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Frequently Asked Questions

To assist you, we have created this list of frequently asked questions to help you know what to expect when choosing a photographer you can be confident in. 

**Disclaimer: Rates and fees in this FAQ are based on our survey results and are for informational purposes only. There may be photographers charging more or less than stated.

FAQ's

What should I look for in a Professional?
What does it take to be an Accredited photographer?
What is the difference between copyright release and a print release?
Who owns copyright to my images?
Can I use any image I find online for my own website or other commercial purposes
What should we wear to our session?
Why do I need professional headshots instead of doing one myself with my phone?
What happens if I have a terrible experience with my photographer?
How often should we have professional family portraits taken?
How long does a session usually last?
Why does a photographer charge what they do for an 8x10 when I can just print it locally for $2?
What is the benefit of investing in a professional photographer?
What is the benefit of hiring a PPOC Accredited Photographer?
What questions should I ask when looking for a wedding photographer?
Why don’t some photographers sell all the files?
What can I expect to pay for a portrait session?
What's the difference between a Professional Photo-lab and Consumer Photo lab?
What can I expect to pay for Professional Wedding services?
How much should I expect to spend on portraits?
Don’t all photographers give portrait session files?
What things should I look for when looking for a portrait photographer?
When should we have newborn photos taken?
I'm not happy with the portraits my photographer took. What can I do?

 

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Tuesday, January 1, 2019

What does it take to be an Accredited photographer?

Accreditation is the degree of elevation above the entry membership level, and is achieved by submitting samples of the applicant’s photography in a chosen category. Accreditation demonstrates that the photographer has proven professional ability to the Board of Examiners of the Professional Photographers of Canada. In assessing Accreditation submissions, the judges will consider the following criteria: Vision, Impact, Composition, and Technical merit. To be Accredited is to be recognized as an expert in a given photographic field.


What is the benefit of investing in a professional photographer?

You typically get what you pay for. You will receive premium service, quality photo products, and the photographers's range of experience and skills.  True professionals keep up with their skills and education, invest thousands of dollars into the best professional photographic lighting and camera equipment, as well as fast computers.


What is the benefit of hiring a PPOC Accredited Photographer?

PPOC has created a procedure whereby our photographers must complete a successful Accreditation judging process by submitting 10 images to prove they are proficient in specific genres.  Currently there are over 70 Accreditation categories.  PPOC photographers also abide by a strict Code of Ethics .  They are not permitted to advertise themselves as PPOC members until this process is complete.

What questions should I ask when looking for a wedding photographer?

Are you insured with at least 2 million dollars of liability?
Do you have a back up plan if you get sick?
Do you bring at least two sets of equipment with you in case of failure?
Do you have a legal contract I can view?
Will YOU be the person photographing my wedding?
What is your turnaround time for my wedding images?
What do your packages include?
Are you an Accredited Wedding Photographer?
How long have you been a Wedding Photographer?
What are your payment options?
Ask if you can have an in-person meeting to see if they are the right fit for your big day.
Do you have testimonials/ reviews/ references?
Will you provide the digital files or an album?


What's the difference between a Professional Photo-lab and Consumer Photo lab?

The main differences between a Professional Photo lab and Consumer photo lab are:

Pro labs do not ‘enhance’ your files adding unwanted saturation and contrast to the final print. All the beautiful editing the photographer did just as they intended.
Pro labs use heavier, archival paper. If you hold a print from Professional lab and a Consumer lab next to each other you will feel the difference. Thicker prints tend not to warp over time.
Pro labs have strict quality control so that your images are true to the original files displaying the ultimate colours, density, and contrast.
Pro lab prints are archival and will last for generations.
Pro labs are often only available to professional photographers.

What things should I look for when looking for a portrait photographer?

Do they have a professional website?
Does their work showcase good lighting and composition knowledge and skills?
What is their turnaround time?
Are they a PPOC member Accredited in Portrait photography?
What is their satisfaction guarantee policy if any?
Do they have liability insurance?
Ask for references and check any online reviews.
Do they have a physical studio/ gallery?
Go and visit them in person if possible.
Do they offer a complimentary pre-portrait consultation to discuss how to best achieve the types of portraits you’re seeking?
Do they offer a complimentary clothing consultation?

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