How to Find the Best Professional Photographer in Ottawa, Canada
Googling “Photographers in Ottawa?” You’re in for an overwhelming number of search results. There are over 2,500 photographers in the Ontario area.
Picking the first photographer in the search results isn’t always the best idea.
Are you looking for a professional photographer in Ottawa? If so, read on and learn how to find the best one for your photography needs.
Narrow Your Search
Be clear about the type of photo shoot for which you’re hiring a professional photographer. When it comes to photography, there are many specializations. A few categories include:
- Landscape
- Wildlife, and outdoor
- Wedding
- Newborn and baby
- Fashion
- Portrait
- Sports
- Pets
- Events
- Photojournalist
- Real estate/architecture
- Food
When searching for a photographer, look for one that shoots the type of photos you want. If you want photos of your newborn, use a photographer specializing in newborns.
Ask for Referrals
Ask your friends if they’ve used a professional photographer in the last few months to a year. A good photographer works well with clients and gets the right photos. She’ll deliver the photos on time in a way that works for the client.
If your friends had a great experience, they’ll love to share. Likewise, if the experience was bad, you’ll avoid making the same mistake they did.
Look at the Portfolio
Take a look at the photographer’s website. Make sure the site is up to date. If it’s not, chances are the photographer isn’t a professional.
Make sure there are lots of examples in the portfolio. Is the color balance good? How about the exposure? If all the photos are from one event, it’s likely the photographer lacks experience.
Inexperienced doesn’t mean bad, but an experienced photographer can handle unexpected situations better.
Style Matters
Does the photographer’s style resonate with you? If not, move on to another photographer. Every photographer has his own style. Not everyone’s style meshes with yours.
Make sure you like the samples in the portfolio. Look for consistency. Do the photos seem too bright or too dark? Does it look like a style issue or a technical one? Keep looking for another photographer if the photos don’t “wow” you.
What’s in the Package
With the advent of digital photography, there are many ways a photographer delivers photos. Are they printing the photos for you? Are they sending digital files? What is included in their packages?
A professional photographer doesn’t have hidden fees and charges. Ask for all the costs up front so you’re not surprised later.
Deposit and Cancellation Policy
A photographer puts in many hours getting your photos. There’s the photo session, post-production editing, viewing, and more. Most photographers have a cancellation policy and most ask for a deposit.
Be aware of the cancellation policies before you pay a deposit.
Hiring a Professional Photographer
Hiring a professional photographer seems daunting. But take your time and do some research. Define your project and look for a photographer who understands your needs.
Is it a baby? Family photos? Use a baby or portrait photographer. Ask your friends for referrals. That’s often a great way to narrow the field.
Look at the photographer’s portfolio. Make sure you like the photographer’s style. Ask what’s in the package and the method of delivery. Make sure you’re comfortable with the deposit and cancellation policy.
Now you’re ready for professional photos! Book your appointment today.