NYC Photos; A Visitor's Guide to Pro On-Location Photography
Exploring New York City can indeed be an exhilarating experience, filled with a whirlwind of activities ranging from sightseeing tours to Broadway shows and museum visits. Amidst all the excitement, however, arranging for personalized services such as hiring a photographer may require a bit more consideration. Beyond simply capturing moments, a skilled photographer can serve as your guide, leading you to hidden gems and offering unique perspectives of the city that you might not have otherwise discovered. This article is designed to serve as a comprehensive guide for visitors seeking professional photography services while touring the Big Apple, with a focus on on-location shoots. Please note that this guide does not cover in-studio photography work. Whether you're looking to capture iconic landmarks or intimate moments against the city skyline, here are some key factors to keep in mind when hiring a photographer during your visit to New York City.
On location in Manhattan’s Seaport District. Shearer Portraits
Booking through Intermediaries
Opting to book through third-party platforms like Snappr or Upwork might seem convenient at first glance. These platforms boast an array of photographers and offer straightforward booking processes with transparent rates. However, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons. While the booking process may be seamless, intermediaries often levy high fees, which can deter experienced photographers from listing their services. Moreover, higher-caliber photographers, albeit newer or less outgoing, may not find these platforms conducive for showcasing their work effectively.
Pros:
Convenient booking process with transparent rates
Wide selection of photographers to choose from
Streamlined payment and scheduling system
Cons:
High fees imposed by intermediaries
Experienced photographers may avoid these platforms
Limited ability to assess photographer's personality and rapport
Price Point: $250 - $600
Hiring On-Site
In tourist hubs like Times Square (check out this article on Times Square Hustles) and the Brooklyn Bridge, hiring a photographer on-site is a tempting option. These photographers, often stationed on every corner, specialize in capturing iconic shots with these iconic backdrops (check out this guide to the cities best locations with skylines). The allure lies in their expertise in crafting Instagram-worthy photos with well-honed settings and lighting techniques. However, while convenient, this approach may not suit everyone's preferences. If you seek a more personalized or unique experience beyond the typical tourist snapshots, it's advisable to explore other options.
Pros:
Specialized in capturing iconic shots of tourist hotspots
Expertise in crafting Instagram-worthy photos
Convenience of on-the-spot booking and delivery of digital images
Cons:
Limited scope for customization or personalization
May not cater to niche preferences or photography styles
Quality of photos may vary among on-site photographers
Price Point: $20 - $30
Hiring a NYC Photographer Directly
One of the advantages of hiring a photographer through a Google search is the ability to conduct thorough research before your trip. By browsing portfolios and customer reviews, you can gauge a photographer's style, reputation, and suitability for your specific needs. This method allows you to take your time and ensure that the photographer's offerings align with your vision, whether it's for capturing candid street scenes, architectural marvels, or intimate portraits against the city skyline. We recommend speaking with the photographer ahead of time to ensure that they will be a good fit. This will also allow you to see if they can create a package that matches your needs and budget.
Pros:
Extensive research capabilities to find the perfect photographer
Access to detailed portfolios and customer reviews
Ability to assess photographer's style and reputation
Cons:
Time-consuming process of vetting multiple photographers
Prices may vary widely, making it challenging to determine value
Price Point: $250 - $1,200
Conclusion
Ultimately, the decision of how to hire a photographer during your visit to New York City depends on your priorities and preferences. Whether you opt for the convenience of intermediary platforms, the expertise of on-site photographers, or the thorough vetting process of Google searches, the goal remains the same—to immortalize your New York City experience through stunning photographs that capture the essence of this dynamic metropolis.
Of course we would love you to consider booking Shearer Portraits while you are in town but we know that we may not be right for everyone. If not, we have a number of great photographers who we would recommend with differing styles!
