• How do I know if this person is the right photographer for me?
    • What if I don’t like my pictures?
    • I feel anxious about this whole thing. What if it gets awkward?

I have prepared this quick guide to help you navigate any feelings of uncertainty that typically come with having your photos done, and I can guarantee that if you follow these steps, you’re well on your way to getting photos you will love.

Portrait of engaged couple done by Scottsdale Portrait Photographer

Step 1: Have a vision for what you want your photographs to look like.

This will help you choose the right person for the job. Look at their portfolio, and make sure that it lines up with your vision.

Discuss your vision with your potential photographer, to be sure that they are the right person to help you achieve it. Even if you’re not totally sure what you want, think about ONE thing about your portrait that is important to you, and lead with that.

Find a random photo you love, and tell them WHY you love it.

All a great photographer needs, is an idea from you, and they will work with you to flesh out the rest completely.

Step 2: Hire someone you know

Getting photographed is something a lot of people are skeptical or anxious about. I have noticed that people like this tend to relax a little more when they are being photographed by someone they know.

“But I don’t know any professional photographers.”

Step 3: Schedule an in person (or video) consultation with your potential photographer.

If you have kids, pets, (and you can fit this into your schedule) let your photographer meet them at least once before your portrait session. Don’t be afraid to do this. It doesn’t have to be a long meeting. 30 minutes is more than enough for a quick introduction and consultation session.

Think of it this way – if this person is going to be all up in your space, photographing you, you might as well start getting comfortable with them now. Professional photographers who focus on creating the best results for their clients, WANT to go the extra mile to make sure that they set the stage for a relaxing, stress-free and fun portrait experience.

Step 4: Never underestimate the role of a well planned wardrobe.

When you see a beautiful portrait, you are looking a lot of things coming together to present a visually pleasing image. Style is huge part of it.

Your photographer should go over every single bit of your photoshoot experience, including a comprehensive guide to styling you and your family to achieve your vision.

Step 5: Think about how you’d like to display your photographs once you have them.

Depending on what kind of session you’re planning, you may want to showcase your beautiful photographs in different ways.

For an intimate portrait (similar to boudoir), you may want a piece of wall art that goes over your bed in the master bedroom. You might also want a collection of images for an album that’ll reside in your bedside drawer.

A nicely done family portrait might look fantastic over the couch in the living, on a wall in your home office, or on a desk in your work place outside the home. You might want copies of gift prints for the grand parents, or a family album chronicling the entire family portrait experience. You might even want optimized digital copies that go out on beautifully designed digital greeting cards.

Thinking about these ahead of time helps you clarify your vision better and allows you enjoy your portraits many years after your session is long gone. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.

As your photographer, I go through all these steps and many more with you to ensure that you have the best experience, complete with photographs that you absolutely love.

I invite you to schedule a phone call with me, let’s go over your needs and book you in for your very own photoshoot.