One of my favorite things about photography is that there truly is a photographer for everyone. Every photographer has something unique to offer his or her clients, and it’s incredibly important to figure out what that is before you hire someone yourself! However, that process can be overwhelming to the untrained eye. After all, how do you know what to look for?!

There are many things I could say on this topic, but they all boil down to one thing: style.

One of the most important things to think about when searching for a photographer is what your desired style will be: the overall experience and output you hope to receive from your session.

Questions you may want to ask: Are you looking for formal posed photos or fun outdoor shots? Serious images or shots that capture interaction? Are you satisfied with someone who simply shows up and takes some photos, or do you want to feel comfortable around them — as if you’re already friends? There are no right or wrong answers here; it’s entirely up to you!

For example, I knew exactly what kind of images I would get when I hired Jamie to photograph our wedding in 2012. They would be bright, fun, and full of color — we would do walking and laughing poses AND there would be some more formal shots thrown in the mix, too. Based off of her online presence, I also knew Jamie would be FUN and hoped we would be fast friends! Second shooting with her was a big help in this, but I would have known all these things just from following her blog!

Which brings me to my main point: I talked about the importance of blogging as a photographer a few months ago, but it’s just as important to view your potential photographer’s blog as a client, too! There is no better way to discover someone’s style than by analyzing their online voice and viewing past sessions. Period!

Now, I know not every photographer blogs, but their work is out there somewhere. Follow their Instagram, like their Facebook page, and check out their website! It matters! There are amazing photographers EVERYWHERE, but they all offer something different. Your job? To figure out what that is!

Now, I know I just said that your job is to figure out a photographer’s style, but I actually don’t quite mean that. Ha! Personally, I believe it is the photographer’s job to educate YOU! This is why I am so passionate about blogging intentionally, sharing consistent images, and marketing personally. I want to make it absolutely clear what you will get if you choose to work with me!

After all, “lifestyle photography” looks a little different to everyone! I can say I’m a “lifestyle” photographer…but what does that really look like? According to Dictionary.com, lifestyle is the “way of life or style of living that reflects the attitudes and values of a person or group”. While some photographers take a complete “fly on the wall” lifestyle approach and choose to not direct a single motion and photograph people as they are, I am discovering that I am more of a mixture: I hope to capture the attitudes and values of my clients through their relationships while also providing some direction.

My favorite images are usually ones where EMOTION is captured, and, while that typically involves at least one person looking away from the camera, I also like to give my clients some guidance to make them more comfortable!

The below image is a perfect example. I love the way Kent is looking at Kim in this image — that was all him! I didn’t tell him what to think or how to pose…he did that naturally. In the first image, Kim was looking at him as well, which was great! But then, I asked her to look at me with a soft smile, and said something goofy to make her break into a huge smile right after! Natural moments…with a little direction :)

Now that you’ve heard a little about my approach to photography and choosing someone you love, I’d love to hear yours!

What do you look for in a photographer? How do you educate your clients about your style? What are your thoughts on lifestyle sessions?

Can’t wait to hear from you!

Love love love,

Sami