There are many good photographers in any market. Although the images may look appealing on the surface and meet your standards for visual quality, the details can come back to bite.
We have spent a lifetime in this industry and are familiar with all the problems you might face. Here are our 7 “must-ask” questions before hiring your next commercial photographer.
What are my usage rights? Are there any restrictions on how these photos can be used?
You may not be able to use the images photographers have taken for a specific time or in certain situations. Depending on your market, purchasing from certain photographers may limit your usage rights to one to five years. Or it could be based on how the photographer intends to distribute the images (web usage only or local usage, regional usage). Unlimited rights can be expensive, and it is not uncommon for a photographer to request a copyright release. These rights should be included in a photographer’s contract and bid.
Pro tip: Ask your photographer to explain your usage rights clearly. You may not be getting the usage rights you require at the quoted price. It could cost you more in the long term if it doesn’t.
Can you provide at least three references for this type of photography?
Photographers trying to get into the photography market may have images they took for personal growth. Commercial photographers need to have experience in the heat. Shooting for your portfolio and working with clients or art directors are very different. Experienced photographers should be able to refer to three or more people who can testify to their ability to think on their feet.
Tip: Not all photography is the same. You should do your best to complete the job right the first time, even if it costs more. Although a new photographer might be cheaper, you will still get the best quality images. ).
What price do you assign to your job?
Commercial photographers usually submit a written bid for every project they quote to a client. The estimate should include all fees, assisting expenses, post-production and equipment rental fees (if applicable), backgrounds, props and copyright information. It also must include payment terms. Commercial photographers often submit a contract to clients along with a bid. It includes cancellation policies, payment terms, and usage fees. The contract and the bid may be one document or separate documents.
Pro tip: Look beyond the “bottom line.” Although a custom photography quote might seem too expensive, always consider what you will get for the price. You can save money by choosing the lowest quote, but compare it to other quotes to ensure you get the best value.
What percentage of post-production was used on images in your portfolio.
Photoshop is amazing, trust me. Almost every photographer uses it on every image they deliver to clients and images in their portfolio. It and similar software add a strong finishing touch to any image and enhance the natural talent of the photographer. Some might use it to cover up for poor techniques, or worse, hidden fees could be added to your Photoshop work price, even though you believed the quality samples were straight from the camera.
Pro tip: Ask your photographer to explain the post-production process for an image you like from their portfolio. This is a great way to get attention and expose Photoshop work.
What is the turnaround time for images once we’re done with shooting?
We repeatedly hear from prospective clients that photographers take too long to deliver files after a shoot. This question will allow you to know the average turn time of your photographer and if they are willing to rush their process to meet your deadline. It will allow you to plan your job well in advance to meet deadlines and keep your budget in check.
Pro tip: Be sure to discuss a timeline with potential photographers to communicate all expectations. You should expect photographers to take extra time if you need certain image manipulation or retouching.
Does insurance cover you?
This question is what separates the men and the boys. Seriously. Photographers often bring their equipment and crew to the job. Sometimes, projects occur on a construction site or within an industrial setting where liability is high. Sometimes, the lighting equipment a photographer uses is too small and shortens the entire building. As qualified photographers, they will have both a legal and commercial policy.
Pro tip: Find out about potential photographers’ onsite and offsite backups for your digital images. This acts as “insurance” for your digital images in case of data corruption or catastrophe.
Are you looking for art direction?
Commercial photography is all about collaboration. Collaboration is a great way to ensure that clients and photographers are happy with the final result. Let’s face the truth, and everyone is busy. Sometimes, you can’t approve every shot that the photographer is shooting. A photographer who can see your vision and take it to the next level is essential.
Pro tip: Make sure your photographer makes notes during sales calls or pre-production meetings about your vision. Ask whether they will charge extra to have a client representative present on the set or if they can send you images while they are shooting. These little details can make your photography experience even more enjoyable.
