Choosing a Family Photographer: My Experience and Why It Matters
As a mother and professional photographer, I’ve been on both sides of the camera. Recently, I decided to hire a photographer for my own family, thinking it would be a breeze. But the experience taught me valuable lessons—both as a client and a professional.
Lessons From My Personal Experience
When scrolling through Instagram, I was captivated by the dreamy photos of a well-known photographer. But the final images I received were far from what was advertised. The editing style seemed inconsistent, and the photos lacked the magic that had drawn me to book them in the first place. This disparity between expectation and reality was my first disappointment.
Next, working with my toddler (my 2-year-old daughter) proved more challenging than I’d anticipated. The photographer assumed my child would smile on cue, repeating “Say cheese” endlessly, which only frustrated her. Shooting for longer didn’t help; it felt like we were hoping for a miracle shot that never came. The lack of genuine interaction made the entire session feel mechanical.
When the gallery arrived, it included hundreds of unfiltered images—some blurry, others with eyes closed—all with generic file names like “IMG_1234.” Sorting through thousands of photos to find a few keepers was overwhelming. And without guidance on what to wear for the session, our outfits clashed instead of complementing the theme.
This experience solidified my belief that a family photographer’s job is much more than taking pictures; it’s about creating an effortless and memorable experience for the family.
One of my favourite photo this year was the one I took at The Meadows where my husband fell over while trying to catch our daughter.
What Makes My Approach Different
Hiring a photographer should never be stressful or leave you disappointed. Here’s how I ensure a seamless experience:
Thoughtful Curation and Delivery
You won’t have to sift through hundreds of images. I meticulously curate each photo, delivering only the best—culled, color-corrected, and ready to treasure. No one should spend hours sorting through numbered files.
Wardrobe Assistance
Choosing outfits shouldn’t add to your stress. Share your wardrobe with me, and I’ll help select pieces that work perfectly for your session. Coordinating colors and styles can make all the difference.
Genuine Connection
I take time to know you and your family. What’s your child’s favorite toy, song, or TV show? How do you spend your weekends together? What are your favorite outing spots? This connection helps me capture authentic moments that reflect your family’s unique bond. Knowing your favorite places also helps me select the perfect location for your shoot. And if the session marks a milestone or birthday, I’ll incorporate that into the theme to make the experience even more special.
Loyalty Perks
For returning clients, I offer special deals. Watching your family grow and capturing those milestones year after year is a privilege I cherish.
Printing Matters
Photos aren’t meant to live solely on screens. I’m passionate about creating wall pieces that you can proudly display in your home, turning fleeting moments into timeless art.
Stress-Free Sessions
Planning a photo session can feel overwhelming, especially for busy moms. Let me take the mental load off your shoulders. From wardrobe planning to keeping your toddler engaged, I handle the details so you can relax and enjoy the experience.
The Heart of Family Photography
A great family photography session is about more than the final images; it’s about the memories you create during the shoot. My goal is to ensure the experience is as joyful and meaningful as the photos themselves. Whether it’s your first session or the fifth, I strive to deliver images and moments you’ll cherish forever.
Ready to capture your family’s unique story? Let’s connect for a consultation! I’d love to learn more about your family, your milestones, and how we can create memories that will last a lifetime. Contact me today to schedule your session!
