The Dating Game of Choosing Your Photographer

At my Seattle area photography studio, one thing that surprises some of my clients is how much time I dedicate to them before their photo shoot even takes place. Usually, we’ll chat even before booking to make sure we’re a great fit. Once booked we do a full in-home or virtual consultation to spend time planning your perfect photo shoot. The reason for all of this is that I’ve seen firsthand just how important it is to find the right fit between a photographer and a client. In fact, for several reasons, choosing a photographer is a lot like dating!

Find Your “Type”

In the same way that a lot of singles have a type, whether they gravitate toward athletes, artistic people, or career-minded people, everyone has a “type” when it comes to photography too. Each photographer has a different artistic style, both in their shooting styles and their editing styles. And just like it’s never a good idea to go into a relationship expecting the person to change, you don’t want to hire a photographer and expect them to do a style that’s not theirs.

For example, I’m all about the visual drama in my photos - I'm not a light and airy photographer. I love some good shadows and contrast. I love bold rich colors and golden hour sunsets. My studio is not a white-out studio, I embrace dramatic shadows. So when you’re looking for a photographer, choose someone whose portfolio has the style you want for your portraits.

Look for Compatibility

A lot of people get nervous before a photo shoot, and that’s because it’s a really personal experience. This is why it’s so important to hire a photographer whose personality and energy are the right fit for you! As you’re in touch with a photographer in your initial inquiry, pay attention to whether or not we seem to be understanding each other and communicating smoothly. Are we actively listening to each other? Do you feel supported during the process? Do you feel like the photographer understands your vision and are they making you feel comfortable and excited for your session?

All of this impacts the overall experience for you as a client, and giving you beautiful photos with a positive experience is my top priority! So many of my clients keep coming back to me time and time again because of the experience I provide and how I make them feel throughout the process.

Think About Your Future

Singles look for someone they can have a sustained relationship with in the future, and you should want the same thing in your photographer. Choose a photographer that you can go back to for many of your life’s key milestone portraits, from engagement to maternity to newborn and even boudoir photos. With each session, you’ll strengthen your relationship with the photographer so that the next session will be even smoother and more fun. Eventually, your photo shoots will just feel like a fun reunion with an old friend!

Are We a Good Fit? Hit Me Up?

I might be long out of the dating game but I know very well how to tell if I’m compatible with a new client. Reach out to Jaimié Birtel Photography and let’s see if we’re a match for your next photo shoot!