If you’re planning a special trip abroad and thinking of booking a local photographer, you might have a few questions in mind, especially if it’s your first time. Here are some of the most common ones I get from travelers who book me for sessions in Amsterdam, and a few things to keep in mind when choosing your photographer.

1. How do I know if a photographer’s style matches what I want?

Every photographer has a different way of seeing the world. Some focus on posed portraits, others love natural moments. I always recommend looking through their full portfolio, not just the highlights on Instagram. Pay attention to how they use light, the kind of places they photograph, and how people look in the photos: relaxed, elegant, playful, or artistic.

If what you see feels like how you want to remember your trip, you’re in the right place. On my website joannapantigoso.com, you’ll find full galleries from my sessions so you can see what a real experience looks like from start to finish.

2. What’s included in the session and what’s extra?

My sessions start at 45 minutes and can go up to 4.5 hours, depending on what you’d like to experience.

Shorter sessions are great if you want a focused photography experience. The longer Lifestyle Routes include more storytelling, we walk, explore, and I share history and local stories along the way.

Every session includes all the edited photos created within the booked time. I’m very exact with timing, and you’ll receive everything we make together, not just a limited number. When we work as a team, we always end up with more photos than we expect.

3. How many edited photos will I receive, and when?

You’ll receive all the selected and edited photos created during your session. Delivery time depends on the session length, but I always send a session within 7 business days. You’ll receive your images in an online gallery, ready to download in both high-resolution and web size.

4. Do you help with location ideas or route planning?

Yes, absolutely. Once you book, you’ll receive a questionnaire where you can tell me what kind of photos you want: romantic, fun, or relaxed, and I’ll suggest routes or create one just for you. If it’s your first time in Amsterdam, this is a great way to discover hidden spots and get a mix of iconic and quiet places.

5. Can you help with what to wear?

Yes! Depending on the season and weather, I’ll guide you on what to wear. Amsterdam’s weather changes quickly; sometimes you get four seasons in one day, so I always suggest dressing in layers and choosing shoes comfortable enough for walking. If you’re unsure, you can send me photos of your outfit options, and I’ll help you pick what works best for the location and light.

6. What happens if it rains?

Rain is part of Amsterdam’s charm. The day before your session, I check Buienradar, the most reliable local weather app, and if it looks like rain, I’ll message you to find a dry window.

Even 0.0 on the app can mean drizzle, but we can still photograph beautifully in light rain: reflections, umbrellas, and soft light often create some of my favorite images. If the weather turns very bad, we will simply move your session time within the date.

7. Do you help with posing, or is it more candid?

Both. Some people love clear posing guidance, while others prefer a candid, natural feel. Most of my clients are not models, and that’s completely normal. I’ll guide you so you look comfortable and natural in front of the camera. The goal is to make the experience enjoyable and to capture you as you are, in moments that feel real.

8. Are local taxes or travel fees included?

Local taxes are already included in the session price.

Travel fees only apply if your session takes place outside the A10 ring (the central area of Amsterdam). In that case, a transport fee or ticket cost is added. These are only confirmed and charged during the same week of your session, and payment is due on the session date.

9. How do payments work from abroad?

All payments are processed through Pixieset, a secure platform that accepts all major payment methods. Pixieset uses Stripe, one of the most trusted online payment systems, so your booking is safe and easy, no matter where you are in the world.

10. What should I look for in reviews before booking?

Look for comments about communication, reliability, and how clients felt during the session, not just about the photos. A good photographer makes you feel relaxed, helps you plan, and gives you confidence in front of the camera. When reading reviews, notice if people describe the experience as enjoyable, effortless, or meaningful. That’s usually a sign you’ll feel the same way.

If you’re planning a trip to Amsterdam and want to create photos that truly tell your story, you can explore my routes and session options here: joannapantigoso.com/amsterdam

See you soon in Amsterdam,

Joanna

Your Photographer in Amsterdam