Do you Trust Your Photographer?

You have searched online and found a photographer whose work you like. You have communicated via email and booked the photographer for your photoshoot.

How do you know they are trustworthy?

I have heard some horror stories in my 18-year career.

There are a few things you should look out for before handing over any money.

1. Do they have a website?
   A website is one of the most important assets a professional photographer has. Not only does it showcase the photographer’s portfolio, but it has other important information that is important for clients to review. These include: 
   1. The website domain name. Is it a free website, or does the name of the website correspond to the domain name? In my case, my website is Sean van Tonder Photography and my domain name is www.seanvantonder.co.za.
   2. “Contact” page - should have an address or contact number?
   3. “About Me/Us” Page. The “About Me” page will introduce you to the photographer and provide you with a little more insight as to who they are.
      
      
2. Is their business listed on Google/Bing?
   1. A quick Google/Bing Search of the photographer’s business name will provide you with important information.
      See the diagram below.
      
3. The photographer’s business name on Facebook and Instagram
   1. Do they have a Facebook or Instagram page?
   2. Are they active on their social pages?
   3. Check their reviews.
   4. Are their contact details the same on their website and their social pages?
      
4. Is your photographer available during office hours to chat?
   We live in a digital era, where we mostly communicate via email or text messages. Is your photographer available to chat during office hours? Do they answer the cell phone or if they missed your call, do they call you back?
   At times photographers are busy, but they should at least return your call within 24 hours (max).
   1. Reach out to your photographer at least two weeks before your shoot date (even sooner if it is a wedding). Make sure they have your date and time scheduled.
   2. If you are still concerned, give your photographer a call on the phone or set up a meeting(video or in person).

There are a lot of "fly-by-nights" out there. Please research your photographer before making a decision.