Mar 3, 20212 min read

Choosing a Family Photographer

The past year has been a year of change and growth as we've spent more time with our families in our homes.

When you're looking for a family portrait photographer to update your family pictures (and what better time than now?), you'll want to find someone to capture YOUR family's love and playfulness and silliness; not some photographer's idea of what your family should look like.

Here is what you should look for when choosing a family photographer:

A CUSTOM EXPERIENCE.

Family pictures are invaluable, a priceless treasure that will be in your family for many generations. So when selecting a family photographer, look for someone who will take the time to get to know you. I pride myself on offering a custom experience to each of my clients. I ask lots of questions, and am even willing to meet with you in person (yay, coffee shops are open again!) to answer any of your questions and get to know you so that together we can create a custom and unique portrait experience that is centered around YOUR family. Plus, every client receives a multi-page "Family Portrait Planning Guide" that answers so many questions about preparing for your family pictures.

POSING STYLE.

What is YOUR family's style? Do you want a formal, traditional pose? Or do you want playful, non-posed shots of your family? My style is BOTH! I offer a combination of the traditional, posed images, combined with lots of laughter and hugs and playfulness to capture the love your family shares.

LOCATION.

Where do you want your family pictures taken? In studio? Rural setting? Urban setting? Your family's backyard or vacation location? I've spent years scouting out beautiful locations around the Pekin area, so whether your family is looking for open fields and barns and barbed wire fencing, or a more urban vibe, I've got some great locations to offer! But if your family has a vacation spot where you plan to gather, or you want some pictures in front of your family home, I am always willing to consider your location as long as the lighting is good! I'll even travel if you need me to...just ask!

VIEWING AND SELECTING YOUR IMAGES.

Are your comfortable with technology? Do you want to view your images in an online gallery and select your favorites that way? Or would you prefer a more hands-on approach, where you can view actual printed proofs that you can touch and hold and move around to make your selection? Some photographers only offer one option or the other. I offer both. Professional photography is an investment, so I want my customers to feel completely comfortable when choosing their images. Using either an online gallery or meeting in person, I offer you the choice of purchasing high resolution digital images with a print release that will allow you to print on your own and/or share on social media, OR you may order prints and canvases through me, where I have access to professional photo labs that create heirloom quality products.