Anyone can be a “professional” children’s or family photographer these days.
The barrier to entry is so slim that anyone with enough money to buy a decent camera can call themselves professionals. So read on for three tips to selecting your family photographer so you don’t end up with a set of photographs that you could have made yourself. 1. Review the photographer’s family portrait portfolio Photographing children and families is different from photographing weddings or corporate work. Check that the photographer is experienced with family photography by reviewing their family photography portfolio. Remember, photography is subjective. How do you know you will like the photographer’s style if you don’t look at their photographs? Then go further by taking a critical look at lighting. Light makes or breaks a photograph, and often, the most strikingly beautiful images are beautiful because of how the photographer used light. 2. Think about the setting you’d like, and look for a photographer who works in that type of setting. |
In general, family portraits can be captured in any of four settings: a) studio (on backdrops); b) studio environmental (in studio, but using real furniture, decor on the walls or architectural elements); c) in your home; d) outdoors.
Some photographers work only on location; others work only in studio with backdrops. Think about the setting you prefer, as well as your timing constraints. Do you have extended family visiting for a limited time who will be part of your portrait session? If so, even if you prefer outdoor photography, you may still need a photographer who also has a studio so that you have a rain plan. 3. When ready, sign a contract Contracts provide mutually beneficial protection to both you and your photographer. Your photographer should send you a contract once you’ve both decided to move forward. The contract should define studio policies, payment and deliverable schedules, and contingency plans. Read the contract before signing; don’t make any payments until the contract is in place. By Irene Abdou • Source: www.angieslist.com |