Finding a Right Photographer

As we get closer to the fall (Yeah, that's right. Not sure what happened to the summer but the FALL is coming...), you might be looking to have your family portrait taken for your holiday cards.

Finding the right photographer for you and your family can be a daunting task. Family photography has become an extremely competitive market. So many websites, so many Instagram feeds... Ahhhh! where do I even start?! you asked?

The good news is that with little time and effort, you can do your own research and find a photographer that's right for you! I will break it down to a few tips to look the right photographer for you. I don't want you to overwhelm with too much reading at once, so here's a tip #1!

Tip #1 - Search Connection.

A great way to start your photographer-seeking journey is by asking friends and family if they recommend anyone in the area. Chances are good that they've worked with a good photographer they liked. They can share their experience with that photographer and you can decide if that sounds like a good fit for you or you want something different for your family. Using social media is also a great way to search for a local photographer. Using #tags like "losangelesfamilyphotographer", or "losangeleskidphotographer", you can selectively search for your local photographer in your area.

Look for what kind of style of photography you're looking for by using Instagram or Pinterest. Save screenshots of your "liked" images to make an imageboard is another great way to know exactly what you are going for. Do you like light and airy or moody photos?

Most professional photographers have a strong online web presence with portfolios of their work for you to browse. Once you’ve found a few photographers you’re interested in working with, don’t be shy about setting up interviews! Schedule a phone call or zoom meeting to get a feel for the photographer and his/her process for creating images. It will quickly become clear whether it’s a good fit for both of you!

Remember! It's all about human connections when you take family photos. Even if you like his/her artistic view, it doesn't mean that photographer is the right person for you. If you don't feel comfortable with that person, you probably won't have a good experience at the session. Would you want to see photos from that kind of session on your wall everyday?

If you have kids, make sure that the photographer understands kids are going to be ... just kids! Enhancing those crazy moments instead of stress out about it. Less stress = more fun = great photos.

The photos: Look at these fun moments. Aren't they beautiful? Seems like messy, crazy moments are the moments you will look back and smile about.