What personal services can I hire a photographer for? Many photographers specialize in engagement and wedding photography, maternity, newborn, and family portrait photography, and senior and graduation photos. You can also hire photographers for events.

Do businesses use professional photographers? Businesses may hire photographers for branded staff headshots and team photos, business location photography, event photography, photos used to market products and services, and more. If you’re selling a home, your realtor or real estate company may have a professional photographer on staff or hire one to take high-quality photos of your home for its online listing.

What should I look for when hiring a photographer? Each photographer has their own style for the way they take and edit their photos. Ask yourself first what you envision for your photos. Do you want candid photos, posed photos, or a mix of both? What style do you prefer? Visit the photographer’s social media profile or website and look through their portfolio and get a feel for the types of photos they take and the quality of their work.

To find a photographer you can trust, look to see if they are BBB Accredited. Being BBB Accredited means the business adheres to the BBB’s Standards for Trust. Search for the photographer on BBB.org and other online sites to read customer reviews and complaints. You can also ask family and friends for referrals for photographers they have used in the past.

What are the important steps of hiring a photographer? After doing your research, request quotes from at least three different photographers that you like before deciding on one. Know your budget, then compare their pricing alongside what you receive from the photo package. Don’t forget to ask for their availability and the turnaround time for the final edited photos.

What should I look for in a photography contract? Your photographer will provide you with a contract for their services to sign up front. Carefully review the contract to ensure its accuracy. Look at the date of services, what’s included in your photo package, the cost, when payments are due, and when you should expect to receive your photos.

The contract will likely include more details like copyright information, social media releases, cancellation and refund policies, and much more. Be sure you understand everything in the contract before signing.

How much does a photographer cost? Professional photography costs will vary. In 2025, the average cost of a wedding photographer is $2,900, but that cost can increase or decrease depending on where and when you are getting married and how long you will need the photographer for.

For other professional photo needs, the 2025 average cost of a photo session can range from $50-$500, depending on the photographer and the requirements of the shoot.

How should I prepare for my photoshoot? Ask your photographer how to best prepare for their photoshoot. They should be able to provide you with guidance on what to wear, what time is best for lighting, ideal photo shoot locations, and more.

For more information

See BBB’s tips for hiring a photographer.

Visit BBB’s Wedding HQ for tips on planning the perfect wedding.