The Dos and Don’ts of Asking a Photographer Questions

You just did your first brand shoot of the year. The anticipation builds - you can’t wait to see the results. You’re certain the photographer snapped over 500 pictures during the session, at least!

But then, the day arrives when you receive your edits, selections, or final images, and you realise the number of photos is far lower than you expected. You’re thrilled with the pictures, but instead of receiving hundreds, you get a more curated selection.

Suddenly, you find yourself wondering: "Why can’t I have access to all those captivating moments captured through the lens?"

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. As a photographer myself, I’ve encountered this question countless times. So, let me shed some light on why photographers don’t simply hand over every single shot.

The Do’s and Don’ts: Asking a Photographer

This post is written with a bit of humour— so please don't take this to heart! You’re free to ask your photographer anything, but having some basic knowledge beforehand will help smooth the process and improve communication for both sides.

As a photographer, there are certain questions you hear all the time. We, photographers, have to remember that some people may be facing their first photoshoot or simply have no idea how the process works, so may need to explain some basic aspects. Every photographer has a different workflow, so it’s important to ask questions to ensure you know exactly what to expect.

Unfortunately, sometimes we have to be strict to protect ourselves from people who don’t appreciate the value of our work. Some photographers may feel burned out by these experiences, so if someone comes across as strict, keep in mind they may have had difficult encounters in the past.

That said, if you ask your questions with respect and genuine curiosity, any photographer will be happy to educate you and explain their process.

Questions to Ask a Photographer: The "Don’ts"

1. Don’t Insist on Getting All the Photos

Avoid pressuring the photographer to hand over all the raw, unedited images. Trust that they have your best interests in mind and are selecting the best shots for you.

Photographers typically shoot in RAW format, which preserves all the image data but requires special software like Photoshop to even view. These files are massive, take up lots of space, and often look flat before editing. They need adjustments—colour correction, brightness fixes, and more—before they’re converted into JPEGs (a more accessible format) for you to be able to use them.

Think of it like this: instead of giving you a finished dress, imagine if a designer handed you a pile of fabric and told you to sew it yourself. That’s what it would be like if a photographer sent you unedited RAW files!

2. Don’t Underestimate Editing

Editing plays a crucial role in enhancing the beauty of a photo. It’s not just about filters—it’s about refining details, adjusting lighting, and ensuring the final image looks polished and professional.

3. Don’t Assume Every Photo Is Perfect

Not every shot taken during a photoshoot will be flawless. Some will be out of focus, others may capture you while speaking or doing a not flattering facial expression, and a few might just not work compositionally. A good photographer carefully curates the best images for you.

For example, I would never send a client a picture where they’re blinking or out of focus (unless, of course, the brief specifically called for artistic blur!).

4. Don’t Overlook the Photographer’s Expertise

When you hire a photographer, you’re not just paying for images—you’re investing in their experience, artistic vision, and technical skills. Trust that they will deliver exceptional results.

5. Don’t Compare Quantity to Quality

It’s easy to think, the more photos, the better! But a smaller selection of high-quality images is far more valuable than hundreds of mediocre ones. Prioritise artistry over sheer volume.

Questions to Ask a Photographer: The "Do's"

1. Ask About the Selection Process

Feel free to ask how your photographer selects and edits the final images. Understanding their workflow can give you insight into the care and attention that goes into each photo. Be sure to clarify how many final images you’ll receive upfront.

2. Express Your Preferences

If you have specific style preferences, poses, or editing requests, communicate them! Bringing a mood board to your session can be incredibly helpful for both you and your photographer. Most professionals will appreciate the clarity and inspiration.

3. Trust the Photographer’s Expertise

Remember, you’re hiring a professional for their skill and vision. Trust their judgment when it comes to selecting the best shots. Do you need some guidance on finding the right photographer? Read my blog about "How to find the right photographer for you".

4. Prioritise Quality Over Quantity

A handful of beautifully edited images will always be more valuable than a flood of average ones. Focus on receiving the best, not the most.

5. Be Patient

Editing takes time! Your photographer is working hard to ensure each image meets their high standards. To avoid unnecessary stress or follow-ups, agree on a timeline in advance.

Conclusion

By keeping these do’s and don’ts in mind, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the world of photography as a client. Trust the process, communicate openly with your photographer, and most importantly, focus on quality over quantity.

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