Collaborating with a new photographer involves pre-planning and clear communication to ensure seamless sessions and stunning results!
When working with a new photographer, our initial session will focus on understanding how we can collaborate effectively (while also capturing fantastic photos!). Pre-planning before each session is crucial to ensure that everyone is aligned with the vision and goals. Prior to the shoot, we'll schedule a phone call to discuss the game plan and address any questions you may have. It's important to recognize that interior photography demands attention to detail and a calculated approach. Every project varies significantly and may require more or less time based on several factors. Incorporating staging, styling, or including individuals and pets can enhance the images, but it's essential to acknowledge that these elements impact the time needed to create each photo. Complex spaces may require additional time for setup and lighting adjustments for optimal results. Full-day sessions are common in this genre of photography. Sharing images of the space beforehand or arranging a site visit (if included in the photographer's services) can streamline larger shoots. With many moving parts before the session, it's easy to overlook specific features or desired angles so I recommend creating a shot list for initial shoots until we align on your preferences. We can then refine the list together to ensure we capture everything you envision showcasing.
Remember, each photographer has their own process. If you have collaborated with one in the past, their process may be completely different to your new photographer. Some photographers will work quicker throughout the spaces and include a higher amount of final photos. This may work for you if you are looking for lots of content to fill your social media pages. Others may capture less images in a full day, but will deliver the highest quality of images.
You are just starting to contact photographers: Below is a list of important questions to ask!
- Share your marketing plans & goals with the photographer
- Where do you want to use the images?
- How can the photographer help me achieve my business goals?
- What usage rights do they include in the packages & can you explain image licensing/copyright to me?
- Can I give the final photos to other businesses or social media accounts to use?
- Are you experienced in handling different lighting conditions and challenges specific to small interior spaces?
- How many images can I expect from a full day shoot?
- How are your fees structured?
- How can I lower the costs of my session?
- Walk me through how you capture a space.
- How many hours coverage will we be on site for?
- Do your fees include editing? How long does the post production process take?
- Do you shoot tethered? (Camera view connected to a laptop or iPad)
- Will you allow me to approve each shot after you set up the composition, or do you prefer to work on your own?
- Should I style the spaces for photography? Do you offer styling services?
- What is your availability like, and do you have flexibility in scheduling?
You have your photographer secured: Below are session day prep questions you can ask so you are both fully onboard!
- How do I prep the homeowners for the session? Do they need to be out of the house for the day?
- How many hours can you estimate we will be on site for?
- Do you shoot tethered? (camera view connected to an iPad or laptop)
- Should I make a shot list and what angles do you recommend?
- Will you be using additional lighting equipment during the shoot?
- What is the best time of day for natural light in the space?
- Should we have a site visit before the shoot?
- Will you shoot with the lights on or off?
- Should I provide any specific props or elements for the photoshoot?
- How do you handle revisions or additional editing requests after the first round of edits?
Jordann is a Canadian commercial photographer specializing in architecture & interior photography based in Ottawa, Ontario.
Photo of Candace Plotz Design
