How to Choose a Family Photographer in Edmonton

Fall is around the corner (I swear it is) and fall family photos book fast. All of a sudden you’re staring at dozens of photographer profiles wondering how on earth you’re supposed to choose. And then on top of it all you're worried your kids won’t cooperate? If that is the case keep reading, because that’s the number one question I get and I've got an answer to it.

First though, Let’s slow down for a moment. If you have searched for Edmonton family photography anywhere lately, it can feel slightly overwhelming because there are sooooooo many Edmonton photographers! Especially in the areas of newborn and family photography. Honestly, I think it is incredible. It is inspiring to see so many artistic entrepreneurs entering the field. It pushes photographers to be creative and evolve, which is where we all get to grow instead of becoming stagnant. But the question still then remains: How to choose a family photographer in Edmonton?

The problem is, as a consumer, it may feel overwhelming. How do you pick the right person to capture your family’s story just from looking at a website portfolio or Instagram profile? I completely understand, so I’m breaking down some things for you to look for, as well as questions to ask when looking for an Edmonton family photographer.

From the Beginning: Look at Photographic Style and Quality

“When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence.”

― Ansel Adams

Art is subjective. Something loved by one person may be disliked by another. When you begin your search for photographers look at their photographs and let them speak to you. Notice the colours, whether muted and soft, bold and colourful, or dark and moody. Notice the people and what they are doing. Are they still and posed, moving, and can you feel the emotion?

Photographic quality becomes important here too. While yes, photography rules are often meant to be broken, that is the artistic process to a degree,. But photographic quality does play a role.

Try not to focus too much on the background. The setting can be changed easily, but the people in it, what they are doing, and how they have been documented is so important. Every style has a purpose and a place. No one is right or wrong, but what evokes emotion in you? How do you want your story to be told?

My style is very intentional. It’s colourful and vibrant to bring feelings of joy. It’s filled with movement and interaction to tell a story without words, one that is based on the relationships of the people in the photos.

Next: Questions to Ask When Determining How to Choose a Family Photographer in Edmonton

Step one is done and you have narrowed it down to a style you like. Now what? Here are some ideas of questions to ask and things to look for when choosing. Remember, this is like interviewing them to see if you are a good fit.

Some of the answers to these questions might already be on their website, or when you contact them they might provide a welcome guide or session prep guide that breaks down commonly asked questions for you. Both welcome and prep guides are something I provide to my clients, to help them have all the information they need and to reassure them. If a photographer is resistant to answering questions or doesn’t have an answer, well... that says a lot. But here are the most common questions, with the last one being probably the most important.

What is your pricing?

There are lots of different ways to do photography pricing and lots of different things that go into running a business that will impact photographer pricing. Most photographers have pricing on their website, at the very least they have a starting point. Make sure you understand completely what is included and what is not included. I cannot stress this enough. My pricing is listed in full transparency on my website here.

What location should we use for our photos?

This is a common stressor for many people. Location is one of the most personal elements of a photo session. I always ask my clients how they want their photos to feel!

We work together to select the perfect location for your family. That might be your home or backyard, a local Edmonton playground, a field with golden light, a cool downtown location, or somewhere you can get ice cream. I have so many locations (many of which you can see throughout the blog and gallery) and make lots of suggestions for you too choose from. I will support you through the process of picking a location 100% of the way.

How long are your photo sessions?

My family sessions are typically about an hour long, give or take. After almost 17 years of experience, I find this is the perfect amount of time to have everyone warm up and get comfortable with me, while also not becoming too overstimulated and tired by the end of the session.

As a family photographer, the emphasis is on having enough time to tell your story and to allow you and your loved ones to have a memorable and interactive experience. One you can remember when you look back on your photos. Sometimes this means we do something fun during your photos and I have lots of suggestions for that too!

Remember this isn't AI, this is your family memories.

This length of session does contrast with short 'mini' type sessions, but if you want to know more about the difference between the two, check out this post here.

What happens if the weather is bad?

I joke that the one superpower I have yet to refine is my ability to control the weather, and sometimes we are at the mercy of Mother Nature.

If the weather is rainy (or snowing!), we try to reschedule if we were planning to shoot outside. Sometimes timing doesn’t allow for that and the show must go on. Then we pivot and may move the location. This might be inside your home, my studio, or another backup location.

What if my kids don't 'behave' and they are too shy, wild, or misbehaving?

For parents, this is often one of the biggest fears. And let’s normalize for a moment that you are not alone in that fear.

I know how much work goes on behind the scenes by you to prepare everyone, coordinate the perfect outfit, and get everyone out the door to meet me in time for golden hour. Plus, this is a financial investment. What if the kids just don’t cooperate in one way or another?

This is where I need you to trust me. I’ve been told by many clients over the years that I’m a baby whisperer or child whisperer. They often tell me how much fun everyone had during their photos, and how even though they were nervous at the start, how their toddler has never warmed up that quick to someone new, how parents or teens felt relaxed right away and forgot they were even taking pictures.

So how do I do that? How do I not worry about children who are too shy or wild?

We move and play a lot, which is part of it. We take breaks or have a snack if needed. But ultimately, the backbone of this is simply me. My personality and my ability to connect with people. To make them feel seen and comfortable with me, while we have fun together. It isn’t something taught in online photographer education or training. It’s just me, and it can’t be replicated.

I hope that helps answer some questions to think about and how to choose a family photographer in Edmonton. My photography and my art focus on story-telling photo sessions that are relationship-driven and captured with intention. I’m here to support you and answer any other questions you may have.

If fall family photos are on your mind, my calendar tends to fill quickly this time of year. If my style feels like the right fit for your family, I’d love to connect.

Christy xoxo