When you are having your photos taken you want to be comfortable with the person taking your photos. Photography is an art, and you need the right artist for your family. You need to be able to trust that person to do her job so she can do it well and you can relax and enjoy the experience. So how to do you choose the right photographer for your family?
It seems easy and obvious that you want to like your photographer. But how do you find someone you like? How do you know the photographer is right for your family? How can you ensure you’re investing your time and money with the right person?
As both a mom of 6 (who has hired many photographers) and a Seattle family and newborn photographer myself, I’m sharing tips on choosing a photographer.
The first step of how to choose a photographer is to ask friends for recommendations from their own experience.
I do not mean post in Facebook land or a random group asking for a photographer. That way you’re sure to get 200 recommendations. This can lead to complete overwhelm when trying to decide how to choose a photographer. You’d be no closer to finding the right photographer.
Instead, ask a few of your closest friends, ones with taste like yours, who understand you and your family. They can suggest who they’ve used and tell about their honest experience with a photographer.
If your friends have not had family photos taken in several years then try a Google search using towns and cities near you, or even using keywords like “relaxed family photo session” or “fun family photo session” to key into the type of photographer you are looking for.
Check out the photographer’s social media pages.
Social media like Instagram and Facebook are a great way to test the waters. Social media tends to be a little more casual than a website, so it is a great way to start getting a feel for your potential photographers. Read through a few posts, see their work, and even watch some IG stories to see behind the scenes or them with their guard down a little bit.
Another step in how to choose a photographer is to explore photographer’s websites.
You can learn a lot about your photographer just from their website. Look at their style of photography (do you like their work). Whatever they showcase on their website is what they will create for you. For example, If you prefer highly posted photography with everyone smiling at the camera, looking around my website you can immediately see I’m not the photographer for you. However, if you’re looking for a photographer who will create joyful, playful photos with a relaxed approach, I would be a good choice for your family.
Pages not to miss included, About Me, Session Information, Portfolios, and even their blog.
The next step in choosing a photographer is to contact the photographer.
Often by doing the above things you just know that you can’t wait to work with a photographer. However, should you still have a few questions about the processes, what to expect, or anything else, reach out. Let the photographer know your questions and that you’re looking for the right fit.
Book your photographer and trust in your choice.
Now that you’ve done your research and know what to look for, book that photographer and trust in them. You chose this photographer for a reason. Trust in them. Utilize any guides they offer and show up picture day knowing they will do just as you expect from your research. Enjoy the experience and get photos of your family you truly love!
Have you taken the time to look around my site? Do you think we’d be a good fit for each other? Then click the button below and book your family session! I cannot wait to work with your family!