What makes a photographer a professional? A suit and tie? Owning a studio? Owning expensive gear? Technically, there is no correct answer to this. Anyone can call themselves a professional photographer. We don’t need degrees. But there are a few things you should take into consideration when choosing your future photographer.
Besides the list of questions and answers below, take into consideration personality. You should enjoy your photographers company. Sure, it’s only going to be for a short time, but it should be pleasant. As a photographer, I want you to connect with me, and laugh! Don’t be afraid to laugh. Trust me, I have no problem making jokes at my expense to get a chuckle out of you.
Also, really look at their work. What makes it different than other photographers? You should also connect with their current work. Just taking pictures that are in focus and happen to catch you with a smile on your face, don’t make them great photos. Anyone can do that. The images should touch you. You should feel emotion when you look at them. If they are of you, they should bring back memories and stir up emotions each time you see them. Take some time to read through the list below. I have answered each question with my own answer. If you are considering a photographer for an upcoming photo session, ask them these questions. They should be able to answer each question very similar to my responses.
While this is a list that I usually give out to future brides, it applies to all photography situations; Family, Children, Seniors, Engagements…you get the idea.
Q. What is your photographic style?
This can be one or more of the following: traditional, photojournalistic, posed, candid, artistic, documentary.
A. I am an artistic photojournalist preferring candid over posed photography. However, I always allow enough time for requested poses. <<< That is for weddings ONLY! For portrait sessions, I am an artistic “lifestyle” photographer. I am there to capture the emotions and details of your everyday lifestyle.
Q. Are you the actual day-of photographer?
If not, can we meet with the actual photographer? Should/Can you meet the assistants also? Some wedding photographers will sell you on them and send someone else to cover your wedding.
A. I will ALWAYS be your primary photographer. Of course you can meet my assistants or second photographers.
Q. Do you shoot in black and white?
If film, do they shoot in black and white? If digital, do they keep the originals in color and do black and white in post-production?
A. All digital, no film. I always shoot in color. It allows me to have full control over the b/w editing process. If your photographer is simply desaturating to achieve b/w, be careful. You are not getting the true b/w images you deserve. Unfortunately, I do not preserve every file. Initial black and white and advanced techniques are done in advance.
Q. Will you have other weddings that weekend?
How will that affect our wedding? If you at the tail end of a weekend (Sunday after Saturday and Friday weddings), can your photographer handle that? Some photographers do not have the physical or emotional endurance.
A. NEVER! I only book one wedding per week to ensure that your wedding receives the ultimate attention. To be more specific, even if you only book a 2 hour wedding, you will be my only appointment that day. Why? Just in case you decide you need additional photography time.
Q. Can we get negatives or digital negatives?
How long after the wedding date (get this one in print)? Are they full resolution files?
A. All digital files are full resolution and may be purchased in addition to your package. Turn around time for entire package depends on amount of images but usually takes between 90-120 days. Every image is hand edited and color corrected. There are many photographers that will take 5000 pictures and hand them over to you the next day for a fraction of the price. However, you are not receiving the same level of quality. Remember what I said about emotion?
Q. What kind of equipment do you use?
Are there tripods? Wires? Can people trip? Is it obtrusive? Ask about the quality of the cameras, lenses, and lighting. This is to just roughly gauge their understanding of equipment. I can deconstruct most of my own photographs, telling you the light settings and lens I used.
A. Only professional grade equipment is used. As a Canon user, I shoot with a Canon 5D MkII as my main camera and Canon L lenses. Lights are all fired remotely with wireless devices, eliminating any wires. We also have battery power for all of our lighting equipment. If all the power were to go out, we could continue to photograph your wedding! In the event that someone is injured, see the next question 
Q. Are you insured?
This is just a measure of their professionalism as a business.
A. Yes. I am insured by one of the largest photographic insurance providers in the country and we can provide proof of insurance to any requesting venue.
Q. What do you do in case of emergencies?
What if the photographer is ill or cannot make it? Do you have backup equipment? Do you backup photos (for digital photographers)?
A. I always have a second photographer on call. We always have backup camera bodies, lenses, lights and any other essential gear. We also carry on average 60Gb of memory at any time. All of our images are backed up to multiple hard drives to prevent data loss.
Q. Can I see an entire wedding?
This allows you to see the consistency in one day (as opposed to only having a few “keepers” from each wedding). Many photographers will only show you their ‘best’ images.
A. Absolutely! I encourage you to view an entire day of photography. However, be prepared to view around 1500 photos from a 12 hour event!
Q. How much is overtime?
Can they work overtime if asked to?
A. I am always prepared to work overtime. Overtime is billed at $75 per hour.
Q. How are you dressed?
Are they presentable? I’ve seen photographers show up in gray t-shirts and black lace tank-tops (not guys).
A. Like the professional that I am. Always in long sleeves, slacks and tie. Suite/Jacket will be worn upon request. I need to be able to move freely to ensure you get the best images possible! <<< Weddings ONLY! For portraits, I dress extremely casual. Usually shorts and a button down shirt. Why? Because I don’t want to miss that shot. I climb trees, lay in mud puddles, whatever it takes. I need to be flexible
I would also like to mention our community. We are a small community here in Ridgecrest. Unlike several local photographers, I do have a business license. I do pay taxes. I do contribute time to charities. I do give back to the community. Please take that into consideration when making your decision.