6 Questions You Should Be Asking Your Photographer 

1. How long have you been a photographer?  The longer a photographer has been in business, the more likely it is that it’s not just a hobby for them. 

2. Which types of photography do you specialize in?  It’s uncommon for a photographer to specialize in several different types of photography as they often only specialize in one or sometimes two genres.  For example, a photographer who specializes in newborn photography might not be the best candidate to shoot wedding photos unless they have the experience in doing so. 

3. Do you have many repeat clients? This is a great test of not only the quality of a photographer’s work but of their customer service too. 

4. What is your policy on rescheduling a session?  An experienced photographer will definitely have a policy in place when it comes to a customer cancelling or rescheduling a photography session.  A photographer with policies indicates that they have experience with different types of customers and situations and have created policies accordingly. 

5. Have you had any experience with (name your specific concern)?  If you have any specific concerns regarding your photo session such as the photographer’s ability to work with a special needs child for example, find out if they have ever handled that type of situation before. Do not dismiss a photographer and their abilities based on their answers to your concerns. If given adequate notice, an experienced photographer should be able to deal with any situation you present them. This is the hallmark of a true pro. 

6. Silent Question: Use your gut to judge their personality and rapport. A photographer’s main job is to capture emotions and moments. If your photographer doesn’t mesh well with you on the phone, in person or in messaging, chances are you and your family will not mesh well with them at your session and this will show in your photos. 

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One of my very first clients.

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It's amazing to document their family grow.  

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She was so tiny and is now a big sister.  Love this so much!

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Since I have you here let me tell you a little about me, Kim Steward of Kim Steward Photography!

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I've been a professional photographer since 2013 and I specialize in family portraits.  I take pride in being given the name Lifetime Photographer by my repeat clients.  I have client testimonials on my website and on my Facebook Business Page.  

A deposit is required at the time of booking a photo session and it's taken out of your final balance due.  A 24 hours notice is needed to reschedule a session or else your deposit is forfeited.   

I hope this blog helps in booking your next photo session.  

Kim

How to Decide What to Wear to Your Photoshoot

Top tips for getting the most out of your professional photography session. 

If you are prepping for your first photoshoot you probably have a couple questions about what to expect. A common concern for people having their photos taken for the first time is what to wear. 

Here are 7 Top Tips for Deciding What to Wear for a Photoshoot

1. What is the purpose of the photoshoot? This should be your first thought when deciding what to wear. Choose an appropriate outfit for the occasion and something that suits your personality!

2. Keep the location & season in mind. Where is the photoshoot taking place? Choose an outfit that will keep you feeling comfortable and confident. For example, if you’re on a beach, those new high heels might not be the most logical choice.

3. Mix and match. Don’t be afraid to wear patterns or prints for your photoshoot but keep them to a minimum and try to pair them with solid colors. If you’re having a family photoshoot for example, have two family members in printed items and two in solid colors. Play with different colors to match the mood and setting of the shoot.  

4. Make your photos timeless. You might love that trendy top or pair of pants now but will your photos stand the test of time if you wear that item of clothing? 

5. What to do about makeup. This would depend on the type of photos you are taking. Fashion shoots will call for more dramatic makeup but for your everyday maternity, family or portrait shoots, keep your makeup more natural and obviously super cute.

6. Fit is more important that you think. If you already have an outfit in mind for your shoot, try it on before the time to make sure that it fits correctly and you're happy with it. 

7. Try not to go brand crazy. Wearing too much clothing with prominent brand names (unless it's your own brand and it's a branding shoot) just makes you look like a walking ad. Clothing with large graphics on it also doesn’t work well either as it will end up being the focus of your photos.  

Remember to have fun on your photoshoot and be yourself!!  Your photographer will definitely guide you the whole way through.  

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Why Your Photographer Loves What They Do 

If you have ever wondered what spurs on a photographer’s passion, you are about to find out! Below are just some of the many reasons your photographer wouldn’t change their job for anything in the world. 

1. Photography changes how she see things. She notices colors, textures, flowers, trees, people, shapes and light in a way most people never see them.   IMG_9889

2. She pays more attention to the beauty around her. Even the most mundane object can become beautiful when you photograph it in a creative way. Many photographers love their job because they develop a fascination with the world around them by viewing it through new eyes.  IMG_3587

3. It's an amazing creative outlet. She gets the chance to put a little bit of who she is into each photo that she takes. Anyone can click a camera's buttons but not everyone can truly make a photo come to life.  IMG_3053

4. It's a challenge. Creating amazing photos that capture the magic of everyday life doesn’t come without hard work, dedication and imagination. There is always something new to explore and a new way to take the same photos. It’s a job that never gets boring.  IMG_7103

5. She gets to meet new people all the time!  A photographer works with people from all walks of life. Getting to know someone new is a part of the process of bringing someone’s personality through in a photo. It also makes the job so much fun!  IMG_3049

6. The flexibility is great. Working her day job full time allows her to photograph in the evening during the golden hours, which is the perfect time for a session anyway. This doesn’t mean it’s a laid back profession though. A photographer is always aiming to perfect their craft, taking on new challenges and helping their clients achieve the most perfect pictures. I work hard before, during and after every session! IMG_4772  

When you decide to pay for a professional photo session, know that you are hiring an individual who is passionate about what they do and is willing to go the extra mile to help you create beautiful photos that you can treasure forever. 

XOXO

Kim

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