How do you start your search for a family photographer? How can you choose one and know it’s the right choice? Are you completely overwhelmed by the huge number of photographers that come up when you search on Google or Instagram? There are so many, with such a variety of styles and price points that it can be difficult to make a decision. Here are 5 tips: questions to ask yourself and things to do before you choose a professional photographer for your family portraits.
1. Do you want studio portraits or an on location session?
While both of these session types have their place, you need to decide what appeals to you, as well as what makes sense for your family. If your children are small, a summer sunset session might be out of the question since the sun sets so late, whereas during the spring or fall, an outdoor session may work better.
redwagon offers both! The natural light studio is calm and neutral and is a warm and welcoming. The field is a great bit of nature in Edmonton’s south-central side and has long grasses and beautiful trees. Sessions at the field always take place in the last hour and half before sunset – that’s where the yummy light comes from!
2. What do you want your session to feel like?
Do you like traditional posing with everyone looking at the camera? Or do you prefer more natural, connected images? Again, there is no right or wrong answer here. Each photographer has their own vision and style, so whatever your preference there is a photographer out there who is a perfect fit!
A redwagon session will always deliver images with everyone looking at the camera and smiling, but that is not my focus. I want to create images that show authentic interaction: love and snuggles and giggles.
3. Do you just want your digital files?
Do you have the time and the skills to order prints and other product that you want from your session if your photographer only offers digital files?Even with the best of intentions, images often don’t make it off the USB. We are all so busy that finding time to even just sit down and order some prints online sometimes seems impossible. A few hours to design an album? Fuggetaboutit. The pictures get posted on Insta and you get some hearts for a few days, but then what?
It’s so important to have printed images of your family and your special relationships. Your kids deserve to see how much you love them without having to boot up a computer or turn on a device. Do you remember how much fun it was to look back at albums or shoeboxes full of memories from your childhood? Don’t your children deserve those same experiences? A full service photographer will guide you through product selection and help you determine what will work best in your home. It also ensures that you get the best quality and results from your images.
At your Order and Design appointment, I’ll help you create heirloom artwork with your session images. If you’re looking for wall art for a blank wall in your home, or an album, or something else, I will guide you in selecting the best images and creating cohesive art that you’ll be proud to showcase in your home!
4. Find a photographer that you really connect with
When you look at a photographer’s portraits can you see yourself in them? Are they images that you would love to have of you and your family? Of your children? If the answer is yes, dig a little deeper. Look for testimonials from previous clients on their website, check out Facebook and Google reviews. This will give you an idea of what they are really like to work with. Then, talk to them. For reals. Pick up the phone or schedule a “Get to Know You” meeting. Make sure that you click and your personalities are a fit.
Get in touch to schedule a pre-session consultation at redwagon’s studio! It’s a relaxed, no-pressure affair – you’re simply invited to drop by for a coffee and chat! It allows you to meet me person, see the studio, and look thorough my client wardrobe. You’re also able to see the heirloom albums, fine art prints and custom wall art options that includes canvas, frames and wood mounts. It’s a great way for me to learn about your family and what your hopes are for your session. For you, it’s an opportunity to make sure I’m exactly what you’re looking for, both in a photographer and for your portrait experience.
5. Look at the photographer’s blog, not just their portfolio
While a portfolio is a great way to get an idea of the style of the photographer, a blog will give you a more in depth look at different sessions. Because a portfolio will only highlight the very best from each session, looking at blog posts will give you a better idea of what your complete session will look like and the variety in images you can expect.
Great tips! I’m sure all your clients will find this so helpful.
Thank you! 😀