How to find the perfect photographer for YOUR family

Shopping for a family photographer can be a daunting task. Case and point – go to your local mom’s Facebook group and type the word “photographer” into the search bar. Chances are, you’ll find an overwhelming number of photographers serve the area where you live.

How do you even begin to navigate finding the right photographer for your family?

The secret to finding the best match for your family boils down to your approach. Your top priority should be to find a photographer whose style resonates with you.

I would describe my outdoor work as 80% unposed and 20% posed. I am a “storytelling” photographer and love to capture authentic moments, but I wouldn’t describe my work as purely “emotive.” I am drawn to rich colors and subtlety dramatic skies. You can see more of my work here.

Other considerations (which are too often prioritized) such as word of mouth and budget are important but should come into play AFTER you as the customer learn what style of photography you want.

I think there is often a misnomer out there that every photographer can be all things to all customers. Photographers have different strengths, styles, and specialties. Photographers commonly receive inquiries from would-be-customers who ask them to produce a style of image that looks nothing like that photographer’s portfolio. In some cases, a photographer might be able to pivot and change styles, but the customer in this scenario is also risking disappointment.

My indoor work — which I am just about to launch! — is what I would call “timeless neutral.” I only shoot wardrobe that is white or light neutral. My studio setup will never include anything more than some basic seating, a plant or two, or a nice boho textured rug.

The would-be-customer is better off taking time to look over each photographer’s portfolio (found on their website and/or social media) and asking the question, “Can I see myself or my family in these images?”

Pay attention to the colors, the posing (or unposing), the mood of the photos. Make a list of artists whose work resonates with you. You can then begin to weigh each photographer’s pricing and offerings or reach out to previous customers about their experience.

The above image from Anne Marie’s Photography beautifully captures the artistry behind her work. Her style is bold, cinematic and unposed with editorial influences.

You see, there is a photographer out there for every budget (we all started out just happy to have people in front of our lens). And while some photographers enjoy a larger customer base than others, almost every photographer can point to previous clients who were over the moon about their experience. So again, these considerations should be secondary.

Princess Grace Photography epitomizes a light and dreamy style of photography. Her visual style perfectly captures the magic of love and family life.

It is sometimes helpful for would-be customers to have the language to describe the style of photography that speaks to them. That way, if you do end up crown sourcing, you are more likely to get recommendations that are in line with your style. For example, instead of saying, “Can anyone recommend a family photographer?” you could say, “I am looking for a family studio photographer whose style is light and airy, and traditionally posed.” Or, “I am looking for a photographer to do a bold, emotive maternity session.”

Iya Estrallado Photography has mastered a story-telling style of photography. Her use of props, outfits and location work together to produce images that are both whimsical and timeless.

To help you determine your style, I’ve compiled the work of various artists from around the world and featured them in this post. Together with each photographer, we’ve come up with words to describe their work. This is meant to aid you as the reader as you identify the styles of photography that fit you and your family’s personality and aesthetic. I encourage you to click on links for each artist whose work resonates with you to see more images that fit their style. I would love to hear your comments about the style of photography that resonates with you personally!!!

Fiona Lane Photography sets herself apart from other photographers by wholly embracing mood, warmth and color in her images.

Southern Shoots Photography produces images that are bold, creative and fun! He specializes in using technical lighting both in and out of the studio.

Julia Rintz Photography showcases her artistic talent by producing work that is bright, bold and colorful!