February 16, 2021

The perfect fit?

What's the number one thing you look for when you're searching for a photographer? Is it a few things like price, style, location, mood, a feeling, personality, etc.? If you've ever tried googling a photographer, you've probably realized that it can be a little overwhelming. We’re everywhere ;) You have generous amounts of options, so today, I' thought I'd help you in your search with 5 tips on finding the perfect fit.

1. Be sure to know what your photographer shoots.

Not all photographers shoot everything. I offer a variety of photography services. Each I love and appreciate for different reasons, but I don’t have a studio. I shoot on-location, using natural light and I serve families and other creatives by shining a light on their authenticity, whether it be parenting, bonding as a family, the love and connection of a couple or a hustling entrepreneur—I bring awareness to what’s real.

2. View their portfolio and see if their style resonates with you.

Most professional photographers will have a website, but if not, you can view portfolios via social media--Instagram being the preferred social platform for imagery. Do a #hashtag search for the type of photography your looking for and your location (ex: #lifestylefamilyphotographer #charlottefamilyphotography). I am a lifestyle and documentary photographer. I like to call my sessions child-led. Children are naturally authentic and open to expressing what they are feeling, and I love it. So while there is some posing and guidance with my lifestyle sessions, I prefer to let the child lead the session. To me this is where the magic happens. You will see lots of playtime, cuddling, hugging, nurturing, laughing and sometimes tears. #hastag search for your I am a lifestyle and documentary photographer. I like to call my sessions child-led. Children are naturally authentic and open to expressing what they are feeling, and I love it. So while there is some posing and guidance with my lifestyle sessions, I prefer to let the child lead the session. To me this is where the magic happens. You will see lots of playtime, cuddling, hugging, nurturing, laughing and sometimes tears.

If it's documentary photography you're after, then you my friend, are seeking truth. You appreciate the raw, the real, the unapologetic. You may not always feel valued or seen, but you know you love hard, parent hard and work hard. You are a nurturer by nature and you want to document all-the-things and be in it. You want to shine a light on your life, your love and your family, I will deliver that artistic perspective.

My editing style is simple with a preference for deeper, richer tones, muted earthy tones, but honestly, it all depends on the environment. If it’s light and bright, my work will reflect that too.

3. Know your investment.

Not all photography is the same, nor are they priced the same. Know your budget but also understand the value of what you get when you’re selecting a photographer and their services. There is an artist and a family behind the camera, each offering a unique experience. My Lifestyle photography sessions (family + newborn), Elopement Collection and Day in The Life photography experiences all come with a welcome gift, all the best edited hi-resolution images, (1) custom hardcover photo album and a thank you gift. The experience goes beyond the coverage time.

4. Choose someone you think you’ll be comfortable with.

While the first time is always experimental, you may know someone that has had a session with your chosen photographer. Comfort is key to a relaxed experience and this will reflect in your photos.

5. Book early.

Spring and Fall are busy for every professional photographer. Inquire early and book as soon as possible to guarantee your specific date. Most can accommodate a change if necessary—especially outdoor on-location photographers because weather is something you have to work around occasionally.

Bonus Tip:

Above all else, choose someone passionate. Someone who sees you—maybe even the side you don’t appreciate enough yourself. It’s my mission to capture and deliver images that you will look back on years from now—images that take you back to that moment, those feelings, that phase and stage in life that you invested in. Those are the images that matter most. It’s an investment in the present and the future—an investment in you. What is more precious than that?

I hope these little tips help you with your search. If you'd love to know more about hiring me as your photographer follow the tips above. If you think I’m the right fit, then shoot me a message! This year, I have new experiences and I’ve added more value to each. My 2021 & 2022 calendars are open for booking and I would love to send you some more information to see if we'd be a perfect fit.

INQUIRE TODAY