Chances are that when you approach a photographer about an assignment or session, you have a good idea of what you may want. I can't speak for other photographers, but when someone asks me (usually via e-mail or message) what it costs for a session, I usually need more information. For example:
a) The number of people in the photograph and their ages.
b) Are they looking for an outdoor or remote session on location or an in-studio session?
If you have a specific location in mind, let us know.
c) What is the purpose and/or theme of the photograph? In other words, how do you plan to use the photo? Is it a holiday family photo? A formal portrait? A corporate portrait?If you have any images that will help convey a sense of what you're looking for, I usually find that very helpful.
d) Are you going to also purchase prints or do you just need digital files and/or negatives?
e) Sharing a budget and specific dates or a range of dates of when you would like the session to take place is also very important. Also, if you need your files or negatives or photos by a certain date, that's also important information to share with your photographer.
This assumes that you have already conducted a search and found photographers whose work you like. If at all possible, make sure that you speak with the photographer directly before you come to an agreement. These tips are for portraits only. Events such as weddings and corporate events require a lot more detail. I hope you find these tips helpful. Communicating clearly and sharing your vision and expectations with your photographer is a good thing.
Please feel free to contact me directly with any questions or comments:
E-Mail: Lou@LouManso.com T. 1.858.405.5454