9 Steps to Choosing the Right Photographer for Your Family Portraits

We all know that family portraits are wonderful keepsakes that capture the essence of your family at a specific moment in time. That said, choosing the right photographer isn’t always easy! There are so many to choose from and picking the right one for you is crucial to ensure the end result is a collection of photographs you and your loved ones will treasure forever.

Here are the key criteria you should consider when researching family portrait photographers:

1. Photography Style

There are various styles of family photography including traditional portraiture, reportage and editorial. If you’re not sure which resonates with you most then head over to my quiz to determine your personal portrait style, then come right back and keep reading!

You’ll want to study the portfolios of potential photographers to see which style resonates with you. You’re looking for a portfolio that’s consistent in style and quality, as this is the mark of an experienced photographer who has honed their approach and aesthetic.

2. Experience and Expertise

Once you have identified a shortlist of favourites whose work is in line with your style, reach out and ask about their experience, specifically in family portraits. Seasoned photographers are more likely to handle unexpected situations with ease. The best photographers will likely specialise in specific types of family portraits e.g newborns, boudoir or natural outdoor sessions. Choose one whose niche aligns with your needs.

3. Personality and Rapport

Be brave and get on the phone or arrange a pre-session consultation to gauge their personality and whether it matches well with your family. If you have young children, you’ll likely feel more comfortable if you’re confident your photographer will have a good instinct when it comes to interacting with little people. Great family photographers will know how to engage with children to elicit genuine smiles and interactions. As a parent you’ll likely get a sense of whether that is the case this within minutes!

4. Reviews and Testimonials

Seek out reviews and testimonials from previous clients. Look for comments on their professionalism, punctuality, and ability to make the session enjoyable. Even in this digital age, word of mouth is still king! Recommendations from friends or family who have had positive experiences are always worth exploring.

5. Packages and Pricing

Get acquainted with their pricing structure, which will likely include a session fee and an additional price list for any digital or physical products. If the photographer doesn’t share their pricing, don’t be deterred. This is likely because they want to give potential clients more information face to face or over the telephone to make sure they are the best fit for you. Pop them an email and ask the question!

As will all things in life, higher prices usually reflect superior quality and service. Consider your budget, look at the level of service they are offering and be comfortable that their prices offer good value for you.

6. Flexibility and Availability

Ensure their availability aligns with your preferred dates and times. Discuss their flexibility regarding location choices, weather contingencies (the great british weather is not always our friend!) and willingness to accommodate any special requests you may have.

7. Turnaround Time

Ask how long you’ll need to wait to see your photographs after your portrait session. Will they be sent in an online gallery or presented in person? Your photographer should set expectations in terms of lead time for the initial gallery delivery/presentation as well as any products you are hoping to purchase.

8. Communication

Note their promptness in responding to your initial enquiry and willingness to communicate clearly. Ideally they should be asking you questions ahead of your photography session about your family and how you envisage sharing and displaying your family portraits. This information will help them to plan and execute your shoot more successfully and ensure they deliver on your expectations.

Ensure they provide clear contracts and policies on any deposits, cancellations and rescheduling.

9. Service Range

Make sure you understand what is included in the service offer the photographer is presenting to you. Do they offer physical prints, custom wall art or digital files?

Understand what level of support you can expect after your photography session, such as help with print selection and order placement. This is an important part of your photography experience and it is often not taken into consideration when selecting a photographer. It is very easy to become overwhelmed when trying to decide what to do with your gallery of photographs and having your photographer hold your hand and keep you focussed through this decision-making process can be exceedingly helpful. So many digital files are left to languish on a hard drive due to decision fatigue. Life quickly creeps back in after your portrait session and before you know it, those beautiful photographs you invested in have been all but forgotten. Ask your photographer what their aftercare process is and take this into account when making your decision.

Choosing the right family photographer involves careful consideration of these factors to ensure an enjoyable experience and beautiful, lasting memories. Taking the time to find a photographer who ticks all these boxes will make the investment worthwhile and I hope you found these 9 steps helpful.

If you’ve taken my quiz you’ll have an idea of what your portrait photography style is, so if you’re interested in finding out whether our styles align head over to my family portrait photography portfolio and check out my work!