a handheld camera. Ensure that your photographer possesses and knows how to use the tools of the trade before committing to hiring them.

They Know the Law

An inexperienced or uneducated photographer could accidentally violate copyright laws or contracts that can land them – and possibly even their clients – into deep trouble. They need to know what the rules are to successfully operating as a professional photographer within the limits of the law.