What Most People Wish They Knew Before Booking a Photographer in Colorado

Honest advice from behind the lens

A lot of people think booking a photographer is simple. You find someone with a beautiful portfolio, choose a date, show up, smile, and walk away with great photos.

After photographing hundreds of people—from couples and families to solo portraits and personal branding—I’ve learned something important: most clients come in with quiet worries they don’t always say out loud.

They wonder what to wear. They’re nervous about looking stiff. They’re not sure how it’s all supposed to work, or if they’ll even like how they look in the final photos.

I wanted to share a few things I’ve learned—what I wish every client knew before booking a photographer in Colorado. These are the things that make the experience smoother and the memories more meaningful.

1. Booking a photographer in Colorado: The experience matters just as much as the photos

Beautiful photos are important. But how you feel during the session is just as important, if not more.

When a session is rushed, awkward, or overly staged, it shows. But when you feel at ease, seen, and allowed to be yourself, your real personality comes through. That’s where the magic lives.

You just need to feel like yourself. It's my job to guide.

2. The best locations aren’t always the ones you see on Instagram

Colorado is full of gorgeous spots. But you don’t need the most “epic” background to get stunning photos.

In fact, many of my favorite images have come from quiet, overlooked places—spaces with fewer distractions, more privacy, and beautiful natural light. I’ll help you choose a location that fits the mood you’re looking for and works well for lighting, movement, and comfort.

It’s about how it feels, and how you feel in it.

3. Outfits matter, but not as much as you think

It’s easy to spiral when planning what to wear. Coordinating colors, textures, weather, background… it adds up quickly.

What matters most is that you feel good in what you’re wearing. Confidence photographs beautifully. Neutral tones and earth colors tend to work well outdoors, but comfort and authenticity matter more than perfection.

Wear something that feels like you, and you're on the right track.

4. Editing style makes a big impact

Every photographer sees the world a little differently, and that comes through in editing. Some go for dark and moody, others bright and filtered. I personally aim for something honest, clean, and timeless.

I want your images to feel natural and true to how the moment really looked and felt. Not overly trendy. Not something that will feel dated in a few years.

Choose a style you’ll still love when you look back a decade from now.

5. The connection between us matters more than you realize

One thing I always tell people: you’re not just hiring someone to take your picture. You’re inviting someone into your story for an hour or two—sometimes longer. That connection shapes everything. I want you to feel heard, seen, and supported every step of the way. From our first message to the final gallery, I’m here to help you feel relaxed and confident in front of the camera.

The best sessions feel like real moments, shared with someone you trust.

Final thoughts

Booking a photographer shouldn’t be just another to-do. It’s a chance to celebrate this moment in your life—whatever it looks like—and turn it into something you’ll treasure.

If this summer feels like the right time to finally book that session you’ve been thinking about, I’d be honored to help make it happen.

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Booking for 2025/2026 is open. Get in touch → www.swentenphotovideo.com/contact