How to choose the right northants family photographer
So you have decided to get some gorgeous photos of your family done. Great, but where do you start? Arranging a family photoshoot isn’t something that many families do often so you can be unsure of what to look for in a photographer. The end product – the photos – are something you will want to keep forever, perhaps hang on the wall of your home or show to family and friends, so you want to be 100% happy with the result!
Northamptonshire is home to many amazing family photographers so the choice can seem overwhelming. There are, however, several different things to consider to ensure you’re picking the right photographer for your family. Here I have listed some factors to think about when choosing the right Northants family photographer for your family.
Location
One of the first things you need to consider is where you want your photo shoot to take place. Are you looking for a studio shoot which would often include props (either provided by the studio or yourself), an outdoor shoot in areas like parks or woodlands or even a shoot in your own home? Luckily in Northants, we have many amazing outdoor locations to choose from, however, these often rely on good weather days so consider the time of year and the likelihood of rain. For babies, smaller children or those who can be a bit shy, being in their own home can be less daunting for them. It also means they have all their toys and comforts around them. If you have a specific location in mind then check early on that the photographer is happy to travel to this area as not all will or may have additional charges (see below).
Read Their Reviews
Reviews can tell you quite a bit about the experience you will get from that photographer. Skim past the ones that are telling you they loved their images – you can see the images for yourself. Instead, look for reviews that detail the process and experience. Do they mention things that might be important to you such as patience with little ones, easy to chat to etc?
Style of photography
Along with location, you need to think about the style of photography you are after. What do you want the end pictures to look like? Are you looking for posed photos? Natural photos? Do you want to tell a specific story such as a pregnancy or the newborn days? Along with this, you also need to consider the level of editing a photographer does. Do you want any blemishes, snotty noses, or bruises removed or are you happy with the natural look of each family member? Once you have a few photographers in mind, then take a look through their portfolio to see what their style and level of editing is.
Are they easy to talk to?
Something that is often not thought of is how well you get on with the photographer. Having photos taken of yourself and your family can feel awkward and out of your comfort zone. Your photoshoot is likely to last at least an hour so it’s a fair while to spend with someone you don’t know. If you spend the whole shoot in silence, struggling to make small talk and feeling awkward then that is going to show in the photos. You also don’t want someone your kids are uncomfortable with as then they are just not going to play ball. If possible, have a chat on the phone or meet up with the photographer in person before booking to ensure you are going to feel relaxed and comfortable around each other.
Have they got Insurance and do they provide a contract?
With people having easy access to digital cameras these days many photographers are offering shoots that are simply their side hustle or hobby. This can be fine, however, it means they potentially don’t have adequate insurance in place or a proper contract. A contract is there for the protection of both you and the photographer so it is really worthwhile having it in place. This can cover things like postponement for sickness (as can often happen when children are involved!), for bad weather at an outdoor shoot or for things like where the photos can be used ie. on social media.
What are the costs?
Another big factor that can affect your decision is how much it is going to cost. Photography can range vastly in price so be clear on your budget. Northants family photographers can not only have different prices but also set up their pricing/packages differently. What I mean by this is that some may have a cost for the actual shoot itself, another cost for the digital images, and then another cost for any physical products. Others may have one price that includes all of this. Some can also have additional costs for added extras (see point below). Make sure you know exactly what you are getting for the price quoted. This is another reason to ensure a contract is in place.
Check for additional costs
Along with the point above. make sure you know of any additional costs. Some photographers add extra for things such as additional hours, additional people, miles they have had to travel or additional photos than what is included in your chosen package.
What products are available?
What products are you looking for? Digital prints? Fine art prints? Canvases? Albums? Different photographers offer different end products so have a think beforehand what you are going to want and make sure the photographer offers them.
What Do They Offer Before the shoot?
As mentioned above, a photo shoot can be really out of people’s comfort zone so find out what the photographer can offer before the shoot. Some will provide some written articles on what to do to prepare, some tips and tricks to get the most out of your shoot, an outline of what to expect at the shoot, tips for preparing kids for the shoot or as mentioned before, a call or meet up to get to know each other a bit before the shoot itself. Some may offer none of this! If there is anything you particularly want or need then check with the photographer to see if this is something they can offer.
What is the wait time for the photos?
The wait time between the shoot and the delivery of the edited photos can vary for each Northants family photographer. If you only want digital photos then this might only take a couple of weeks, However, if you want physical products like prints and albums then this may take longer. This is especially important to consider if you want to gift them for a birthday or Christmas.
I hope these all help you choose the right Northants family photographer for you. If you would like to learn all about my style of photography, what to expect at a shoot and my packages and prices then you can download my brochure here.
Free Stuff!
What’s Happening In Northants for Families
Get my weekly email letting you know what’s happening around Northants in the week ahead.
Family Photography E-Brochure
Download my free E- brochure to discover how a shoot can work for your family
Free PDF: 7 Tips To Take Better Photos Of Your Kids
Some simple but effective tricks and tips to help you take better photos of your kids with your smartphone.