Choosing a portrait photographer isn’t just about getting someone with a good camera. It’s about finding someone who can capture your personality, your presence, and your story—someone who sees more than just a face. If you’ve ever looked at a photo and felt like it told a complete story, then you’ve seen what the right photographer can do. But how do you make sure you’re picking the right one?
In this post, we’ll walk you through some simple but key things to look for when hiring a portrait photographer, based on what makes Harry Giglio stand out in the field.
Understand the Photographer’s Style
Not all photographers shoot the same way. Some go for dramatic lighting, some prefer a natural look, others lean toward commercial polish. Before choosing a portrait photographer, look at the kind of portraits they specialize in.
Harry Giglio, for instance, has built his career on capturing emotional depth through light and thoughtful composition. His ability to create “photographic worlds” rather than just images is a big part of what makes his work stand out. His style tends to blend artistic storytelling with technical expertise, which is evident across all his portrait work.
Check the Range of Services
Portrait photography covers a lot of ground—headshots, editorial portraits, commercial shots, even travel portraits. A good photographer should offer a range of services while maintaining a consistent quality and style.
Harry Giglio’s service list includes:
- Corporate Photography
- Editorial Photography
- Commercial Photography
- Headshot Photography
- Magazine Photography
- Portrait Photography
- Travel Photography
If you need a professional headshot, a creative editorial portrait, or even travel-related photography, you want to go with someone who has a strong handle on multiple formats. A wide service range means flexibility, but also a depth of experience.
Look at Testimonials and Reviews
What others say about a photographer gives you a good idea of what to expect. Are past clients impressed with the final images? Do they mention professionalism, creativity, reliability?
Harry Giglio’s testimonials paint a picture of a photographer who goes beyond expectations. Comments from long-term clients like Terri McKay, who’s worked with him for 30 years, highlight his consistent ability to bring importance to any subject. Others mention his technical skill—like camera tilts, light use, and multi-camera setups—that elevate his work from standard to artistic.
Some testimonials stand out:
- “He doesn’t take pictures, he creates photographic worlds.” – Tom Megalis
- “He seems to so easily find the space where technical mastery emerges as fine art.” – Michael Coyne
- “Whether it be a portrait or filming a commercial, his work is TOP NOTCH.” – Terri Middleton
Feedback like this shows a consistent level of quality and a personal approach to each shoot.
Evaluate Technical Skills
Technical ability isn’t just about knowing how to use a camera—it’s about knowing how to control light, frame a subject, and set the mood of a photo.
Harry’s work is often praised for his use of lighting and composition. Reviews describe his approach as “painting with light” and mention the creative use of angles. These elements matter a lot in portrait photography, where how someone is lit and positioned can change the feel of the entire image.
Look for samples where the photographer uses light to bring emotion to the image, not just clarity. See how they frame the subject—tight, loose, eye-level, or dramatic angles. Harry’s ability to adapt these tools depending on the shoot shows a level of mastery that separates a good photo from a memorable one.
Personality and Professionalism
The interaction between the subject and the photographer can affect the final portrait. A relaxed subject leads to a natural photo. So, personality and communication skills matter more than most people think.
One reviewer said, “Awesome photographer, super talented… honored to have met him in person.” This tells you a lot about Harry’s way of working—not just technically, but how he relates to clients. While another reviewer found the service good but not friendly, this stands as an outlier among a list of otherwise enthusiastic and long-term clients.
You want someone who can make you feel comfortable, especially in portrait sessions. If you’re stiff or self-conscious, that shows in the photos. Choose a photographer who knows how to guide, talk, and connect during the shoot.
Check for Location and Accessibility
Where the photographer is based can be important for planning a session, especially if you’re looking for in-person services.
Harry Giglio works out of 16 Terminal Way in Pittsburgh, PA. Having a clear address, phone number (412-480-1191), and a direct email (harry@harrygigliophotography.com) adds a layer of professionalism. He’s also accessible via platforms like Facebook, Vimeo, LinkedIn, and Twitter—so he’s easy to reach.
Local photographers with established studios or workspaces give you options for both indoor and outdoor portraits, and it’s convenient to plan follow-up sessions or meetings if needed.
Conclusion
A portrait isn’t just a photo—it’s a visual story about who you are. Choosing the right portrait photographer means looking at their style, range, reviews, and personality. It’s about trusting someone to represent you with accuracy and artistry.
If you want portraits that feel as important as they look, Harry Giglio delivers. From editorial work to commercial and corporate portraits, his ability to craft meaningful images stands out. Visit his site to view his services or reach out directly to start your own session.