5 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Photographer
By Michael Romero Studio
Hiring a photographer isn’t just about finding someone with a nice camera—it’s about choosing someone who can understand your vision, make you feel at ease, and deliver photos you’ll treasure for years. Whether it’s for a branding session, a portrait, or a creative editorial, the right photographer can elevate the entire experience.
Before you book, here are 5 important questions you should always ask a photographer—and why they matter.
1. What’s Your Style—and Does It Match What I’m Looking For?
Photographers have unique approaches to lighting, posing, editing, and storytelling. Some lean moody and dramatic; others aim for light and airy. Some are natural light purists, while others embrace studio setups.
📸 Ask to see full galleries, not just Instagram highlights. Make sure their visual language speaks to yours. At Michael Romero Studio, I focus on timeless, emotionally-driven imagery—visuals that feel personal, cinematic, and refined.
2. How Do You Help Clients Feel Comfortable in Front of the Camera?
Feeling awkward on camera is normal. The best photographers know how to guide you, break the tension, and capture real connection—not stiff, forced poses.
💬 Ask how they direct sessions. Do they offer gentle prompts? Music? Candid in-between shots? My approach involves movement, conversation, and subtle cues that allow your natural energy to shine through.
3. What’s Included in Your Packages?
Photography packages can vary wildly. Some include only digital files, others offer prints or albums. It’s important to understand exactly what you’re getting—and what costs extra.
💡 Ask about turnaround time, editing, print rights, and retouching. Transparency matters. I always break down what's included in my sessions up front so there are no surprises.
4. Can You Tell Me About Your Process—from Booking to Delivery?
A smooth experience matters just as much as beautiful photos. From initial inquiry to gallery delivery, you want a photographer who’s organized, communicative, and professional.
📅 Ask what the timeline looks like, what’s expected of you, and how they’ll keep you updated. I personally walk clients through the process step by step—from wardrobe tips to shot planning—so the session feels easy and intentional.
5. What Sets You Apart from Other Photographers?
This question gives photographers a chance to share what they love most about their work and what makes their approach unique.
💭 Look for passion, clarity, and connection. For me, it’s about creating images that don’t just look good—they feel like you. My goal is always to capture something real, something you’ll recognize as both art and truth.
Final Thoughts
A great photography session is more than just showing up and smiling—it’s a collaboration, a trust, and an investment. Asking the right questions helps ensure you’re not just hiring a photographer—you’re choosing someone who truly gets you.
And if you’re looking for photos that feel effortless, soulful, and completely unique to you… you’re in the right place.
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Ready to book or still have questions? Let’s talk. I’d love to hear what story you want to tell through your images.
