One of life’s greatest ironies is that some of your best moments are the shortest, most fleeting ones. There’s a reason why the saying ”blink and you’ll miss it” exists. But the good news is that we have modern photography to help us freeze these special moments in time for a lifetime.
Working with the right photographer is the key to truly capturing the moment and eternalizing your best memories. Whether you’re organizing a surprise proposal, celebrating a milestone anniversary, or your child’s senior graduation, capturing these moments comes down to the expertise and experience of your photographer.
If you want to learn more about how to choose the best Destin photographers, this is the blog for you.
Consider Style and Specialization
Photography is a form of art and all art is subjective. This means that not all photographers are created equal and what might appeal to someone else, may not appeal to you. Each photographer tends to concentrate on their own niche, style, and content. It’s up to you to find the right photographer who aligns with your preferred style and aesthetic.
For example, some photographers might only shoot wedding content, while others might concentrate on family or newborn photography. This also means that each photographer has their own particular skill set, depending on what they photograph.
Do some research on local Destin family photographers and get a feel for their style. It’s also important to understand the type of photography you prefer. Is your style more candid, or do you prefer more styled, posed images?
Do a thorough review of a photographer’s portfolio which you can usually find on their website. Make sure their style, overall aesthetic, and specialization align with your vision before hiring them.
How Much Experience Do They Have?
Everyone has to start somewhere, so it’s understandable if you feel torn between a photographer’s portfolio and a lack of experience. Does this mean you shouldn’t hire them? Well, it depends on the type of photoshoot you’re hiring them for.
However, it goes without saying that more the experience a photographer has, the better their eye for detail, timing, and capabilities. If you’re planning a very important photo shoot that requires a high level of skill, instruction, and intuitive knowledge, it’s best to hire a photographer with good experience.
Choosing a photographer with good experience doesn’t have to mean they’ve been in business for decades. You can get a good gauge of their photography skills from their portfolio. The more questions you ask about how they handle photo shoots, the better your understanding of their experience and how they handle unpredictable scenarios.
Look at Local Reviews and References
If you’re on the fence about a few different Destin Florida photographers, a good way to get a clearer idea is to look at local reviews of their work. Most of the time, you can find reviews on their website. It also doesn’t hurt to ask for references so you can follow up on client satisfaction levels.
A previous client’s honest experience with a particular photographer can help solidify your answer when trying to choose the best photographer for your family portraits, anniversaries, a proposal, etc.
Ask About Pricing and Packages
Next, it’s a good idea to ask each photographer you’re considering for a run down of what they charge and whether they offer photoshoot packages. Most notable photographers will offer desirable packages and can often tailor them to your specific needs.
Make sure you get a detailed quote from each photographer which includes a breakdown of what the package includes. Keep in mind that prices can vary depending on a photographer’s experience, skill, demand, and location.
Remember that the cheapest option is not always the best option!
How Do You Feel About Their Personality and Energy?
It’s super important that you meet with your photographer in person and get a good feel for their personality and energy. Working with a person that you connect with on different levels can make a world of difference in how comfortable you feel with them on photoshoot day. All in all, this can result in better photos.
Assess what their energy is like, too. It’s okay to admit that you might not align with a photographer’s energy. Maybe they’re not quite as bubbly or friendly as you’d like, or perhaps they seem a little overbearing. Make sure your energies align for a great overall experience and photos you’ll truly love.
Here are a few other Destin photography tips to keep in mind:
- Make sure your preferred photographer is actually available on the dates you want before you book them
- It’s a wise idea to begin looking for a photographer at least three months before your vacation (especially during the holidays/peak seasons)
- Save yourself the heartbreak and figure out what your budget is beforehand, before settling on a photographer and realizing you can’t afford them
- When you ask about their pricing, make sure to enquire about their turnaround time for digitals and tangible products; and what their process is for editing/retouching photos
Lastly, make sure you talk to your photographer about their scheduling policy due to weather. Some photographers might offer rescheduling, some not offer refunds, while others might offer a partial refund/reshoot. It’s important to clarify this beforehand.
Looking for Destin Photographers to Help You Capture the Moment?
When it comes down to it, you need to work with a photographer who understands your style and vision. When you’re out to capture some of the best moments of your life, the photographer you choose can make or break how the moment was captured.
If you’re looking for experienced, reliable, and top-rated Destin photographers, you’re in the perfect place. Ti Adoro Studios offers some of the best photographers in Florida, specifically the 30a, Destin, Alys, and Rosemary Beach regions.
Book your next session with us today!
