Once you've decided to do a family session, and you've booked your photographer, the next steps can be a little challenging. What outfits do we wear? Have you picked out a location? Is there a back up or option to reschedule if it's raining? When is the decision made if it's raining?
Or perhaps you haven't even booked a photographer and you need to find one. Where do you start, where does someone find a family photographer? Many friends will encourage you to book their photographer, and thats not always a bad idea! Referrals are. 90% of our business and I promise you its appreciated. However, what if that photographer does portraits, and you want something more lifestyle..
Im hoping the next few paragraphs will be helpful and answer some of your questions.
First and foremost let's define the styles of family portraits. I personally think this will range for each person and photographer.
1. Lifestyle Photography - is a genre of photography that mainly aims to capture portraits of people in situations, real-life events or milestones in an artistic manner and the art of the everyday.
(taken from wikipedia , https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lifestyle_photography)
(note- just because lifestyle is considered to be "real life" do expect to still be instructed and posed to some extent. Even a little acting!
2. Portrait Photography- is a type of photography aimed toward capturing the personality of a person or group of people by using effective lighting, backdrops, and poses. (taken from wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portrait_photography)
3- Hiring by editing style-
a. Bright and airy
b. True to color
c. Moody
d. film (grainy)
My versions of bright and airy, true to color, and moody. (these are just examples) Please note these will differ for EVERY artist. (you know the photographer)
Bright and Airy
True to Color
Moody
There are many other ways to choose a photographer , pricing, personality, etc all of these things should be taken into consideration before hiring. However, the above items are all things you can learn on your own to save your time as well as the photographers time.
So the search has begun, you're in a facebook group, typing away, either by a physical search or posting ISO (in search of) you make the decision to explore what Facebook is about to dish out to you, rather the people on facebook.
You'll receive unwanted or wanted messages, four hundred comments, and a completely overwhelming and over stimulating experience. They will ask you what your price range is and most certainly you haven't put it on the post. They will ask you when and where , are you wanting a full session or a mini. Soon the simple search has become so much, you shut your laptop , grab another cup of coffee, and schedule the dentist appt. instead. At least you probably already know who to use for that.
I recommend making a post with a price range in mind. This can also be challenging because you may not even know whats appropriate. So be honest,
"ISO- a family photographer for five, lifestyle.
price range $400, located in Cypress Texas (name your area)
please dm me (or please leave in comments)
In addition, add details if you have any about what you're wanting.
****Feel free to add more details to the post as well if you know you want to shoot at the beach in the evening say it, if you know what dates you're available say it, if you're open to dates, say it. The more information you provide the hope is the best fit photographers for you will comment saving you potentially hours.
I know in theory it should be as simple as posting or searching "family photographer (in your area) but its not..
Sure, you can make a post as a question and maybe you'll only get an answer or two, but it's unlikely and certainly wont happen to everyone. Even if it did what happens when you don't like the two that were tagged.
Once the search has sent you to a few photographers that you are liking, the next step is to contact them. Assuming they haven't already contacted you. Reach out and state the same thing you posted and be friendly. Ask for pricing, ask if they have specials, ask about locations. Some photographers have a pdf with instructions they may just email you that, some will want to talk, or text. some strictly emails. This is where those thoughts about personality and structure that is comfortable to you comes in.
Things to expect when you are booking.
1. discussion of pricing
2. scheduling
3. take retainer to book date
4. location
5. Style of clothes (not all photographer will help with styling)
The one thing I cant stress enough is communication. Talk with your photographer about what you are wanting, because if you don't and say "just whatever is fine" you may just get.. whatever.
Pinterest is always a great spot to seek inspiration for outfits, and often you can search amazon for similar outfits and get them discounted. Or just order something super special for a styled family session!
Just remember you get what you pay for. Show up 10/15 min early the day of your shoot. Let everyone get our and stretch their legs. Remind everyone to look at the camera and smile.
Booking family sessions for 2021/2022
832.913.9629