Choosing a photographer is your first and most important step.
Trust is a major part of the client-photographer relationship.
The first step to finding the best photographer for you is to ask your friends and family.
Check out a bunch of different websites, not just the top spots in the google search.
Many cities also have blogs or online guides that can help you narrow down your search.
Style is the most important aspect of a photographer you want to be looking for when visiting websites.
A photographer isnt going to change their style to suit the needs of one client.
You should choose someone whos images resonate with you from the start.
Once youve narrowed your choices get in touch with the photographer youre most interested in to have a chat.
All photographers should be willing to do a consultation if youd like it.
This will give you a good sense of their personality.
Where should you have your photos taken?
Back in the early days of photography, a studio was often your only choice.
But with todays technology, the options are pretty well unlimited.
Some photographers still shoot in studios while others offer on-location shoots.
Both options have their pros and cons.
Studio shoots can be great for a few reasons.
Theyre private, only your family and the photographer and perhaps an assistant will be present.
This means every shot will come out looking great because theres no adjusting for changing lighting conditions.
However, studio shoots do have their limitations.
I find studio shoots produce less natural photos.
Often Ill ask clients to suggest some of their favourite places they like to go as a family.
Perhaps a local park, hiking trail or historical interest site.
However, on-location shoots do have their cons.
Unless you might find a well lit indoor location they are often weather dependent.
If youre shooting on-location there are bound to be other people around.
The third sort of in-between option is to have the shoot in your own home.
Now were getting down to the details!
Youve found your photographer, youve found a location and youve booked your date!
How do you get everyone looking great?
The biggest advice I can give here is to be comfortable.
Contrary to popular belief now is not the time to wear a brand new item of clothing.
If you feel uncomfortable you will look uncomfortable.
Same rule goes for the kids.
Parks and trails may be a bit muddy even if its not raining at the time.
Another thing to think about is colour.
I personally love to see families in vibrant colours but if you prefer neutrals thats totally up to you.
Those shades can be hard to balance with other colours and can make editing difficult for the photographer later.
Thats not the say avoid white and black completely.
A white shirt worn with a coloured sweater or blazer should be just fine.
Breaking up the area with some colour will help balance everything out.
In addition to colors youll also want to consider patterns.
Larger patterns, such as a wide plaid or stripe, should be fine.
Your photographer may even have some suggestions for what to wear on your shoot.
When in doubt feel free to ask for tips!
Youve worked out all the details and planning and now the day has arrived!
But how can you ensure you get that perfect, smiling into camera photo to send along to grandma?
Some kids, especially the younger ones, are not prone to sitting still for a photograph.
I touched on some strategies for photographing kids in a previous blog here: (link).
Letting kids be kids is my best advice.
Dont try too hard to rein them in or else you may risk a tantrum.
So youve read through this whole post but now youre thinking this will not fit into my budget.
I understand that, photographers are not inexpensive.
Many popular photographers in urban areas can charge up to $800+ for a family session.
But there are other options!
Try booking in the off season.
Some photographers have deals during times when theyre less busy.
Often for family photos that is after the holidays and before the nicer weather hits in the spring.
Try a student or recent graduate photographer.
Many new photographers have lower rates as they build up their business and gather more experience in the field.
Check in with your local college or university for students who are offering their services.
However, avoid asking for lower rates or free work.
If hiring someone is really not within your budget at the time consider planning a do-it-yourself shoot.
Youll want to double-check you have a tripod that fits your camera or phone.
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ContributorEmily Jewer is a Halifax based photographer.
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