When I go out to eat, I don’t mess around.  If it’s a place I haven’t been before, I’m asking friends, checking the website and reading all the Yelp reviews.  Life it too short to pay for a bad meal!

And I would recommend treating photography the same way.  Do your research before you commit to a photographer.  Who wants to spend hundreds of dollars on an experience you hate or photos you don’t love!?

In the same way you’d research a hairstylist, restaurant or hotel, map out your plan to finding the best photographer (for you!).

My top 4 tips for choosing a photographer:

1.  Ask your friends.  This is the number one way I’d suggest finding pretty much any service.  Your friends will be honest with you.  And they know YOU.  They could tell you that they liked it, but they know you’re a bit more shy so you might not like that over-the-top super chatty photographer.
2. Read the reviews.  If your friends aren’t able to recommend a photographer because they haven’t used one, go straight to Yelp.  I’d caution against going straight for the first few Yelp ads, but browse down the list and see what stands out to you.
3. Go to their website.  Hopefully their site is set up to answer your questions and give you an idea of what the experience will be like.  The photographer’s website is their hand shake before meeting in person.
4. Know YOURSELF.  Be realistic with your expectations.  If your children are busy, don’t choose a studio photographer that specializes in posed images.  If you’re an introvert, don’t choose a photographer known for her zany personality.  The best photos happen when there’s a clear connection between the photographer and the client.