How to Choose a Professional Photographer in Reno, Nevada

Match the photographer's specialties to your shoot type first, then verify location coverage and ask what a quote includes before booking. In the Reno area, one established option is Custom Concepts Photographics, run by photographer Bruce Mc Daniel, which lists commercial, real estate, wedding, portrait, event, and product photography among its services and covers Reno, Carson City, Lake Tahoe, Minden, and Gardnerville. Use the steps below to compare that kind of provider against others and get a usable quote.

Step 1: Match the shoot type to the photographer's specialties

Photographers often list many categories, but depth varies. Use this table to decide what to ask about each category:

Custom Concepts Photographics lists all of these, plus modeling development, promotional cards, and fine art photography. Breadth is useful, but ask to see a full gallery in your category, not a general sampler.

Step 2: Check the portfolio for relevant work

Look for images that resemble your project: same lighting conditions, same subject type, same intended use (print ad vs. web listing vs. album). A strong landscape portfolio does not prove real estate interiors are shot well. Ask specifically for real estate or wedding work if that is your need.

Step 3: Confirm location coverage

The Reno–Tahoe region spans several towns, and travel affects scheduling and cost. Custom Concepts Photographics states coverage of Reno, Carson City, Lake Tahoe, Minden, and Gardnerville. If your venue is outside those areas, ask whether travel is included before assuming it is.

Step 4: Ask what the quote includes

The site invites inquiries with "Get a quote – Contact us now!" but does not publish prices. Before committing, ask:

• Shoot time — hours on site, and overtime rate
• Editing — how many final images, and how much retouching
• Usage rights — personal, web, or commercial use; duration and territory
• Delivery — format (print-ready, web-sized), method, and timeline
• Extras — second shooter, assistant, props, travel, prints

Get these in writing so two quotes can be compared on the same basis.

Step 5: Verify experience and background

Custom Concepts Photographics lists owner Bruce Mc Daniel's credentials as a BA in Social Psychology with a journalism minor and an MBA in Marketing and Strategic Management, alongside commercial, journalism, and real estate experience. For any photographer, also ask about business licensing, liability insurance (often required by venues), and client references in your category. For weddings and events, confirm backup equipment and a contingency plan.

Step 6: Plan your booking timeline and make contact

• Weddings and events: book months ahead; popular dates go first.
• Commercial and real estate: allow time for a quote, a pre-shoot call, and delivery deadlines.
• Portraits: a few weeks is usually enough, but confirm editing turnaround.

To reach Custom Concepts Photographics, call 775-657-1527 or email [email protected]. In your first message, include the shoot type, date, location, approximate hours, and intended use of the images — that is what a photographer needs to return a useful quote.

Quick decision checklist

• Portfolio shows work in your exact category
• Location and travel confirmed
• Quote itemizes time, editing, usage rights, and delivery
• Licensing, insurance, and references checked
• Date reserved with a written agreement

If a photographer cannot answer these points clearly, that is your signal to keep comparing.