Choosing a Product Photographer
Choosing the right product photographer for your company’s needs is a bit like hiring a new employee. Most photographers excel at various specialties, be it portrait, landscape, or interaction shots. Photographers who shoot across all subject matters usually have their own distinct style and lighting techniques. Therefore when researching a photographer, find an individual or a company with strong experience in the areas that interest you the most.
Essential Tips
With the revolution in digital photography, it is now easier than ever for an amateur to pass themselves off as a professional. With the right camera equipment, discerning between the two is no easy task for a company to invest their time, energy, and money into a photographer. So, how do you choose the right photographer for the job?
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Insurance Coverage
A professional photographer or studio should have their insurance in place to avoid any destruction of property. Besides insurance is what separates the amateurs from the professionals, and it protects you, too. If someone trips of a light stand and hurts themselves, you, as the hiring business, may be responsible for the compensation and medical bills. Some venues won’t even allow a photographer in if they cannot show proof of insurance.
Coordination and Organization: More Important Than You Think
Sure, a professional photographer is an artist, and some artists don’t have a reputation for being completely organized. A professional, on the other hand, will be both coordinated and organized at all times. This includes a high level of organization when dealing with pricing, editing, and session scheduling. Your chosen photographer should offer a clear and straightforward picture of what you may expect from their work and the photo shoot.
Additionally, selecting a photographer who is familiar with your chosen location, or can learn the venue quickly, is a major factor. In choosing your location be sure to scout it ahead of time, perhaps even with your photographer. A professional will have a better eye for lighting, angles, and space for equipment.
Creativity and Problem-Solving
As an artist, a photographer should be adept at coming up with creative solutions to a problem, no matter what the issue may be. The ability to switch things up at the last moment, such as when a product shot simply isn’t working, is important. If you’re working with a model, can your photographer loosen them up to ensure the shot isn’t too strict or robotic? How about taking a stance and suggesting a new pose or staging adjustments? A bit of individuality is perfect. You never want your photographer to feel confined by too many rules or requirements. Let them flourish in their environment!
The Personal Factor
Sure, this is all business, but working with someone for a lengthy period requires you enjoy being around this individual. It is important that you like your photographer. They should present themselves as respectable and professional, not downright hostile or sarcastic, for example.
If you have the opportunity, sit down and speak with your photographer before the shoot is even scheduled. This will give you some insight into their personality and how they present themselves to a client. If they appear friendly, well-manner, or passionate, you know you have a winner on your hands.
Of course, at the same time, you cannot let their winning personality outshine their portfolio and abilities. You still require a professional who will get the job done and produce high-quality photographers for your products or business.
Making the Choice
Once you have considered all of the factors mentioned above and ensured the photographer meets your standards and requirements, it’s time to make the actual decision. Do not choose a product photography studio that will put you into a rut. Right now, perhaps you only want static imagery for your product catalog. In the future, as you expand your business, you may want more in-depth photographers. Thinking of the future in the world of business is just as important as thinking in the now.
Look beyond the upfront price tag of a professional photographer and focus more on what their imagery will do for your business.
