So Many Options! Who Is My Perfect Family Photographer?
Choosing the perfect family photographer can seem like a daunting task. A search of Spokane family photographers on Google or Facebook shows many different options. These five simple tips can help find the best fit for your family.
TIP 1 – WHAT EDITING STYLE ARE YOU LOOKING FOR?
A great family photographer will have an defined editing style. The most common styles currently are clean, bold/vibrant, light and airy, or dark and moody. Each photographer has learned how to perfect their own individual style. Don’t be afraid of asking photographers for a complete sample gallery. If a photographer’s style isn’t to your liking, there is nothing wrong with asking for a referral to someone else. Often we already have other professional photographers we refer prospective clients to if they request a style or type of session we don’t offer.
TIP 2 – IS THE PHOTOGRAPHER YOU ARE LOOKING AT A LICENSED BUSINESS OWNER?
The state of Washington requires all photographers to have at minimum a state business license. Some counties and cities also have their own licenses or endorsements that a photographer may be required to hold. As a result, Washington State makes this easy though the following website: https://secure.dor.wa.gov/gteunauth/_/#5
All you need to do is type in the name of the photography business, and it will let you know if they are licensed to operate within the state.
TIP 3 – POSED VERSUS LIFESTYLE/PROMPTED PHOTOGRAPHY
Many photographers specialize in a specific photography style. You’ll want to choose someone that specializes in the type of photography you imagine displaying on your walls. Lifestyle and prompted photography aim for capturing your family in natural environments. This may include things like playing games, like “Simon Says,” or chasing parents around the park. Posed photography is where the photographer will direct you into a specific poses. This allows the photographer to have more control over the situation. Many photographers choose to combine posed and prompted photography giving your gallery a variety of options for you to choose from.
TIP 4 – STUDIO VERSUS OUTSIDE/ON-LOCATION PHOTOGRAPHY
Think about perfect location for family photos. Are you imagining indoors with a backdrop? Against a white wall? Outside in a field? Up on top of a mountain? Or maybe your perfect location is at your own house. Some photographers specialize in only studio or only on-location photography. As you are going through your search, check to see which options they offer to guarantee the right fit.
TIP 5 – WHAT IS YOUR BUDGET?
Often budget is ultimately how many people choose a photographer, but this should be one of the last things you look at before making your final choice. First, often photographers will not have their prices listed on their website or Facebook. But don’t worry this doesn’t automatically mean they are out of your budget. Moreover, photographers, just like clients, want to make sure we are a good fit for each other.
Second, we want to know what you are looking for in a session so we can quote you accurately. Some photographers have packages, while others have a la carte pricing. So, even if they are a little out of budget, see if they have a payment plan available. In general, you can expect to pay a session fee or non-refundable retainer, and sign a contract up front to secure your date and time.
Good luck in your search, and I hope you find these tips helpful in choosing your perfect family photographer! If you are looking an on-location family photographer in the Spokane, Washington, Northern Idaho, or Western Montana area take a look at my family sessions and pricing page. If you have any questions or comments please feel free to contact me!
