How to Choose the Right Event Photographer
Photos allow us to relive the moments that matter most. While anyone can snap pictures on a phone, professional event photographers are able to capture depth, emotion, and intentionality. We preserve the quiet glances, the energy of the crowd, and the beauty of the space with purpose. That’s why the photographer you choose shapes how your event is remembered long after the lights go out.
Jonathan Fanning has worked around Pinellas County as a professional photographer since 2007. From small private parties to large conference events, we’ve handled it all. So if you’re looking for an experienced insider’s advice about how to hire the right person to shoot your event, this guide will help you choose wisely.
The Difference Between Good and Great Photographers
A good photographer can take solid pictures, but a great one anticipates moments, adapts under pressure, and tells a story from start to finish. It’s more than having the right gear. It’s having excellent people skills, timing, and ability to read a room.
A true professional doesn’t wait for a moment to happen. They position themselves to catch it before anyone else even sees it coming. Whether it’s the exact second a bride sees her father across the aisle or the triumphant end of a keynote speech, timing is everything.
When you’re reviewing portfolios, look for full event galleries. One great photo doesn’t mean much if the rest fall flat. A consistent body of work with clean lighting, strong compositions, and natural expressions will tell you more about a photographer’s skill than a highlight reel. You can view our full range of work in our event photography portfolio.
Tailoring the Search to Your Event Type
Different events require different skills. Not every photographer fits every situation, and that’s perfectly normal.
- Corporate events: Discretion and speed matter. You need a photographer who blends in, respects the pace of the day, and delivers edited files promptly for company use.
- Private celebrations: For birthdays, anniversaries, and retirement parties, empathy and timing matter more than flashiness. The right photographer will notice subtle interactions and capture the personality of the event without being intrusive.
- Weddings and engagements: Weddings come with high expectations and tight timelines. Your photographer should take beautiful images but also be prepared, calm under pressure, and always ten steps ahead.
- Influencer or branding events: Branding events often require social-friendly formats, creative direction, and fast post-event turnaround. The images need to pop immediately and be ready for online use.
- Community gatherings or public festivals: The challenge lies in managing mixed lighting, constant motion, and large crowds.
The best way to see if a photographer has the right skills is to look at their portfolio. You should be able to find multiple examples of high-quality work from similar events and venues.
Questions to Ask When Hiring a Photographer
Asking the right questions is one of the best ways to find out if a photographer will be a good fit for your event.
“Have you photographed events in my local area? Are you familiar with our event venue?”
Local knowledge is a great place to start. Hiring a photographer with experience at your event location will save time and stress on the day.
“Can I see examples of your work from similar events?”
A photographer who only shoots weddings may not be ideal for a corporate awards dinner. Skillsets vary by event type, and your photographer’s portfolio should reflect the event you’re planning.
“How do you handle last-minute changes to events?”
Ask how they communicate with planners or adjust when a schedule shifts. An adaptable photographer reduces stress rather than adding to it.
“What is your pricing structure? How fast is your turnaround?”
Pricing should be communicated upfront and easy to understand. Expected turnaround times should be included in your service contract.
Photographer Red Flags to Avoid
- If a photographer overemphasizes style but can’t show consistent, well-lit galleries, that’s a concern. Unique editing is great only when the fundamentals are there.
- Watch out for vague pricing structures. A trustworthy photographer is transparent about packages, add-ons, and turnaround timelines.
- If someone is slow to respond, hard to reach, or unclear in their messaging, that will likely continue throughout the working relationship. Choose someone who makes you feel heard from the start.
What It’s Like Working With Jonathan Fanning Studio & Gallery
Jonathan Fanning takes care of the pre-work so you can enjoy your event. Our process includes collaborative planning, venue visits when needed, and detailed conversations to ensure we’re aligned with your goals.
If you’re looking for a reliable, creative, and experienced local photographer in the St. Petersburg–Clearwater metro, we’d love to connect. Reach out today or explore more of our work to see what we can do.
