It seems summer might finally have arrived! We’re quite busy here for the next couple of months (and 2021 is already booking up!), but while I have a bit of downtime, I thought I’d address some of the things that you really should be checking before you book your Photographer.
Insurance
Some times it’s hard to ask this one but any Photographer you book, please check they are insured. No one likes to think about anything going wrong, but as a Supplier to you, you have to make sure that they are covered. Whether they are a student, just starting out or a family friend, insurance is key.
Cost
Sounds like a simple one, but how much is your Photographer actually going to cost? Sometimes there are hidden costs involved here.
We have a fixed price, no hidden extras. You pay a non-refundable booking fee of 20% of the full cost and then the rest 4 weeks before the event (if far enough in advance). For this, you get the photographer for the agreed amount of time and the agreed number of images in the agreed format.
Some Photographers charge extra to actually receive the images! Ask the question before you sign.
Payment plans
If you have found a photographer who’s work you love, but can’t afford to pay the full amount in one go, ask them if they will offer a payment plan.
Many established Photographers will offer this, including us. Keep in mind you will probably still have to have the full amount paid up before the event.
Contract
Have you received a contract from the Photographer? If not, why not?
Get it in writing. Make sure that you have the exact details of what you need from them at the event in writing and agreed by both you and your Photographer.
Children and vulnerable adults
If you are employing a Photographer for an event involving them working with Children or vulnerable adults, they should be able to prove that they have been checked via the DBS at least to the Basic standard.
