When there’s a special event or moment in your life that you want to remember, it’s only natural to take pictures and videos. However, if you’re looking for the best results, you need to go with a professional photographer. 

While it’s true that new technology installed in smartphones and cameras make it easier for the average person to take decent photos, you’ll never get the high-end results that professional photographers offer. They spend years mastering equipment and editing software to provide their clients with the most amazing images. 

The only question is, how do you find the best Auckland photographer for your needs? Not sure where to begin? Keep reading for everything you need to consider before hiring photographers.

Find Reviews from Previous Customers

First, do a quick search online to find Auckland photographers in your area. Check out their websites and social media pages to find customer references and reviews. See what people have to say about their experience working with the photographer. 

If you can’t find reviews and testimonials on their website, Google the photographer/company name and “reviews.” You must find out what other people say about their services. 

Was the photographer easy to work with? Did they provide their expertise and insight while allowing the client to express their needs? How did the photos turn out?

Check Out Their Portfolio

They say a picture is worth 1,000 words. This cliche is even more appropriate when it comes to choosing the right Auckland photographer. As such, search the photographer’s website and social media pages to see examples of their work.

You need to get a good idea of their style and capabilities. Pay special attention to the photos that fall within the category of your needs. For example, if you’re looking for pregnancy photography or newborn photography, find images of similar clients. 

However, keep in mind that certain styles and poses might be a reflection of the client’s preferences, not the photographer’s individual style.

Consider Experience and Expertise

Next, when looking for an Auckland photographer, ask about their experience, particularly in the areas of photography relevant to the pictures you want to be taken. Ask how long they’ve been a professional photographer. How many years of experience do they have?

If you can’t find relevant photos on their website or social media page, ask if they’ve taken photos similar to the ones you’re requesting. This is especially important if they’re going to be managing bigger events, like taking family photos, festivals photos, or photos at parties.

When hiring wedding photographers, ask how many other weddings they’ve done. Wedding photos are incredibly important for immortalising the bride and groom’s special day. This is not an area where you want to make any poor decisions. 

Ask About Pricing

Before making your choice, comparing photographer fees is essential. While you shouldn’t skimp while hiring a photographer for a special event or occasion, you also shouldn’t overpay for their services. 

Reach out to the various Auckland photographers to get a better understanding of their pricing. However, you must also consider the other topics covered in this article. 

Hiring the cheapest services available is rarely a good idea. For example, the cheapest photographer might have low-quality photos, poor customer service, unprofessionalism, etc.

The right photographer will charge a fair price based on their experience and capabilities. They’ll also know how to conduct themselves during your event, whether it’s a wedding, pregnancy photography shoot, or party.

Find Out About Availability

One of the most important things to consider is whether or not the photographer will be available for your event. If you’re scheduling newborn photography or taking family photos, your schedule might be more flexible. 

However, if you need an Auckland photographer for a specific event, you’ll likely need them to meet your scheduling needs. Are they available for the day and time you need them? Will they guarantee that they will be there on time, ready to go?

The last thing you need at a wedding is a photographer who shows up late. In fact, they should be there before everyone so they can set up, assess the scene, and find the best angles.

Sit Down for a Consultation

No matter what kind of photoshoot you’re looking for, you need to find a photographer whom you feel comfortable working with. This is especially important for intimate events like wedding photography, pregnancy photography, family photos, romantic photos, etc.

Ask the photographers you’re considering hiring if they will meet you to discuss the photos you want. Tell them what you’re looking for and ask them how they would handle the shoot. As discussing the details of your photoshoot, decide if they are someone with whom you feel comfortable taking your photos.

Ask About Editing Options

Depending on your preferred style and the event you want to be photographed, you might also want to ask about the photographer’s editing capabilities. Most of the modern images we see on websites and social media have been edited to some degree or another. 

Some edits are simple changes in the filter, colouring, and lighting. In-depth edits can include removing and adding scenery, changing the sky, removing blemishes, and more. 

If you’re looking for surreal photos, ask if it’s something the photographer is capable of creating. If you want something specific and/or complicated, ask to see a sample of their work to provide evidence of their skills. 

Ask About Satisfaction Guarantees and Service Contracts

Finally, before hiring an Auckland photographer, find out if they offer any kind of customer satisfaction guarantee. What happens if you’re completely dissatisfied with the photos? What happens if the photographer shows up late or not at all?

Will they offer a money-back guarantee or significant discounts? How do they handle disputes and other issues? Is it all covered in a written contract?

Are You Looking for an Auckland Photographer?

As you can see, there’s a lot that goes into choosing the right Auckland photographer for your event. I recommend starting your search early so you have plenty of time to wade through your options. 

Check out some of my work with family photos and pregnancy shoots to get a better idea of what I have to offer. 

Contact me today to set up an appointment or visit me at my beautiful studio. I would love to work with you to help immortalise your special event.