7 EXPERT TIPS: FIND TOP UK FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHERS
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO HIRE A PHOTOGRAPHER NEAR YOU
Ready to capture the magic with the perfect freelance photographer in the UK? Good news - you're in the right place!
With these 7 expert tips, we'll guide you straight to the lens of your dream photographer, and help you find the perfect freelance photographer for your event, wedding, show, or personal project.
- Reasons to hire a Freelance Photographer
- Different Types of Photographers
- Do’s and Dont’s when Hiring a Freelance Photographer
Reasons to hire a Freelance Photographer
In a world where everyone with a smartphone is a 'photographer', you might be asking yourself, "Why should I hire a professional freelance photographer?"
It's a fair question. After all, your cousin has an Instagram following that rivals a small country and your best friend's iPhone snaps could give a postcard a run for its money.
So, why invest in a professional?
In our digital age, a professional photographer is your secret weapon! Planning an epic event? Shooting for a property? Seeking a skilled property photographer in London? Want some snaps of you new product? You'll breathe easy, knowing those magical moments are in expert hands.
Elevating your web or social media presence? Prepare your content to pop and sizzle against the competition.
The importance of images to drive engagement can not be understated. Did you know that for online content, even a simple stock image can enhance engagement to up to 650% compared to a text only post?
A lot comes down to technical proficiency. It's not just about pressing a button; it's about mastering the science behind photography.
Comparing a professional's photo to a casual smartphone shot is like contrasting a five-star gourmet meal with a fast-food burger (this also applies to food-photographers). Both will fill you up, but the experience is on a whole different level!
So, how can you spot professional photography?
Look for razor-sharp focus and crystal-clear, high-resolution images that demand your attention.
Whether you're gazing at their work on a monitor or squinting at your phone screen, the quality and superiority of their work will leap off the screen.
Venture further into the realm of professional photography and discover the magic of RAW format - RAW, the unprocessed and untouched format of photography, captures all the raw data straight from the camera's sensor, preserving every detail and nuance of the scene.
Shooting in RAW serves as a safeguard, by allowing the photographers to tweak images in post-production while maintaining quality.
With RAW, more details are preserved, a wider dynamic range and colour information are retained, and non-destructive adjustments can be made.
Moreover, RAW files provide versatility for printing and output options, making them the go-to choice for achieving professional-quality results.
It’s not only about the file format, but hiring a professional photographer can make a world of difference, regardless of the occasion or purpose.
Whether you're planning a dream wedding, showcasing products, building an online presence, or capturing the essence of fashion, the expertise of a professional photographer is invaluable.
Wedding photographers have the skill to immortalise precious moments, ensuring your special day is forever treasured.
Product photographers have a keen eye for composition and lighting, elevating your merchandise to stand out from the competition.
Social media photographers understand the art of crafting visually captivating content that engages and grows your online audience.
Fashion photographers possess a flair for capturing the essence of style and elegance, creating captivating visuals that leave a lasting impression.
There's a world of difference between a professional's shot and a casual smartphone snap. So the next time you're tempted to just do it yourself, remember what you're missing out on: the creativity, expertise, and downright magic of a professional freelance photographer!
Using Freelancer Club
Here at Freelancer Club, we are fortunate to house some of the finest photographers in the industry.
We also speak with hundreds of employers, brands and the general public about their need to gain a better understanding of what we can do to streamline the process for both our clients and our talented members.
In addition, we have all the stats on recruitment and how to source talent.
Here are just a few reasons why posting a job at Freelancer Club is the way to go:
✅ It's 100% free and we don't charge fees or take a commission.
✅ We take all the hassle out of finding professional photographers
✅ You work directly with (and support) local professional photographers.
✅ It's simple to post a role and even easier to manage applicants, saving you time and space in your Inbox.
✅ Our management dashboard orders applicants based on relevance and enables you to view multiple portfolios at a glance.
✅ We source all kinds of different photographers all over the country, including London, Manchester and Birmingham.
Post a job for free, and we will guide you through the process of hiring the perfect freelance photographer for your occasion.
Need more advice and direction? Keep reading to learn more about what to expect in terms of cost, what questions to ask and lots more.
Stay Local
When it comes to photography, there's something particularly exciting about hiring a local freelance photographer.
They understand the local culture, the spirit of the people, and the unique vibes of each city, allowing them to capture those candid moments and genuine emotions that make your photos truly come alive.
Hiring a local freelance photographer means tapping into their insider knowledge and expertise, resulting in photos that not only capture your vision but also reflect the essence of your surroundings.
Hiring a local freelance photographer supports your community's creative ecosystem. By choosing a local freelancer, you're not only getting exceptional photography but also contributing to the growth and success of talented individuals locally.
When it comes to hiring a local photographer, you'll not only benefit from their deeper understanding of your vision but also enjoy logistical advantages.
Planning a wedding?
Meeting the photographer beforehand to discuss details or have a test shoot becomes much easier by keeping it local.
By hiring someone in your area, you minimise the chances of travel delays and other unexpected mishaps that could disrupt your special moments.
Whether you're looking for a Fashion Photographer in London, a Wedding Photographer in Manchester or an Event Photographer in Birmingham, make sure to spend some time in your local area before browsing elsewhere.
We won't deny the temptation of exploring photographers from all corners of the country—after all, your perfect match could be waiting anywhere.
However, kicking off your search locally might just be the perfect starting point.
It not only narrows down your options, making the decision-making process easier, but also supports your local community as well as being logistically viable.
While these are factors worth considering, don't let our suggestions limit your quest for the perfect match!
Feel free to cast your net wider and embark on an adventure that takes you beyond your local boundaries.
The photography world is vast, and your ideal photographer may be waiting for you in the most unexpected places!
Different Types of Photographers
Another consideration when you want to find a photographer is style.
We speak to hundreds of employers looking for a professional photographer and very few consider the style of the photographer when posting their requirements.
Brands tend to have a loose idea of style when hiring, whereas the general public typically omits this from their job description.
Photographers are artists and each artist has his or her unique style.
It’s worth spending some time really thinking through what you’re looking for before you begin your search for a photographer.
Looking online for references and ideas might be a good starting point to create your own vision. Why not make a pinterest board and share with your photographer?
It’s all about sharing those visions and ideas!
In general, a photographer's style evolves over time as they develop their craft.
When choosing your photographer, it's a great opportunity to pick a style that appeals to you or your brand.
Perhaps you're looking for a vintage bridal photographer who can create an ethereal effect or a snapper who uses deep shadows to create dramatic black and white portraits.
There are probably as many types of styles as there are photographers.
So, to make things easier, we’ve come up with some fun categorisations of different styles and types of photographers to look out for:
The Storyteller: These photographers have a knack for capturing compelling narratives through their lens. They bring stories to life, whether it's documenting social issues, cultural traditions, or personal journeys.
Their images evoke emotions and leave a lasting impact.
The Fashionista: With an eye for style and trends, these photographers excel in the glamorous world of fashion. They effortlessly capture the essence of elegance, showcasing the artistry of designers, models, and stylists through their lens.
The Wanderer: These adventurous souls embark on breathtaking journeys, capturing the beauty of landscapes, seascapes, and cityscapes.
Their images transport you to far-off places, igniting a sense of wanderlust and a deeper appreciation for the world's wonders.
The Portrait Whisperer: Armed with an ability to connect with their subjects, these photographers capture the essence of individuals through stunning portraits.
They immortalise personalities, emotions, and expressions, telling unique stories with each click of the shutter.
The Product Guru: When it comes to showcasing products, these photographers possess an unmatched eye for detail and composition.
They excel in capturing the essence of a brand, highlighting its features, and enticing viewers to explore further.
The Event Maestro: From weddings to corporate gatherings, these photographers thrive in the fast-paced world of events. They expertly capture fleeting moments, preserving memories and immortalising celebrations with their impeccable timing and keen eye.
Each style of freelance photography adds a different brushstroke to the canvas, creating a rich tapestry of visual storytelling.
So whether you're seeking a captivating narrative, a fashion extravaganza, an escape into nature, a timeless portrait, a product's allure, or an event's magic, there's a freelance photographer with a unique style ready to bring your vision to life.
Remember, some style will come from the photographer's camera whereas a lot of it will derive from their post-production work. Make sure to ask the photographer about their process before you commit.
Some photographers will include their post-production work into their fees whereas others will not. You don't want to end up with an image that's only half finished or a bill that you didn't expect.
Cost and Pricing
Setting the right rate for a photography job can be a puzzle with no easy solution, and the lack of clear guidelines often leaves employers unsure where to begin.
Determining the appropriate going rate for a job can be challenging when there is no established guideline to go by.
There are also vast differences between rates when it comes to experience and quality within each sector.
To offer some guidance, we've broken down the main areas that our clients post photography jobs in:
Wedding Photographer
There is a lot more to wedding photography than just showing up and taking a few snaps.
Most of the time, the bride and groom want to meet the photographer in person before the big day (also a big reason why hiring someone local could prove to be useful!).
They would often like the images to be sorted and retouched after the wedding too.
Should you wish for the photographer to scout the location before the day then that's another chunk of time that needs to be considered.
You may wish for the photographer to shoot the ceremony only or perhaps you'd like images of the wedding party getting ready, the after party or even the next day.
It's not just the photographer's time to consider but the number of images they will have to sort through the next day to provide you with the perfect collection of shots.
Prices can range from £250 for a couple of hours to document the ceremony to thousands of pounds. A full day shooting with a selection of images retouched would cost in the ballpark of £600 - £1000.
Portraits or Corporate Headshots
Whether you're looking to have your team shot for your company website or keen to arrange a family portrait, it's important to consider the photographer's style.
Corporate headshots have evolved from the serious look on a white backdrop look. Brands are sourcing photographers to shoot their team in ways that match their brand.
Look at what the photographer has done in the past to see if there's anything in his or her portfolio that matches your vision or if not, send a link to an image that you like so the photographer has a visual aid to manage your expectations.
Prices depend very much on your requirements. Corporate headshots for a team of 10 might take half a day for the basics or a full day if you require something more adventurous.
A less experienced photographer may charge between £200 - £350 per day whereas a higher end freelancer would charge around £500 - £1000 for a day's work.
Ensure that you discuss retouching (post-production) as part of the deal and if you want to produce images with a particular style, negotiate the overall price.
Pack Shots and Fashion Shoots
Hiring professional photographers for packshots or product shots are becoming the norm.
More businesses are discovering what the big online retailers have known for years - the better the shot, the better the sales.
It's always surprising to see companies spend thousands on a product, website, and advertising campaign only to skimp out on the photography.
A strong image is vital to help with marketing or advertising. Including an image in your advertisement increases the likelihood of consumer engagement by 60% .
Packshots or product photography is generally charged by the day.
The day rate of a photographer will range from £200 - £800 on average but make sure you negotiate the total fee including any retouching that will almost certainly have to be done after the shoot.
Fashion shoots require a bigger team as you'll most likely need a model, makeup artist, hair stylist, fashion stylist, and photographer.
A fashion photographer's rate will range heavily on the job but for an e-commerce day shoot, anything from £200 - £800 is about average.
You can often agree upon a better deal with fashion photographers as there is always post-production work to consider too.
Interview Questions to Ask
Congratulations on reaching the exciting stage of potentially hiring the perfect photographer!
As you prepare to take the next step, it's essential to ensure a solid foundation for your collaboration.
To help you out in making an informed decision, here are some important questions you should consider asking before embarking on your creative journey together:
What is your photography style and how does it complement my vision?
As we’ve mentioned, a lot comes down to style! Again, share any inspiration or ideas you’ve gathered yourself (such as pinterest boards) and be as specific as you can.
A professional photographer will take your vision and bring it up a notch in captivating photos.
Can you provide a portfolio showcasing projects similar to mine?
At this stage you’ve probably already seen some of the photographer’s work. However, it’s always worth asking if there’s anything else they can show you which might align with the vision for your project.
Again, it’s all about understanding each other.
What is your estimated timeline for delivering the final images?
It’s not only about snapping those snaps, but a professional photographer will spend time on editing those photos as well.
Clarify the photographer's timeline for completing the project and delivering the final edited images. Understanding their turnaround time allows you to manage expectations and plan accordingly!
Can you outline your pricing structure and what services are included in your packages?
Now, you’re paying for a service which will come with a price tag. Prices for photography can vary vastly depending on the photographer’s experience, so make sure you’ve discussed this before you begin your collaboration.
Write up a contract which clearly states what’s included in the package: including retouches and editing.
Do you have any recommendations or ideas to enhance my project?
It might be the case that you’re set on a vision, and don’t necessarily want additional input. But, after all, you’re hiring a professional for a reason: an experienced person who might be able to bring your vision further.
Their suggestions and ideas can add value and creativity, ensuring the final results exceed your expectations.
Can you provide references or testimonials from previous clients?
Sometimes merely the portfolio won’t give you enough information to make a decision; after all, you’re hiring a person, not a machine.
Request references or testimonials from the photographer's previous clients to gain insight into their professionalism, reliability, and overall client satisfaction.
This will help you make an informed decision based on others' experiences.
Do’s and Don'ts when Hiring a Freelance Photographer
Now that we’ve gone through some of the most important things to consider when hiring a freelance photographer, let's wrap it up with a summary of essential Do's and Don'ts.
Keep these in mind to make the most informed decisions when selecting your photographer:
✅ Do provide as much detail as possible when posting the photography job
✅ Do set a realistic budget that takes into account the entire job (it's not just the time they are shooting you need to pay for!)
✅ Do ask questions to vet photographers when posting the role eg: have you experience in a similar project?
✅ Do decide how to communicate with the photographer(s) throughout the process
✅ Do use sample images to show the photographer what type of photos you'd like from the project
❌ Don't think 'my cousin has a good camera, I'll just use her'. Yes, camera phones are amazing but the difference between a professional photographer bringing skills far beyond just taking pictures, and an amateur is vast. Pay peanuts, get monkeys.
❌ Don't hire a photographer without a contract. A service agreement protects both parties and removes the majority of potential conflict.
❌ Don't let a photographer shoot 'what they want' if you have a list of required shots.
And most importantly:
Do remember that the Freelancer Club is here to cater for all your photographer needs, and Don’t hesitate to post a job for free today! The perfect freelance photographer is just a few clicks away.
Images: Dean Northcott, Oliver Matthews, Fern Deacon, Natt Jay, Ian Kiffin, Ieashia, Theo Ahimana
