As a family photographer, I know choosing the best family photographer in Arizona can be tricky because there are so many amazing options. And there are so many things to consider to make sure you find someone you like working with and meets your needs. I’ve compiled questions to ask yourself as you search for the best family photographer to take your family photos.
Questions to Ask Yourself when Choosing a Family Photographer
Do you like the photographer’s style?
There are lots of things to think about with style when looking for a family photographer. When you view their photos on Instagram, Facebook or their website do you like what you see, does it match your decor, and personal aesthetic? Generally what you’re looking at is whether or not their editing style is appealing to you.
Are their colors bold and rich? Light and airy? Dark and moody? True to color? Warm? Is their style modern or vintage/filmy? There are so many options here for how a photographer may capture and edit the photos and once they’ve chosen a style for their art, they aren’t generally going to change that style for each session.
My advice here is, if you like a photographer, but don’t like the look of their editing, find someone else to capture your memories. Neither you, nor the photographer will be happy if you’re asking them to edit the images differently from their established style.
A few examples of different editing styles:
Another thing to look at in a photographer’s style is how they capture families. Do they mostly share photos of families all looking at the camera smiling? Or do they share a lot of detail shots, and interaction between family members? If you like photos where everyone’s looking at the camera it’s best not to schedule a session with someone who doesn’t share these kinds of images.
Will their session flow work for your family?
Most photographers will explain how their sessions work via their website, email communications with prospective clients and Instagram or Facebook. If your kids can’t sit still for long, then a photographer who focuses on spending a lot of time getting everyone posed perfectly may not be the best choice.
Do they describe their sessions as fun, playful, and chaotic, or calm, and peaceful? Depending on what your family is like, one of those may be a better option. Considering how a family photographer runs their sessions, will make for a much more enjoyable and less stressful experience.
Is there something unique about the photographer that appeals to you?
You’re trusting this person to be involved in capturing some very important moments of your life. It can feel very vulnerable. When choosing a photographer, it's helpful to work with someone you connect with in some way. Maybe you have something in common with them (you’re both nurses, experienced infertility or something else). Whatever it is, having any type of connection with your photographer, will help you and your family open up and trust this person to capturing you in the best way possible.
Most photographers understand that you want to know about us on a personal level and so share details about ourselves on social media and our websites. You can also get a feel for your photographer by reading reviews from past clients either on their website or Google. Pay particular attention to how former clients will describe how the photographer made them feel and what was unique about working with them.
What does the photographer deliver after a session?
Does the family photographer you’re looking at have an offer for images that lines up with what you’re looking for? Are you looking for prints to hang on your walls, or albums? Do you want digital images you can share to social media? Do you want a combination of both?
There are lots of options for what photographers may offer in terms of number of images, download options, and printing services. Really think about how you’re going to use these images. Do you want you and your kids to see them every day? Then find someone who focuses on providing high quality print products. Honing in on what you really want to do with your images will help you choose the perfect photographer.
What’s your budget?
I actually think this is the least important of the things to consider, but I don’t think you should be going into debt to pay for your family photos. If a photographer has aligned with all of the other items listed above, then it’s going to be worth paying them what they’re asking because their service is going to be perfectly tailored for your family.
In the scenario where their fees are above your budget, you can consider saving up for the session. A photographer who meets most, if not all of your needs, is worth it. Plus, it’s likely if you prioritize a “cheap” price you won’t be happy with the experience or the photos you receive.
Conclusion
These questions will provide a good foundation for choosing the best Arizona family photographer! And I’d love to be considered if my services meet your needs. Reach out and let’s get the process started for planning the perfect session for your family!
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