5 Tips For Choosing A Family Photographer
Southern California Family Photography | Laguna Beach, CA
Family Photos Are Never a Bad Idea
Sometimes, I receive client inquiries from the same families on an annual basis. On other occasions, I am told that this will be the first family photo taken together in ten years. Regardless of the frequency, there is no arguing that documenting a moment in time with your loved ones is of the upmost importance.
Families are diverse in size, age and personality. Below I have outlined my best recommendations for anyone attempting to gather and organize a family photo shoot experience that you’ll love.
Choose a family Photographer You Trust
When conducting research, I recommend looking for a family photographer with a robust portfolio, an active Instagram account, and a streamlined booking system. All of these elements point toward a photographer who understands that importance of a stress-free, high-quality photography experience for you as the client. While it is appropriate to text or send a Direct Message on Instagram for an initial inquiry, a trusted photographer will most likely take the conversation into a more streamlined virtual setting, like email or a booking portal. This is important because it ensures that your questions will be answered quickly and efficiently, and that the photographer will be able to share important booking materials with you.
Communicate
After contacting the photographer initially, understand that the time between contacting and the photo shoot itself is the best time to let the photographer in on your vision for the family photo shoot. Be sure that you like what you see on the photographer’s website and Instagram, especially when it comes to their editing style. Some things that are important to communicate to your photographer are:
Specific reasons for the photo shoot
Family dynamics and history
Family members with disabilities or difficulties with mobility
Coordinate Clothing
Properly planning wardrobe is essential for a gasp-worthy photo collection. Be sure to ask your photographer for recommendations on what colors, styles and combinations look best in front of the camera. My clients receive a Family Session Style Guide as part of their booking!
Manage Expectations
The most important thing about a family photo shoot is not the weather or perfect behavior from each family member—what is most important is that your family is together. What is important is that you chose to freeze this moment in time—a moment which can never be re-created. Because you have already taken initiative on steps 1 through 3 above, this fourth step just serves to say “relax and enjoy the moment.” You are in the hands of your trusted, chosen family photographer.
Make the Memories Last
It’s one thing to receive a digital collection from a photo shoot, but it’s another thing entirely to preserve these memories with luxurious portrait art products. For my clients, I believe in tangible printed art that fills your home and your soul. We are talking about more than a physical product! Portrait art represents a feeling, and a celebration of life! Your photos are meant to be shared and put on display, not stored away to collect virtual dust. If this is important to you, remember to choose a photographer who offers this service.
Now that you know what to look out for when it comes to choosing a family photographer, let’s chat! Use the button below to reach out.
