What Questions Should You Ask a Photographer Before Hiring for Your Photoshoot?
Hiring a photographer isn’t just about finding someone with a nice camera or a pretty portfolio. It’s about finding someone who understands the goal of the shoot, works well with your team, and can deliver the exact kind of images you need — on time, and in the right format. Whether you're booking brand photos, headshots, product images, or lifestyle content, asking the right questions upfront can save time, reduce miscommunication, and make sure you get the most out of your investment.
Here are the key questions to ask before signing the contract.
1. What’s your experience with this type of shoot?
Photography is broad. Someone who’s excellent at weddings may not be the right fit for e-commerce. Someone who shoots editorial portraits may not be comfortable shooting food or interiors. Make sure the photographer has experience not just in photography, but in the type of shoot you’re doing. Try:
“Do you regularly shoot [insert what you need]?”
“Can I see recent examples from similar projects?”
2. What’s included in your pricing?
Photography pricing can vary wildly depending on the scope, industry, location, and licensing. Be clear on:
How many hours are included
How many final edited images you’ll receive
Whether retouching is included (and to what extent)
If travel, assistants, or gear rentals are extra
Whether any props or location fees are covered
3. What’s your turnaround time?
This varies a lot from photographer to photographer — some deliver final images within a few days, others may take 2–3 weeks. Ask:
How long it takes to receive a proof gallery (if applicable)
How long after selecting favorites you’ll receive the final edits
If rush delivery is available (and if so, what the cost is)
If your shoot is tied to a campaign or website launch, make sure the timeline works on both ends.
4. What’s your process before, during, and after the shoot?
A good photographer doesn’t just show up with a camera. They help you prepare in advance, plan the flow of the session, and deliver files in a clear, professional way. Ask about:
How they handle planning and creative direction (Are they expecting a mood board? Will they create one?)
Whether they provide a shoot list or shot plan
What the day-of process looks like
How photos are delivered (gallery link, download, cloud folder, etc.)
Whether there's a backup or archiving policy
5. Do you provide location, styling, or wardrobe guidance?
Depending on the type of shoot, you may need help with:
Choosing a location
Coordinating props or set design
Planning wardrobe, hair, or makeup
Some photographers include this as part of the package or bring in collaborators (stylists, set decorators, assistants). Others may expect you to bring everything yourself. Be clear on what's needed and what support they offer.
6. What rights will I have to the images?
This is a big one — and easy to overlook. Most photographers retain copyright to the images they take, but give you a license to use them for specific purposes. Ask:
“Will I have the rights to use the images for marketing, social media, and my website?”
“Are there any restrictions on how or where I can use the images?”
“Can I crop or add text/graphics to the photos if needed?”
If you plan to use the photos in advertising, resale products, or third-party media (like magazines or billboards), you may need to negotiate extended licensing.
7. Can you help with posing and direction?
Not everyone feels confident in front of the camera. If you're doing headshots or lifestyle photos, it helps to have a photographer who offers direction, not just clicks the shutter. If you're concerned about this, ask:
“Do you help with posing and expression?”
“Can you give prompts or help me feel more natural on camera?”
Some photographers have a very hands-on style, while others take a more photojournalistic approach. Neither is wrong — but make sure it’s a fit for how you prefer to work.
8. What happens if something goes wrong?
No one wants to think about missed flights, weather issues, or technical problems — but a professional photographer will have backup plans in place. You might ask:
“What’s your policy if the weather doesn’t cooperate for an outdoor shoot?”
“Do you have backup equipment?”
“What happens if you’re sick or unable to make the shoot?”
9. Can I see your contract before booking?
This should be a standard part of the process. A solid contract protects both you and the photographer by outlining the scope, timeline, payment terms, cancellation policy, and image usage rights. If a photographer doesn’t use contracts, or is hesitant to send one before payment, that’s a red flag.
10. Do you have testimonials or client references?
It never hurts to ask for proof. A quick peek at reviews, testimonials, or even informal feedback from past clients can help confirm you're working with someone reliable. You can ask:
“Do you have any testimonials I can read?”
“Can you point me to a past project similar to mine?”
If the photographer is new or doesn’t have public reviews, that’s not necessarily a dealbreaker — but it’s something to consider when weighing experience and expectations.
