Top 5 Tips for Choosing Your Family Photographer

With so many photographers to choose from it can prove difficult to find the right fit for you and your family. I decided to take the time to make this post in hopes that it may help you weigh the pros and cons of your decision. Choosing the right professional family photographer can be the difference in complete satisfaction with your investment or feeling sadly let down.

Below I have compiled a list of my top 5 tips for finding your professional family photographer.

1. Consultations:

A proper consultation is a way for you to communicate your needs to your photographer and make sure that you are both on the same page. This should take place in either a private or quiet public location free from distraction. The goal is for the client to come prepared with their questions and the photographer should be able to address them then and there. Always look for a professional photographers that offer consultations.

2. Contracts:

A professional photographer always uses a contract, no exceptions. A contract is a way to protect both signing parties and to lay out everyones expectations in print. Contracts makes sure that everything that has been promised verbally is now in writing and will be followed through on or else legal action can be taken.

3. Portfolio:

Do not hire your photographer based upon one image. Sometimes amateur photographers will luck out and get one great image and it will be posted all over their website and social media. A professional photographer displays consistent amazing work over multiple sessions. They will have an editing style that speaks to you and all of their images will reflect a visual consistency. An inconsistent photographer shows one thing and delivers another, steer clear of this for the best result in your investment.

4. Products:

Does your family photographer offer professional printing? Do they have product displays to show you? Are the products high quality or do they look like something printed from a local pharmacy printer? Make sure you can look at, touch and feel the products offered. Make sure these are the type and quality products you want displayed in your home.

5. Delivery:

How are the images you purchased delivered? Does your photographer still give CD's or are they delivering your gallery in a modern digital fashion? Make sure your photographer is up to date with the times, these are professionals that are competing to offer you the best service possible.

I hope this helps even one family through the process of choosing who will capture your memories. Finding a professional is much easier when you know exactly what you're looking for. If any of these things are missing consider it a red flag and continue your search.