What Should You Look for in a Portfolio?

Many photographers have online or physical portfolios, and they usually bring them along or email them when they meet with a prospective client. When you are sitting down with a photographer you are considering, you will want to ask to see their portfolio, if you haven’t already, and knowing what you will be looking for is KEY to having the experience you crave!

• Look for variety: If every photo is in the same location or of the same model, you probably know that this photographer has only done very limited shooting, or prefers to make all their shots identical. Of course, good photographers will have a similar style throughout their images, but not identical photos. Look for photos with movement, good posing, and a variety of locations that all represent their personal style.
• Look for great lighting: Lighting is a mark of an excellent photographer. You can probably tell if someone is a shoot-and-burn, low end photographer if they have photos with a lot of shadows or poor lighting balance (if the shadows are clearly not stylistic). Look for good lighting on faces and flattering light in poses. Look at where they post the subjects and how they utilize natural or artificial light.

• Look for great editing: It is rare that clients want to look completely photoshopped, or like they have an Instagram filter on their face. Good editing will keep subjects looking like themselves, and will appear seamless and “without effort”. If this is a concern to you (such as you have persistent acne or glasses that have glare on them), please bring up your expectations, so that you photographer knows what you would like.
• Look for the style that you’ll want to display. I have seen clients choose very moody, primarily journalistic photographers, when they really wanted bright, editorial photos for their home. Know what you’re looking for, so that you choose the proper style that you’ll want to hang up, fill an album with, or use for your graduation announcements! Mention to your photographer past shoots that you loved or didn’t love, so they can guide you.

No matter who you choose, you want to be sure it’s the RIGHT photographer for you and your needs. Always review a portfolio, ask questions, and thoroughly research before you make your final choice! I’d love to share what makes my photography so special, and help you review my style and even finished products so you can feel informed! Let me know if you’re ready to get started!