Editing Style: Does Their Style Match Your Vision?
Editing style is one of the most important aspects to consider when choosing a photographer. Different photographers have different editing approaches, so it’s crucial to find one whose style aligns with your vision.
Light & Airy vs. Dark & Moody: Photographers may have a light and airy editing style, with soft colors and bright, clean photos, or they might favor a dark and moody look with deeper tones and rich shadows. My editing would be considered bold and true to color, usinf natural light to emphasize my subjects and their details.
Consistency: A professional photographer will have a consistent editing style that they apply to every shoot. Check out their portfolio to make sure their editing style matches what you’re looking for.
Skin Tones & Realism: Pay attention to how they edit skin tones and other natural details. Are subjects posed, looking at the camera? Or are they candid and natural? Which do you prefer for your photos? My sessions are playful and connection based
2. Client Closet: Does the Photographer Offer Wardrobe Options?
When planning a family photoshoot, one of the things that can make or break the final images is what everyone wears. Many family photographers offer a client closet, which is a wardrobe collection that you can borrow for the session. This is particularly helpful for those who may feel stressed about picking out outfits or finding something that matches the overall aesthetic of the shoot.
Benefits of a Client Closet: A client closet can save you time, reduce stress, and ensure that everyone in your family is dressed in complementary, photogenic outfits.
What to Look For: Ask the photographer what types of clothing they offer in their client closet (e.g., dresses, suits, accessories) and if they have pieces suitable for all ages, including children.
Color Coordination: Some photographers provide wardrobe guidelines to help with color coordination, ensuring that the entire family looks cohesive without being overly matchy-matchy.
I offer a full client closet with dresses of all sizes for women and children. Clothes are selected because I know the colors and textures photograph well and flatter all body types. Client Closet includes pieces from Free Peopl, Reclamation, Gap, Jamie Kay, and many more.
Questionnaire: Does the photographer send one, and why is this important?
The best family photographers take time to understand your family’s dynamic, preferences, and style before the photoshoot. Many photographers send out a questionnaire prior to the session to get to know you better.
What’s Included: A good questionnaire will ask about your family’s interests, the type of photos you’re hoping for (e.g., candid vs. posed), and any special considerations (like children’s ages or needs).
Personalization: A photographer who asks thoughtful questions will be able to personalize the shoot to fit your family’s unique vibe. It also helps the photographer plan the session, whether you want outdoor photos or a cozy indoor session.
Expectations: Clarifying your expectations beforehand ensures that both you and the photographer are on the same page when it comes to style, mood, and setting.
I like to send out questionnaires before every session, even if I've photographed your family many times! Why? Because kids grow and interests change so frequently, understanding their interests helps me connect and gain trust during the session so they can be their best selves.
Experience with Kids: How Comfortable Are They with Young Children?
Photographing families with young children can be challenging, so it’s important to choose a photographer who has experience working with kids. Kids have their own pace, moods, and energy levels, and it’s important to find someone who can handle these aspects with ease. As a mom of 3 boys ages 3 month to 6 years, I understand chaos-Trust me! I have also been a pediatric nurse for 8 years in the pediatric ER, and pediatric imaging- so my experience ranges from newborns to teens with all types of medical problems and special needs.
Patience & Flexibility: A photographer with experience working with children knows how to keep them engaged and comfortable during the session. Look for someone who is patient and flexible when it comes to working with kids of various ages.
Comfort with Different Ages: Whether you have a newborn, a toddler, or older children, make sure the photographer is comfortable handling various age groups. They should know how to capture beautiful moments even if the kids are not always "posing" perfectly.
Creating a Fun Environment: A great family photographer knows how to make the session fun and interactive. They may use props, games, or other techniques to help your children feel at ease and keep them smiling.
Price: What’s Included in the Package?
Price is an essential factor in choosing a photographer, but it’s not just about finding the cheapest option. Family photography pricing can vary widely depending on location, experience, and the services provided. It’s important to understand what’s included in the price.
Session Fee: Some photographers charge a flat fee for the session, which may or may not include prints or digital images.
Product Packages: Ask if the photographer offers package options that include prints, albums, or digital downloads. Some photographers have separate fees for prints or products, so make sure you’re clear on what the total cost will be.
Deposit and Payment Plans: Ask about deposit requirements and whether the photographer offers payment plans to make it easier to manage the cost of the session.
Value vs. Price: Remember that with photography, you often get what you pay for. A higher price may reflect a photographer’s experience, skill, and attention to detail, which will pay off in the final photos. Photography is an investment that only grows more valuable!
Reviews: What Are Other Families Saying?
One of the best ways to gauge whether a photographer is the right fit for your family is by checking out reviews from previous clients. Reviews provide valuable insights into a photographer’s professionalism, quality of work, and how they interact with clients during the photoshoot.
Real Experiences: Reading real feedback from other families can give you a sense of what it’s like to work with the photographer, from booking the session to receiving the final images. Look for reviews that mention the photographer’s ability to make children feel comfortable, their punctuality, and how they handled special requests.
Online Platforms: Many photographers have testimonials on their website, but don’t forget to check out reviews on other platforms like Google, Facebook, or Instagram. These can offer a broader range of experiences, helping you get a more well-rounded view of what you can expect.
Look for Consistency: While one or two negative reviews may be a fluke, consistent praise in reviews is a strong indicator that a photographer is reliable and consistently delivers high-quality images. Pay attention to what people consistently mention about their experience—whether it's their friendly demeanor, creativity, or ability to capture authentic moments.
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