Why oh why!

Why do you have to take your time while choosing your photographer to work with.

Because it is a lot of work.

Our role as photographers is easy. Well, ok “easy”  ;).  Create pictures that will give you positive emotions. That you, simply saying, will just like. And because everybody likes different things, you really have to look for one that will fit you!

Each photographer has their own style, skill set, and personality that translates into their work.

So what you should consider when searching for a family photographer?

Editing style

It can be a natural, airy and light look, can be dark and moody, black and white, fantasy-like etc. So many to choose from!

Scroll those feeds, scroll those walls and galleries. Check how the work of the photographer looks and do you like it. Are they consistent, or maybe their work varies? Which one speaks to you? Think about what you like the most in their galleries, and talk about that with the photographer. If you see that majority of their gallery is moody and dark, do not expect that your pictures will be different, as long as you will not mention that before.

Location, location, location.

It can be city view, nature, it can be inside or outside. Choices, choices, choices.

Some photographers are working only in the location of their choice. Because they know exactly how the space works. They know how light works in that space, they know all the spots, but also they know the surroundings. So, like in my case, I know on which of my locations we can meet cows, where dogs can run loose, or where are playgrounds, so we can spoil your kids after the shoot.

But maybe you want to do the photo shoot in a place that has some meaning to you? That is also possible! Maybe you want to do it at your home? Yes, please!

Clothing

There are different ways to approach this subject. One thing is for sure:  in documentary photography clothing is left fully to you. Photographers do not give you any hints, ideas or such. Because we are documenting you as you are. On the other hand in lifestyle, studio, or fine art photography – choice of clothing translates strongly into the end product (so into your pictures). A lot of photographers will send emails with ideas what to wear, some do’s and don’ts. Some will go shopping with you, some will help you with choosing clothes from your own wardrobe and some will offer you a choice of clothes from so-called “client’s closet” (set of clothes that you can borrow for the photo shoot). All in all it is an important topic to discuss and to think about. When you see photographers galleries, vibes that you are getting come also from the colours you see and these, in the majority, come from clothes that clients are wearing.

Your expectations

Very important is also to think about what you would like to see when you will receive your gallery. Do you have any special reason for the photo shoot, or you have special requests? Do you want to make a photo shoot to have pictures to hang on the wall, or maybe for a Christmas card? Do you want to show your special connection, or maybe how amazingly you look together? Are you doing a photo shoot because of some special milestone in your family, or just because you want to have something to look at and see how are you changing? Talk with your photographer about this topic, it will reassure you both that you are on the same page and that the end product will be amazing.

Is that all?

Just the most important stuff. You also have to consider topics like budget, packages, contracts, but we will talk about that in other posts. For now, just focus on the above.

So many things to consider! It is a tough job – but worth every minute you put into it. You will find your favourite photographer that will create pictures for you that you and your family will cherish for a very long time.

I know that it can be overwhelming, so send me a message if you have any questions or ideas for the session, and let’s capture some memories for you together!