5 Tips for Choosing Your Next Photographer

Choosing a photographer likely feels like an overwhelming task. There are sooo many options these days! I’m going to give you “insider advice” to help you navigate the process of choosing a photographer. You’ve probably already guessed this, but the big not-so-secret is this: not all photography services are equal! Check out this list to find 5 tips for choosing your family photographer, and scroll all the way to the bottom to see if Iris & Lace is the right fit for you!

1. Choose a photographer who you ~vibe~ with, and who is active and engaged with you. 

Sometimes, being in front of the camera can feel a tad bit unnatural. (I know lots of dads out there are nodding in agreement!) I’ve spent time on both ends of the camera, and I completely understand and relate. That is why it is so important to be with a photographer who you feel comfortable with. They will help you relax, loosen up, maybe even laugh a little. And that will definitely show in your photos! 

And of course, definitely choose a photographer who is active on social media and engaged with your inquiries. You should get a good sense of their personality from their social media. Hopefully they will respond promptly with kindness and enthusiasm to your inquiry and all your pre-shoot consultations. That way, you know you’ll be in great hands on the day of your photoshoot!

2. Make sure you like their style!  

All photographers have a unique style. Some photographers produce light and airy, soft images. Some photographers have super-saturated, high definition images with an external flash. Some photographers shoot exclusively in a studio. Some photographers have dark, deep and evocative portraits. (If you’re wondering, I’d describe my style as rich & bold, with a boho flare!)  Make sure you thoroughly review your photographers portfolio, and you like his/her style before you book them. You don’t want any surprises when you receive your finished gallery! 

3. Prioritize the investment, not the price. 

Yes, I’m aware that someone in your local Moms Group knows someone who only charges $10 for a family session and it includes 5 hours of coverage, 600 photos, a free backrub, and a pony. But my question to you is this: are the photos really worth it? Yes, you can pay extremely low prices when hiring especially a new photographer. But are you going to get photos that you LOVE?

When choosing a photographer, don’t just price shop. Which photographer has a gallery that takes your breath away? Which photographer offers a better quality and standard of retouching? Which photographer has a proven track record (with verifiable reviews) of reliability? The key takeaway is this: compare photographers on more than price. A lower price doesn’t mean you’re getting a better deal.

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4. Quality is more important than quantity.

When I was an amateur photographer, I would give out 2-3 times the amount of photos I currently present to my clients. When I look back through these old galleries, I cringe. Those galleries are HUGE, but they are filled with duplicates, blurry photos, awkward half-smiles, and weird compositions. I thought I was doing my clients a favor by giving them dozens of photos, but the opposite was true! No one wants to look at dozens of awkward, duplicated, or blurry photos of themselves! I would rather give my clients 50 amazing photos, than 150 mediocre ones. Remember the old adage of quality over quantity! More photos does not mean better photos. 

5. A good photographer plays by the rules.

This may surprise you, but I believe that a good photographer has guidelines in place and written expectations. It actually protects YOU, the client, when these structures are available. An experienced photographer has clearly communicated policies and procedures, and will abide by these guidelines in serving you. Clear policies mean all clients are receiving the same high-quality experience from the photographer, and there will be no unexpected surprises. A good photographer has a sound, proven business model and well-practiced workflows, making the process smooth and predictable for you! 

When choosing a photographer, it’s important to find one who can meet all your needs and vision, so you’ll be happy with your experience! I want to help you in your search by defining what I am not. I am not fast or casual. I don’t do snapshots, or 10 minute mini-sessions, or over-the-top themes and props that are popular today and outdated tomorrow. I believe you deserve more.

My style is rich, emotive, and authentic: you, and your loved ones, snuggling and laughing and being real humans together. There is something effortlessly timeless and genuine about these moments.

Ready to book Iris & Lace for your next session?! Click here!!