How Many Photographers Should I Look At?

The short answer to this is "as many as it takes". Generally speaking though, it depends on how important photography is to you and how decisive you are. But with so many photographers having online portfolios, it's easier to narrow down the list right off the bat so that you can reduce the number of photographers you meet with in person.

My advice is to start out by looking online, and narrow that number down to maybe the top 5 or so that you'd like more information on. Then call those photographers and check on their availability and pricing (if it's not online already). Once you have a list of people that are available, make a few appointments. I'd recommend at least two appointments. 3 is probably average, but some people meet with a much larger number. You may wind up going with the first one you met with, but at least you'll know you explored other options.

© 2004-2008 Jacqueline L. Beck. All rights reserved.