It may be hard to believe but there are a lot of contributing factors when it comes to getting a great photo.
First and foremost we have to ask ourselves what type of photo do we want or need? Family photos, head shots, children’s photos, sexy, glam, maternity, and the list goes on the type of photos that are available.
Once you’ve figured out the type of photo you need or want you want. It’s time to find a photographer that specializes in that type of photo that you are interested in, and that you are comfortable with. When you find that photographer it would be a good idea to ask for a consultation. The consultations are normally held via phone, and it would be the perfect opportunity to ask questions and the approximate cost. You want to make sure you are asking for the all inclusive cost, and what the shoot is including. There is nothing worse then shooting with a photographer that makes you uncomfortable, and surprises you with unexpected fees. If you are paying for your portrait you should not feel rushed, and remember that the photographer is on your time. Still, you definitely don’t want to act like a diva with a photographer that has ALL your unedited pictures. The end result might not be nice. LOL!
There are so many things to consider when putting together a shoot to ensure all goes smoothly the day of the shoot. Here are some things you may want to discuss with your photographer.
Will you need a Make-up Artist, and if the photographer knows of a good one he can recommend.
You’ll want to go over the necessary wardrobe for the look you want accomplish with your photos. Many of the times you can get lucky and your photographer can serve as an image consultant or may have some good recommendations for you. Most of the time the Make-up Artist are trained to style hair, and can benefit you entirely by not having to pay two different people. The Make-up Artist can charge for the initial make-up application to serve as one look for the entire shoot or charge for the whole day which should include up to three different looks, and touch ups in between. If the artist is charging for the whole day, he or she should be on stand by next to photographer keeping on eye that the make up and hair. Making sure everything stays in place. Over all making sure that everything is looking perfectly on camera.
An Image consultant also know as a stylist is an expert in styling people for events, interviews, public appearances, and photo shoots. You may not realize it but what you wear says a lot. An Image consultant has been trained or has tons of experience in choosing clothes that is right for your body, skin tone, and look to help express your own unique personality. You can have the right hair, make-up, lighting, but if your clothes are not right. It can ruin an entire picture. Just because you’re not a celebrity does not mean you shouldn’t feel like one on the day of your shoot, and have an amazing picture at the end of the day.
Location is another key point to a picture perfect shoot. You’ll often find yourself with choices including a Studio, out door location of your choice, and the privacy of your own home. Shooting in a studio or your home has it’s advantages in the sense of the preparation part for your shoot. Hair and make-up is always easiest applied but if you’re working with a professional he or she can do just as a great of job anywhere you choose to do your shoot. Many photographers have equipment that is functional both in doors and out doors. Traveling with portable backdrops, lights, reflectors, and everything necessary for your shoot. Traveling with all this equipment is not always easy. Therefore, it shouldn’t come as a surprise if your out door shoot gets a little expensive.
Finally! After all is discussed and the photo shoot went fabulously. You’ll want to discuss editing. Normally the photographer should give you a disc with all the images, and you can look them over on your own time. Pick the ones you like most, and the photographer can edit the final selections. Editing will help soften skin tones, brighten and lighten eyes, teeth, slim down any unwanted “fatty” areas, adjust lighting, and almost correct anything you may not be happy with. This part can be time consuming, and tedious for the photographer or person in charge of editing your pictures. Each photograph can take anywhere from 1 to 15 hours, so please be patient with your pictures if you are asking to have more than 5 to be worked on.
I will be attaching information to some of the photographers I’ve personally worked with, and work well with. Hope you find this information helpful, and if you have any additional questions or concerns in regards to a shoot you wish to book. Please do not hesitate in contacting me to help you coordinate it all from A through Zzzzzzzzzzz.
I may be reached at 310-713-2781 or emailed at Audrey@beautybyaudrey.com
Rates for an all inclusive shoot can range anywhere from $250 to $2000.00
Further details provided upon request.
I also have plenty of referrals for locations ranging from small studios to beautiful and modern homes with ocean front views.
Here are a few to choose from, and what they specialize in.
Brenda Knight Photography:
Brenda Knight is an amazing photographer for all occasions. I believe her specialty would be family, and children photography. Children respond well to her and camera techniques allowing her to produce the most adorable pictures of your little ones.
She’s perfect for Mommy, and me photos. Maternity, newborn, holiday cards, and birth announcements.
Check out her site at: http:// www.brendaknightphotography.com
Also you may want to check out David Beltran at: http://www.davidbphotos.com
David is perfect for all of your sexy glam, and girlfriend shoots.
Finally my top favorite Mr. Jesse Leon
Jesse is truly passionate about his crafts. He’s a very talented photographer who also makes amazing metal artwork, and is a fabulous image consultant. For many years Jesse has studied fashion magazines to help contribute to his amazing body of work.
If you are interested in booking an all inclusive shoot with any of these amazing photographers, please do not hesitate in contacting me for further details.