How to Choose a Family Photographer

Nov 3
09:08

2010

Kevan Oswald

Kevan Oswald

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Selecting a family photographer doesn’t need to be a daunting task.  However,How to Choose a Family Photographer Articles it is important to select a photographer that has plenty of experience taking family pictures.  The following are a few simple things to look for when selecting a family photographer.

First, look for a good and extensive portfolio of family pictures on their website.  There should be several good pictures showcasing a variety of places.  More and more families are opting to have their pictures taken outdoors rather than in a studio.  Most of the pictures on photographer’s websites will show outdoor family pictures.  However, it is important to notice if the pictures are from a variety of places and if there are studio pictures as well.  A good variety will help you better judge the photographer’s skill.

In addition to variety, the number of family pictures in the portfolio is important.  Occasionally a photographer just starting out will grab friends and family members and shoot few pictures of them, select a handful of good ones and showcase them in their portfolio.  Most anybody can take a hundred pictures and have two or three that turn out great.  A good family photographer will take a hundred pictures and have forty of fifty that turn out great.  If a family photographer only has half a dozen pictures up on their website, even if they are good pictures, it should be a sign to look elsewhere.

Look for a variety of poses in the pictures.  Every family is different.  Look not only at the number of people in the pictures, but the ages and sizes of the people.  Most any photographer will tell you that taking pictures of families is one of the most challenging things they do.  Getting everyone to pose just right, look at the camera and smile at the same time isn’t easy, especially if there are small children and babies involved, which is more often than not the case.  The pictures in a family photographer’s portfolio should show families of different sizes and ages in order for you to best judge the ability of the photographer.

A good family photographer will also have several years of experience.  Look for a photographer who has been taking pictures for at least five years.  Now that buying a quality digital camera is in the reach of most people, more and more people are getting into the photography business.  There is even a term experienced photographers give newcomers with little experience, MWACK’S (Mom’s With A Camera).  While most start out with enthusiasm, they usually burn out after a year or two and never reach a level of professionalism that produces high quality photos.  They may even offer to take you family’s picture for free or for a very low price so they can “build their portfolio”.  This may be a good strategy for them, but not for you.  You will still pay for your pictures, not in terms of dollars, but in terms of time and effort wasted getting a poor quality family photo.         

To see a good example of a family photographer, visit Mary Kim Photography a family photographer in Salt Lake City, Utah.