Dear Olivia, How Do I Book A Photoshoot?
So, you're thinking about having some photos taken? Maybe you need new portraits? Maybe you really want to have some professional images taken of you and your fiancé? Maybe you're looking for a wedding photographer? Maybe your brand needs some new images to advertise for the summer of 2017? Well, whatever the reason may be, you need to know how to go about booking that shoot!
Whether you're looking to book me (Oh hey! Email me!) or another photographer, you might want to know the proper way to go about actually getting in touch and making that booking. So here's some help with that!
Find A Way To Contact ThemMight sound obvious, but the first step is making an initial email. If you've found them on Instagram, there could be a "Contact" button, or if not, there should be an email address in their bio. If not, try the link to their website, and head to the contact page. Most photographers have a contact page which includes a quick and easy contact form which you can fill in right then and there!
What to Include In The Email?Want to speed the process up? Get specific about what you're after! If you want some headshots, mention that, and maybe attach some examples of things you like. This helps the photographer know what style you're after, and whether or not they think they'll be able to deliver what you want. If you have a deadline for your images (ie. your sending out save the dates for your wedding and really want some cute photos of you and your fiancé for them), try to get that info in there too. This means your photographer will be able to check their diary, and let you know if they have any availability before you need your images done!
What happens next?Once you've found a date that works for both you and your photographer, you'll most likely get a digital contract sent to you to sign. This is pretty much an industry standard, and is simply in place to protect your photographer. Once thats signed, your date is secure, and all you'll have to do is get excited about your photoshoot day!
What If The Photographer You Want Can't Do It?Maybe they can't meet your deadline, maybe they don't feel they can deliver what you want, or maybe they're just fully booked! Either way, in most cases they'll be able to refer you to someone else who will be able to help you. Photographers always have a solid list of friends and photographers they work with who will be able to give you the quality you're after; so don't be too worried if you don't get the photographer you originally had your heart set on!
There you go, I hope that was helpful. If you have any more questions, please feel free to pop them in the comment section below and I'll get back to you. I'll be doing plenty more informative posts like this throughout the year, so stay tuned for more!
