We all have cameras in our pockets, so why should you hire a professional? This is a question I hear often! While it is fantastic that we are now capable of documenting our families with such ease, there are still plenty of reasons to hire a professional.
The most important reason you should hire a professional photographer is to get yourself into the photos! One of the things that I hear over and over again from clients is the complaint that they are generally the one documenting their family and are seldom in the photos themselves. I love being able to scroll through photos on my phone, but it can't replace those taken by others where I can be a part of those memories. Think of how you feel when looking through old family albums or picking through your parents old photos. For me, these are some of my most valued possessions. It is not only the images, it is all of the joyful memories they provoke. When I look at a photograph of my family, I often imagine my children showing it to their children, or their grandchildren someday. When I'm creating images of your family, I know that I'm also freezing a moment in time and providing a piece of your history and an heirloom that may be passed down.
When you hire a professional, you will receive more than just quick snapshots. Just as when you hire a hairdresser or other professional, you are investing in someone who is educated and has knowledge of his or her craft. A professional photographer will understand the importance of light and location. They will be using professional equipment, as well as post-processing software to bring out the best in your images. Knowing that these aspects of your experience will be handled with care allow you to relax into the experience. You won't have to try to find the best spot or fret over posing your family. You won't have to worry about what faces your children might be making - leave that to the photographer! I promise your smile will be more genuine when you can relax. Often my clients will tell me that they feel awkward in front of the camera and I reassure them that I will coach them through the session. While I can't promise that I can get rid of all awkward feelings, I can promise that you won't look awkward in your photos!
Hiring a professional isn't only about the actual shoot. Like many professionals, I will walk you through the entire experience. Beginning with letting you know what to expect, getting to know you and your family, addressing any needs or concerns, and helping style your session. After your session, a professional will deliver your gallery and be available to help guide you through ordering prints and wall art. This is my business, I'm already invested in making you look great!
I will often hear people say that they're waiting for some milestone event for photos, and my advice is always don't wait! There is magic in every day and every moment spent with family is special. Any parent knows that babies don't keep and that all of the cliche's about children's whiplash-inducing growth are true, so again I say don't wait. This is also a perfect time for me to remind you how much I love extended family sessions! I can't remember the last extended family session I had where someone didn't point out how grateful they were to have a family photo where no one was in a wedding dress (I see you nodding because it's SO true!). All this time in quarantine has just reinforced the importance of gathering and recording those memories with loved ones.
Still on the fence or have questions? Please don't hesitate to reach out!
