By Stan P. Cox II, Director of Photography, Paramount Photography Hawaii
How long have you been making portraits in this community?
Every region and each community has it's own style and feeling. Not that each individual within the community has exactly the same tastes and style as everyone else, but there is a general agreement, usually, as to what is desirable. If your photographer has been a member of the community for some time, he'll have a better feel for the local sensibilities. You'll probably have more in common, and feel more comfortable with him.
What kind of Guarantees do you offer?
This is an obvious question. If the photographer has no guarantees, he has no confidence, and doesn't deserve your business. At the very least you should be guaranteed to be satisfied with the quality of the portrait products delivered. You should also be guaranteed a refund or re-take if you're not happy with any of the portraits from your session.
What is the archival life expectancy of my Portraits?
It really makes a difference what quality of product is used to make your portraits. If lighting, skill and care in creating portraits were all equal, (and they certainly are not), the photographic products, which your portraits are composed of, vary greatly in quality. And it shows. The big chain type, and franchise studios tend to use the cheapest products possible. Portraits such as those tend to fade and yellow. High-end professional products will have an archival life expectancy, or "colorfast rating" of 80+ years.
How much time do I need to plan on for the session?
The actual amount of time your session will require depends on the goals you have for your session. It also depends on the skills of the photographer and the care he takes with all the details. A portrait session can last from half an hour to two hours, or even more depending on the variables. You want a photographer who cares enough about your portraits to have a planning session or consultation with you prior to the creation of your portraits. From that you should have a very accurate idea of how much time to plan on.
How long do you save the images, negatives or digital files?
Whether the photographer shoots film or digital, you may want to order reprints from your session later on. In case you do, you'll want to know that the images will be on file and available, and for how long.
Do you offer Re-touching and Artwork on your portraits?
Most photographers have the capability to enhance portraits with special techniques and artwork, or their lab does. What kinds of art working or re-touching does your photographer offer, and is it included, or is there an extra charge? It is common for there to be extra charges for extensive artwork, but basic softening of facial lines and blemishes should be standard.
Can I have my portrait done on Premium Art Canvas?
Not all photo labs are equipped to make portraits on canvas, or to 'bond' portraits to canvas, but it does add an incredible dimension to photographic portraits. It is a more expensive process, but well worth it if your photographer can offer portraits on canvas.
Do you offer Packages as well as A La Carte purchases?
Some photographers offer only packages. Some only offer A La Carte pricing. You want the option to purchase only what you want! If a package turns out to be exactly what you want, then great! But what if you don't want everything in the packages offered, or you want a certain package but with an added 8x10 or so? Well, it just makes sense to work with a photographer who offers both packages and A La Carte.