Tips for hiring a family photographer: What to ask! With so many family photographers out there, it can be tough to choose the right one. Prices and services vary a lot, making it hard to know what you’re getting. But don’t worry, this guide is here to help you find the perfect photographer for your family. Choosing the right family photographer is about more than just finding someone with a good camera; you want someone who makes you feel comfortable, provides a great experience, and creates family portraits you'll be proud to display for years to come.

Here are some key things to consider that will help you find a family photographer who is the perfect fit for your family.

1. What is their editing style?
2. Is their style consistent?
3. Do we have a connection?
4. Do they offer a pre-session consultation?
5. What is their experience working with children & families?
6. Do the families look happy and relaxed in the portraits?
7. Do they help with wardrobe & styling?
8. Will they help you choose a gorgeous location?
9. Can they help with printing and displaying your family portraits?
10. How much do they charge?

1. What is their editing style?

Every professional family photographer has a unique editing style, their signature look, which they've likely spent years perfecting. Start by browsing through their online portfolio and family galleries. If you are consistently drawn to their work, chances are you'll love what they create for your family too. Pay attention to the colours, contrasts, and overall feel of the photos. Keep in mind that trendy edits can look outdated after a few years, so it's often best to go with someone whose style is natural and whose colours look true to life.

My editing style is natural, with a focus on keeping colours authentic. My editing process includes removing distractions like light poles and bins, enhancing skin tones for a beautiful finish, and adding a touch of warm, magical light. This brings us to the next question...

2. Is their editing style consistent?

A consistent and cohesive look throughout a photographer's website is a good sign of a professional photographer. It shows they have spent time and effort perfecting their editing skills to produce reliable results every time. Check their portfolio to see if their editing style stays consistent across different sessions. If it does, you can expect your family portraits to have a similar look and feel to the ones you admired. On the other hand, if you see a mixed bag, it might mean the photographer is still experimenting, which could lead to unpredictable results. You don’t want to end up with a set of photos that look like they came from different sessions. A consistent style means you can trust that what you see is what you’ll get, no surprises!

3. Do we have a connection?

Having a good connection with your photographer can really impact the final outcome of your photos. When you have your initial consultation or phone call, think about how comfortable you feel with them. Are they friendly and easy to talk to? Do they listen to your ideas and address your concerns? Now consider...

4. Do they offer a pre-session consultation?

Does the photographer offer a pre-session consultation before the session? This is your chance to discuss your vision, share ideas, chat about location, plan wardrobe and get to know each other. A consultation ensures that everyone is on the same page and that there are no surprises on the day of the shoot. Plus, it helps you feel like you’re being photographed by a friend, which can make the experience much more comfortable and natural. No one wants to feel awkward meeting their photographer for the first time on shoot day—this way, it’s more like hanging out with someone you already know! Learn more about our pre-session consultation here.

5. What is their experience with children & families?

Working with kids takes patience, creativity, and a touch of magic. A photographer who specialises in family photography understands the unique dynamics of working with children and knows how to handle the unpredictable—whether it’s a sudden toddler meltdown or a shy kid who doesn’t want to smile. Look for a professional who has extensive experience and expertise in photographing families, someone who’s seen it all and knows how to turn potential chaos into magical moments. The right photographer will be able to navigate the ups and downs of a session, even when the day doesn’t go exactly as planned. Because let’s face it, with kids, things rarely do!

6. Do the families look comfortable and relaxed in the photos?

One of the best ways to judge a photographer’s work is to see if the families in their portraits look genuinely happy and relaxed. Forced smiles and stiff poses are a no-go. You want to see natural laughter, playful moments, and those cozy family snuggles. If the families in the photos look like they’re having a great time, that’s a sign of a skilled photographer who knows how to create a comfortable atmosphere.

7. Do they help with wardrobe & styling?

A great family photographer will go above and beyond to help with your wardrobe choices. A cohesive look can really make your family portraits stand out and ensure you’ll love them for years to come. Check out their online galleries to see the styles and colours they use in their sessions. If you like what you see, there's a good chance you'll want a similar style for your own family.

Some photographers even offer a client closet, which is a collection of outfits available for you to borrow. Depending on the photographer, this might include outfits for the whole family, just for moms, or just for kids. This can be a huge help, as it can take the stress out of coordinating outfits, so you don’t have to worry about matching everything perfectly.

If a client closet isn’t available, ask if the photographer provides wardrobe consultation services. Having this kind of support can boost your confidence, knowing your family will look polished and well-coordinated in the final images.

I have a wardrobe for kids aged 6 months to 12 years and offer a pre-session consultation where I help moms with wardrobe choices.

8. Will they help you choose a gorgeous location?

A stunning location can really elevate your outdoor family photos. Professional family photographers spend hours finding the best spots—ones with beautiful scenery, lots of variety, convenient parking, and a safe environment for everyone. Since locations can look very different depending on the season, an experienced photographer will recommend spots that are perfect for the time of year. They’ll provide you with a list of their top location choices, so you don’t have to stress about picking one yourself. This way, you can relax and enjoy the shoot while they take care of the details!

9. Can they help with printing and displaying your family portraits?

Taking great photos is just the beginning. If you want to go beyond digital files, look for a photographer who can help you bring your family memories to life with high-quality printing and display options. A photographer who offers premium print products and expert guidance on how to display your family photos adds significant value to your family portrait experience. There is nothing quite like seeing your beautiful family portraits adorning your walls, filling your home with love and joy.

10. How much do they charge?

Let’s talk family photography prices in Perth. It’s a common question—everyone loves a good deal, right? But it's important to think about what you might be giving up with lower-priced options. Experienced family photographers often charge more because they’re really good at what they do. They know how to handle lighting, choose the right location, pose naturally, style your shoot, and work well with families and kids. They bring a lot of value by delivering top-quality photos, offering a smooth and professional experience, and handling any surprises that come up during the shoot. Remember, these are moments that you just can't get back so don’t settle for a bargain photographer. Sometimes, splurging a bit is worth it for portraits that will make you and your family smile for years!

Ready to hire a family photographer?

I’m Suri, and I’d love to create some magic for your family this year! Based in Swan Valley, Western Australia, I photograph families all over Perth, Swan Valley, and the Perth Hills. You can learn more about my family photography sessions here, and if you like what you see, just fill out the contact form to book a friendly phone consultation..