5 Questions to ask before you book a photographer

(that gives you clarity and certainty)

Booking a photoshoot isn’t just ticking a box on your to-do list. It’s choosing how you want to remember this chapter of your life.

Whether it’s you on your own, growing a little human, or holding your family close in a fleeting season… these photos will outlive the moment itself.

And while beautiful images matter, there’s something far more important quietly shaping the outcome.

It’s how you feel while they’re being taken. The experience is equally important.

Before you lock in a photographer (even me), here are 5 questions worth asking, the kind that turn a “nice shoot” into something you’ll keep coming back to.

1. What’s your style and how do you run a session?

Some photographers love structure and precision. Others lean into movement and spontaneity. Most sit somewhere in between.

Ask:
“How would you describe your style, and how do you guide people during a shoot?”

Because standing in front of a camera with no direction can feel like being handed a violin and asked to just… play.

My approach sits in that sweet spot between guided and natural. I’ll gently direct you so you’re never left wondering what to do with your hands, while also leaving space for those in-between moments that tend to steal the show.

And if you’re someone who prefers more posed images? We can absolutely go there too. This is your session, not a one-size template.

2. How do you help people feel comfortable?

Let’s not pretend otherwise, being photographed can feel a bit like being put under a microscope at first.

Ask:
“What do you do to help people relax and feel confident?”

The way you feel will always find its way into the images.

Before your session, I offer a complimentary video call so we can meet properly, chat through your ideas, and make things feel familiar before you even step in front of the camera.

During the shoot, I check in, adjust the pace, and read the room (and you). If you need a breather, we take one. If inspiration pops up mid-session, we follow it. Inspiration photos are welcome but I always try to make the session tailored to you rather copying someone's else work.

3. What’s included and what will I pay in total?

Photography pricing can sometimes feel like opening a menu with no prices on it. A little unsettling.

Ask:
“What’s included in the session fee, and are there any additional costs?”

You deserve to know exactly what you’re stepping into.

With me, everything is laid out upfront on my website (I simply hate shopping when I dont clearly see the prices so I am publicly stating how much my services are worth). For outdoor sessions, you receive your full gallery of carefully edited images, no gallery upgrades or no extra charges. 

For studio sessions, you’ll have a selection included, with the option to add more if you fall in love with extra images (which tends to happen, fair warning).

Simple, transparent, and easy to navigate.

4. When and how will I receive my photos?

After the session, the waiting game begins… 

Ask:
“How long will it take to receive my photos, and how are they delivered?”

I send a little preview within the first week, just enough to relive the feeling while it’s still fresh.

Your full gallery arrives within a few weeks (no more than three, depending on the season), delivered through a private online link where you can download everything in high resolution, ready for printing, sharing, or keeping close.

5. Will you guide me on how to prepare?

This is the question that holds everything together. Preparation is quite important as your mood and your visual appearance are the key factors influencing the final outcome. 

Ask:
“Do you provide guidance on what to wear and how to prepare?”

Walking into a session feeling unsure can take the edge off what should be an enjoyable experience.

Once you book, I’ll send you a detailed prep guide covering outfits, styling, how to prepare kids or partners, and what to expect on the day.

And if something pops into your mind, you can reach out. You’re not left figuring it out on your own.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a photographer is less about finding someone who takes beautiful photos and more about finding someone who creates an experience you’ll want to step into.

The right person will guide you, support you, and create an environment where you can relax into the moment without overthinking every little detail.

And the photos? They’ll follow naturally from there.

If this feels like your kind of experience, you’re always welcome to reach out and start a conversation. Schedule a video chat with me.

Or, if you’d like to explore a little more first, here are my current services:

Luxury studio experience for women
Milestone sessions outdoors