subject: What To Look For When Choosing A Family Portrait Photographer [print this page] Choosing a portrait photographer to capture images that evoke emotion can often be an overwhelming task. The decision of which photographer should take your lifelong memories need not be so daunting if you consider the aspects of cost, style, packages and expertise.
Cost
At the forefront of your decision must be affordability. Packages can range from a few hundred to thousands of dollars. A limit must be set on what you can afford. However, it is wise to remember that the cheapest option available may not necessarily be the best option to suit you. Photographers may offer specials at certain times of the year, such as Mother's Day and Christmas.
Style
Each photographer has his or her own unique style. Some prefer formal portraiture set in a studio while others prefer more creative, natural and candid shots choosing an outdoor or less formal location. Some will blend the two options, taking some in a studio and then continuing the shoot at a venue such as a beach or park. Asking to view a portfolio of their work will enable you to obtain a feel as to which part of the spectrum they work in and the one you prefer.
Packages
With so many photographers on the market, there are also many packages. These vary according to experience of the photographer, time allocated to the shoot, digital versus film, number of prints or images taken and received and enhancement, manipulation and presentation of images. The more basic packages will involve taking an agreed amount of images and handing the images over on CD, with little or no enhancement, for the client to print at a later date.
The more expensive packages will take a number of images. These may or may not be enhanced or manipulated and then presented to the customer in many formats such as photographs, canvases, albums or soft copy. Other options to consider also include colour finish, photographic paper used, copyright ownership, when and if copyright will be handed over to the client, use of images for advertising purposes and hidden costs such as overtime and extra purchases outside the package.
A discussion with the professional will enable the customer to make an informed decision as to what options best suit their needs. Some photographers will be flexible with their packages and tailor them to suit you, while others insist you use theirs.
Expertise
A good photographer not only knows their equipment and how to use it, they also know how to get the best image available with the conditions on the day. They must make the client feel comfortable, relaxed and read the body language of all those involved, especially babies and young children. Again meeting or talking to the photographer establishes this. Be sure to ask if the person you meet is the person who takes the photographs as some companies have different individuals to do each task.
Hence a good portrait photographer is one that is cost effective, suited to your style, professional, flexible and one that you feel comfortable around.
