Finding a photographer that will work for you is very important. There are so many amazing photographers out there who do great work, but how do you know who to choose? There are a few questions that you need to be sure to ask every family photographer before you book in order to ensure that you are selecting the right person for you. Pretty pictures are the result, but having a great experience and trusting that you picked the most perfect photographer for your family is extra important too.

1. What products will we receive with each session?

This varies a lot from photographer to photographer. Products can include digital files (all or a limited amount), access to prints at an extra cost or included in the package, or an edited video from the session. When asking this question be sure that you know what you and your family are wanting and what you would expect to receive.

At LVP Studios we offer all of the edited digital files included in the package pricing for photos, as well as access to printing option through different labs. Our prints include multiple sizes (even large scale canvases, frames, and specialty options). We also offer album design through Kiss Albums! In regards to packages that include videos—at LVP Studios we share ALL of the raw footage with you, as well as, a fun 2-3 minute highlight film that showcases the session with your family. This is delivered via a USB flash drive in an adorable memorabilia case that you can set on your TV Stand and have for a lifetime.

2. What location options do we have and how do you charge for travel?

Are you interested in shooting in a studio? How about outdoor sessions? Deciding what you and your family want is so important in getting pictures that are matching your ideal style, mood, and preferred aesthetic. Some photographers only have a select few places in which they will shoot while others allow you to choose anywhere you heart desires (even in your own home).

Travel costs is another discussion that you should absolutely have with any photographer that you are reaching out to. Once you are made aware of your location options, next you will want to ask about what they charge for their travel. For example, if you choose to have your photos taken at your own home and the photographer needs to drive 30 minutes to get there—what will they charge for this?

At LVP Studios we are open to any location! We have a few select spots that we love to shoot at, but in the end, you and your family can choose whatever is best for you. That being said, we do charge for any travel outside of a 30 mile radius of our home office. Make sure you ask for these details when booking with us.

3. What should we wear?

Photographers are experts at picking out the perfect colors and coordinating outfits for families. If there is a certain style that a photographer likes to shoot in, they normally have a certain style of clothing that they prefer as well. Be sure to ask your photographer what they recommend you wear so that you can look the best and have the best pictures ever!

At LVP Studios we always say, “No matter the session, you should feel comfortable and confident.” When styling a family or group, we recommend you try to coordinate but not match. Choose two main colors to centralize around, but don’t all wear the same thing. Stay away from green clothing for any outdoor sessions. Also, think about dressing in layers so that we can play with those textures and get different shots with layers on and off. Dressing simple is key, and mixing some minimal prints with solids ensures that your outfits have interest but look normal and natural. We prefer when the photos and videos are all about you and not about what you’re wearing.

No matter who you select as your family photographer, make sure that they are right for you! Asking these questions can help you get the details that you need in order to further decide if you’re ready to book.

Having pretty pictures is only the start! There are so many amazing photographers out there with stunning pictures that fit your desired style, but there’s so much more to know about your photographer than just those great photos.