Photographer Skill Levels
Below is a description of the different levels of photographers. Rates are dependent upon your area.
In-Training ($25 - $50 per shoot)
These photographers are still learning how to shoot. They provide minimal direction but may get a few nice shots here and there. Photographers enter at this level and increase only after they have shot more than ten happy clients in a row.
Guarantee: Client is guaranteed to get at least a few nice shots, either indoors or outdoors. There is no guarantee on expression, lighting, or technical prowess of the photographer.
Guarantee: Client is guaranteed to get at least a few nice shots, either indoors or outdoors. There is no guarantee on expression, lighting, or technical prowess of the photographer.
Certified Associate ($50 - $100 per shoot)
A Certified Associate Photographer is one who understands the technical details of lighting and shooting, and can sometimes get great photos. Although they are technically savvy, they may provide clients with minimal direction of expression, body positioning, and angles. If a client needs professional pictures but isn't worried about expression and being directed, an associate photographer would be their choice.
Guarantee: Client is guaranteed to get a number of professional-looking photos (lighting and background), either indoors or outdoors depending on what you provide. There is no guarantee on expression, angle, or perfection of hair, clothing, etc.
Guarantee: Client is guaranteed to get a number of professional-looking photos (lighting and background), either indoors or outdoors depending on what you provide. There is no guarantee on expression, angle, or perfection of hair, clothing, etc.
Professional ($75 - $200 Per Shoot)
A professional-level photographer understands photography at a very high level and will be engaging and fun to work with. Client should get a number of nice shots and the photographer will work with them to pull out a number of nice expressions. This option is perfect for those who are happy to work with the photographer as a team to try to get something really nice.
Guarantee: Client is guaranteed professional-looking photos, a number of nice expressions, good angles, and their clothing and hair should look nice.
Guarantee: Client is guaranteed professional-looking photos, a number of nice expressions, good angles, and their clothing and hair should look nice.
Master ($150 and Up Per Shoot)
A Master-Level photographer is one who is extremely experienced and understands all the intricacies of lighting, angles, and expression. They can quickly fix any issues and will make sure the client is happy with their shots throughout the shoot by responding with a quick-fix to any negative comments the client has about the photos during the session. They can give the client complete direction to ensure they get many amazing photos out of their shoot. Hiring a Master-Level photographer is the right choice for people wanting full direction, those who are uncomfortable on camera, or those who want to ensure they get a series of amazing pictures no matter what.
Guarantee: Client is guaranteed on everything. This means that for any reason, if after the shoot they are unhappy, they can be refunded in full before accepting the images in high-res.
Guarantee: Client is guaranteed on everything. This means that for any reason, if after the shoot they are unhappy, they can be refunded in full before accepting the images in high-res.