Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?
A. Look at the photographer's work and see if it matches your style. Ask questions. Make sure you are comfortable with the photographer's demeanor, attitude, and service package.
Q. If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?
A. I would want to know what makes one photographer better than another? There are a lot of photographers to choose from these days, and almost everyone has a camera! For me, it all comes down to lighting, styling, and attitude. Good lighting can make the model "pop" out at you. Good expressions and attitude create appeal and desire. A good photographer will position lights to flatter your features and will make you comfortable enough to open up to the camera with confidence.
Also, it's good to understand copyright law. The photographer always owns the copyright to the photos that he or she takes. Don't be surprised when asked to sign a model release form allowing photographer to use/sell the images.
Q. What questions should a consumer ask to hire the right service professional?
A. How do I receive the images? Do the images come with or without watermarks?
Do I have to order prints through you or can I arrange my own prints?
How long will it take to receive the images?
Do you retouch the images? If so, how many and for how much?