6 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Private Photo Editor

If right now you’re thinking, “I’ve got to edit and deliver these photos but I’m getting behind and I’m exhausted!” then you are at the point where you could use a private photo editor.

Hiring a private photo editor can feel like a big step for wedding and portrait photographers. It can be tough to let go of something you have built your photography business around.

I’ve got you!

Asking the right questions when hiring a private photo editor can save you a TON of time and help you decide who is the best fit for your photography business. Here are six questions you should ask when hiring a private photo editor.

Color correction, brush work, culling and retouching may or may not be provided by each private photo editor. And many times those things will have different price points.

Usually you can find this information on their website. If not, don't hesitate to reach out. Editors are always happy to share what services they provide.

Using the same editing software is key so be sure to find out which one they use. (Especially with Lightroom since there are two versions.) There are editors who will be able to provide services for just about every editing software out there.

For example, I offer editing services for Lightroom Classic only. It doesn’t play well with other softwares—and often not even its sister-programs like Lightroom mobile or ACR. 🤦🏻‍♀️

Ha, that would be too easy!

You might need to purchase other programs/services as well. For example, some file transfer systems require both parties to pay for a Pro account. Not all of them do, but be sure to find out upfront so you understand all the costs involved with working with an editor.

With my clients, I use WeTransfer so that they don’t have to pay extra for us to send files back and forth.

Turnaround time to return to you an edited catalog will vary from editor to editor. Asking this question will help you decide if the time it takes will fit with your goals for your photography business.

Anchor images are reference images you've edited so the editor knows how you want the rest of the images to be edited. Some photo editors require them and some don't. Depending on how much you want to be involved in the process will determine which service you need.

I currently require anchor images from clients. I’ve found that for my business it’s the best way to cut out any confusion between me and my clients when matching their editing style.

I highly recommend having a consultation prior to hiring an editor so you can get a feel for them as a person. A video chat or phone call will help you determine if your personalities will work well together.

You could ask for a trial run as well. That way you can go through the process of what it would be like to work with them.

I offer video consultations so I can understand what a photographer needs in their photo editing. I also offer a complimentary trial run, if desired.

These six questions will get you started on your way to finding a private photo editor.