Begin with Quality and Expertise

When selecting a family photographer, prioritize quality. Even if the deal sounds tempting, redoing the process due to unsatisfactory results is not ideal. To assess the photographer's quality of work, a robust portfolio and diverse client galleries are essential. Consistency in tone, exposure, and editing style across all images is a good indicator of quality. Focus on well-lit, well-composed images that capture subjects in a flattering manner. The images should be inspiring and reflect the subjects' unique personalities.

While style plays a role in the final gallery's appearance, the photographer should also showcase technical expertise. Consistently delivering high-quality portraits under varying conditions demands substantial experience, beyond what an amateur photographer can offer.

Family of Five in Fall Foliage Family Photography

2. Think about your style & vision

When searching for a photographer, it's crucial to find someone with both quality and expertise, but also a style that resonates with you and your life. Consider the type of images you prefer, whether it's classic studio portraits or natural-light, on-location shots.

It's essential to pick a photographer whose portfolio aligns with your vision. Explore their websites, blogs, and social media to gauge if their style is consistent and well-established or if they follow fleeting trends.
Focus on your desired outcome for the final products. Avoid being swayed by current trends as what's popular today may not suit your long-term preferences. Invest in family portraits that will stand the test of time on your walls and in albums.
After shortlisting photographers who match your criteria for quality, expertise, style, and vision, engage in a discussion with them to plan your session and communicate your goals. It's important for them to understand your expectations to determine if they can deliver.
_I trust this has sparked ideas for your upcoming family session. If you have any queries, feel free to reach out.

Parents Playing with Young Kids on Rocks with Mountains in Background

3. Your Keepsakes

To enjoy your images and achieve your desired outcome, consider the following:

For a Facebook gallery or digital files for Instagram, a "shoot & burn" photographer is suitable. These photographers provide a link to download images or a USB drive with session files.
Opting for professionally shot portraits indicates a desire for long-term enjoyment through high-quality albums, framed photographs, and canvases.
Full-service photographers have connections with professional labs, album binders, and framers, making it convenient for you to obtain art pieces to cherish, display daily, and pass down through generations.
Some popular collectible products include:
- Framed Wall Galleries: Custom-designed galleries tell your story and enhance your space with warmth and memories.
- Gallery Wrapped Canvases: Professionally printed on canvas and wrapped around a custom-made wood stretcher frame for a statement piece or a cluster for a wall gallery.
- Heirloom Albums: Featuring all your images on real photographic paper, custom bound, and hand-finished for a unique family keepsake.
- Folio Boxes: Available in small and large sizes, these linen boxes hold matted images for easy display and rotation.
- Gift Prints: Simple framed or loose prints make ideal gifts for loved ones.
Creating beautiful heirloom keepsakes for families is a passion. If you're interested in learning more about my products, please reply to this email or give me a call. I'd be delighted to share some samples with you.

Family Photos Framed and Showcased in Family Living Room

4. In it for the long haul

When it comes to hiring professionals, do you explore different options or stick with one? Building a long-term relationship with your photographer has its advantages.

They understand you well, your preferences, and your family dynamics. Your children and partner become familiar and at ease with them. This familiarity eliminates any awkward moments in your photos and deepens trust and creativity with each interaction. If you have a shy child, why not let them anticipate seeing their familiar friend instead of building a new relationship every year? This anticipation reflects in your photos, adding an extra spark.
They offer a diverse range of products, allowing you to match frames from this year with your previous year’s wall gallery. They are aware of your holiday card needs, album preferences, and your gift list. With them, there are no surprises, ensuring you always receive what you desire.
Consistency is key. We all appreciate predictability and value those we can rely on. By establishing a consistent partnership with a family photographer, you will know the entire process from the photo session to the final delivery, enabling you to relax and enjoy the experience.

5. Value of Photography

When choosing a photographer, price should be the last factor you consider. I know... I can almost hear the collective groan: “Seriously? What if I have a list of photographers that are out of my budget?"

Firstly, you need to define what "afford" means to you. Custom photography is undoubtedly an investment, but it's also a luxury expense. Everyone has varying levels of saved or disposable income that can be allocated to a session. When setting your budget, consider whether you tend to save or splurge, or if you are flexible and will decide after seeing the images. Also, think about your goals for the final products: wall art, a few specific prints, a keepsake album. Understanding your needs and wants will help you determine your spending with a specific photographer.
You might have a budget that allows you to buy all the images from a mediocre-quality photographer or select some images, but exactly what you need, from an exceptional one. Avoid fixating on having "all" before knowing what "all" entails.
It's reluctantly and with a sigh that I mention, with most budget photographers, "you get what you pay for." In many cases, if you don't invest in someone with experience, quality, expertise, style, and vision, you'll receive images that mirror just that. Nevertheless, there are skilled photographers in every price range who cater to various budgets. Through research, patience, and possibly a referral, you can find one that meets all your criteria.
Remember, photography is an investment; make the most of it.