If you’re searching for the perfect portrait photographer, it’s all too easy to get drawn in by titles like “the best”.
When it comes to art, the term best is as subjective as a brushstroke on canvas. Was Picasso better than Monet?
Rather than ranking masters, it’s essential to remember that every photographer has a unique style. Finding the ‘best’ photographer for you is less about comparison to a universal standard and more about finding someone whose work you love.
As a Surrey-based photographer, I receive a few enquiries each month from people whose vision doesn’t align with my style. When that happens, I politely turn down the job.
Why? Because forcing my approach into someone else’s vision isn’t likely to yield the results they’re hoping for—or that I’d be proud to deliver.
The best results come from working with a photographer whose style you genuinely love, one whose existing portfolio speaks to the look and feel you want in your portraits.
In this blog post, here are some practical tips for finding the photographer who’s truly the best for you.
Review Portfolios Thoroughly
Spend time browsing through portfolios. As well as looking for a well-shot image, you should search for a consistent style that feels right for you.
Do you love the way they play with light? Or how they capture emotions?
Choose a portrait photographer whose work feels like ‘you’ and whose approach makes you feel at ease.
Avoid Asking for Style Replication
All too often, prospective clients approach me with inspiration from other photographers, asking for me to recreate that particular style. It doesn’t work like that.
Every photographer has a unique approach. Attempting to mimic another style will usually lead to frustration.
Choose a photographer for their unique style rather than asking them to copy someone else’s.
Consider Your Comfort and Connection
Working with a photographer is a personal experience. You will get the best results from a portrait photography session if you feel relaxed and comfortable with the photographer.
Look for a photographer who makes you feel at ease from your first conversation.
Ask Questions About Their Process
Different photographers approach a shoot in various ways. Ask about their process to understand how they will guide you to ensure you are comfortable and happy during your portrait session.
A good photographer will happily share insights and make the session feel collaborative.
In the end, a great portrait is a partnership.
If you’re looking for someone local in Surrey who can bring out your best, we should talk.
Review my portfolio; if my style resonates, I’d love to work with you.
Remember: the best portrait photographer near me is the one whose work is already aligned with your vision and has a process with which you feel comfortable.
