5 ways to say goodbye to bad family photos

(BPT) – Nowadays, it seems like everyone’s a photographer. This isn’t just because the cameras on our smartphones are always at our side, it’s because digital cameras have advanced in such a way that it’s easier and more affordable to snap great photos.

However, having the technology does not mean you have the artistic or technical skills to take great photos every time. Only professional photographers can consistently capture your family’s unique personality and create artistic portraits that will be cherished forever.

We’ve all seen a number of embarrassingly bad family photographs which should be argument enough to seek out a professional photographer. So where should you begin? The five tips below will help you find a family portrait photographer that is right for your family’s unique personality:

1. Visit them online. Photographers’ website and social media profiles are a good place to see samples of their work, read client testimonials and get a better sense of their personality. Of course, photographers will put their best work on their website, so you always want to dig a little deeper by checking their social media pages and customer reviews on third party websites. You can quickly find family portrait photographers in your area by going to FindAPhotographer.com.

2. Match their style to your vision. A photographer’s style is reflected in his or her portfolio and asking for a radically different style is a recipe for disaster. If you want a large portion of your session to be in black and white, find a photographer who loves black and white. If you want a natural, candid session with minimal posing, find a photographer whose existing work reflects that.

3. Notice how they use light. Any good photographer knows that the key to great images comes from having the right lighting. As a customer, it’s not your job to know an F-stop from an aperture, but as you review portfolios and websites, pay special attention to the photographer’s use of light – in doing so, you’ll see how an expert can use light to take an image from OK to amazing!

4. Make a connection. A good photographer will be excited to work with you before and after the photo session. Best case scenario, meet the photographer to ensure there is mutual chemistry between the two of you. Even better, bring your kids with you to see how they and the photographer relate to each other. Most photographers perform better when they have a good connection with a family… and it shows in the pictures.

5. Understand what you’re getting for your money. Don’t be afraid to ask these questions: How much time is included in the session, what’s included in each package, how and when will proofs be delivered, what types of albums are available, and when will final photos be ready? Pros will always include these details and more in your contract.

To show one lucky family the difference a professional photographer can make, Professional Photographers of America (PPA) is giving you a chance to win a family portrait session for up to $1,000 by submitting your worst family photo to PPA.com/Contest. The contest begins Friday, Nov. 20, and all types of family photos qualify – from first steps (or falls) to planned events like weddings, family reunions, proms, sports events, birthday parties, graduations, and more!

If you find that you have too many family photos that qualify for the Worst Family Photo Contest, maybe it’s time to find a professional photographer in your area and see for yourself how a pro can help you preserve your family memories before it’s too late.