5 Tips for Finding the Perfect Family Photographer

Finding the perfect family photographer can feel a bit like searching for a unicorn—you’d like someone who not only takes beautiful pictures but also understands toddler tantrums, can capture genuine smiles from your too-cool-for-photos preteen, and won’t judge you if your kid somehow smears food all over their face between the time they leave your house, perfectly clean and photo-ready, and the time you arrive at the photo location.

The good news?

There is a photographer out there who’s the perfect fit for your family—you just need to know what to look for! That’s why I’m sharing 5 Tips for Finding the Perfect Family Photographer for Your Family. With a little know-how, you can find a photographer who makes the whole process stress-free and enjoyable (yes, even for your wildest child).

I’m participating in a blog circle this month and linking to an awesome motherhood photographer in Boston. Check out that link at the end of the post.

Tip #1: First, decide what style of family photos you love

Before you even start reaching out to photographers, you’ll want to figure out what kind of family photos you love. Every photographer has a unique style, and choosing someone whose work naturally aligns with your vision will save you a lot of stress down the road. Some photographers specialize in bright and airy images with soft, dreamy tones, while others create moody, dramatic photos with deep shadows, lots of warmth, and darker colors. Then there are photographers (like me!) who prefer vibrant, true-to-life colors.

You’ll also want to think about the kind of moments you want captured. Some family photographers focus on posed, traditional portraits where everyone is looking at the camera, while others specialize in storytelling-style photography that highlights candid interactions and movement. Do you want a mix of both? A good photographer will guide you through the session in a way that feels natural, but if you have a strong preference for either posed or candid shots, make sure the photographer’s portfolio reflects that.

Take some time to browse

Check out different photographers’ portfolios & social media pages. Notice what consistently draws you in—do you love crisp, colorful images? A soft, film-like glow? Candid, documentary-style moments? Identifying your preference will help you narrow down your options.

Most family photographers work primarily outdoors, but some also (or only) do studio photography. If you love the look of posed family portraits with a studio backdrop, you’ll want to find a photographer who specializes in studio portraits.

Still can't decide? Imagine how you want to feel when you look back on your photos

When you look back at your family photos in five or ten years, will you want them to feel timeless and classic? Playful? Dramatic?  Soft and dreamy? The right photographer will capture your family in a way that reflects your personality and aesthetic. Once you’ve identified the style you love, you’ll be one step closer to finding the perfect photographer for your family.

Tip #2: Great family photographers have serious kid skills

Family photography is equal parts art and kid-wrangling, a blend of technical expertise and the ability to embrace real moments with kids. Any parent can tell you that those real moments are often messy, unpredictable, and full of surprises. A family photographer may have a stunning portfolio, but if they’re not great at engaging kids in a way that feels fun and natural, your family photo session can quickly become frustrating instead of fun.

Since kids don’t always follow instructions, and they definitely don’t stand still on command, family photographers know that wiggly toddlers, shy preschoolers, and wrestling siblings are all part of the process. If your kids are young or on the rowdy side, you’ll want to look for someone who embraces the chaos rather than fights against it. A great family photographer will have a variety of ways to engage kids, make them laugh, and capture genuine smiles.

Skilled family photographers also know how to adapt to each child’s unique personality. Some kids warm up quickly, while others need time to feel comfortable. And others are raring to run right from the start! A good photographer won’t rush the process or expect kids to behave perfectly. Instead, they’ll take a gentle approach, easing into the session and rolling with your child’s moods. The best family photos come from real moments, and that only happens when kids feel comfortable.

Gauge their kid-friendliness by checking out their portfolio and client reviews

Do their photos of children look happy and natural, or do the kids’ expressions seem forced or uncomfortable? Are there images of kids laughing and interacting with their parents & siblings? These can be signs that the photographer knows how to create an environment where kids feel at ease.

Client reviews can also give you valuable insight—if multiple parents mention how patient and fun the photographer was, that’s a great indication that they know how to connect with children of various ages.

At the end of the day, the right photographer will make your family photo session enjoyable

Not just for your kids, but for you too. Instead of worrying about how your child is behaving, or whether they’re smiling at the right time, you can relax, be in the moment, and let the photographer do what they do best: capture your family just as they are, in all their perfectly imperfect joy.

Tip #3: Where to find a quality family photographer

Choosing between the many photographers available can feel a bit overwhelming, so here's a few ways to narrow down your search.

Ask for referrals

One of the best places to start is by asking friends and family for recommendations. A recommendation from a trusted friend can save you hours of scrolling through websites and guessing who might be a good fit. If someone you know has had a great experience with a photographer—especially if their kids are similar in age to yours—it’s a good sign that the photographer is skilled at working with families. And personal referrals often come with honest insights, so you’ll get a sense of what the experience was really like. Local parenting groups such as MOPS can also be good resources for finding someone with a solid reputation.

Do a Google search

If you’re searching on your own, Google is a great tool. Try searching for “family photographer near me” or specifying your city to get local results. Check out the Google reviews—what are parents saying about their experience with that photographer? Are there multiple mentions of a photographer being great at working with kids? Do families say they felt comfortable and not rushed? Do they talk about actually having fun during their session? Is the booking and communication process described as professional and stress-free? These details can help you separate the great photographers from the ones who might not be the best fit for your family.

Look on Facebook & Instagram

Social media is another great place to look. Searching Instagram or Facebook with keywords like “[your city] family photographer” can help you find photographers whose style you love. Many photographers also share behind-the-scenes content or client testimonials, giving you a feel for their personality and approach. Client reviews on Facebook can also give you a real sense of what it's like to work with that photographer. And if a photographer doesn't have many reviews on Facebook, look for their Google reviews (or vice versa). Many photographers prioritize getting reviews on one platform over another, so not having many reviews on a platform may just mean that the majority of their reviews are in a different location.

Local Listings

Finally, if you're in a larger city or metro area, check out local “Best of” lists, such as those compiled by magazines, parenting websites, or community groups. These lists often highlight top-rated photographers in your area, and while they’re not the only way to find a great photographer, they can be a helpful starting point.

Looking for a photographer in Great Falls, MT? Check out this list of 10 top Great Falls photographers.

Tip #4: What to consider when looking at prices

Prices for family photography can vary widely, and it’s important to know what you’re getting before you book a session. Some photographers offer all-inclusive packages that include some or all of the digital images, while others have a session fee with prints and digitals sold separately. Understanding the details upfront will help you avoid surprises. Before choosing a photographer, take a close look at their pricing structure and make sure it aligns with what you want, whether that’s a full gallery of digital images to share with family or a few framed prints for your home.

It’s also helpful to consider what you’re really paying for. A photographer with more experience working with families, a strong portfolio, and a reputation for making sessions stress-free will likely cost more than someone just starting out or offering budget-friendly services. But that extra investment often translates to a smoother session and more photos you truly love. As you compare options, take a close look at the photographer’s portfolio and social media—does their work have a consistent style, or do the editing and photo quality seem to vary? A lack of consistency can signal a less-experienced photographer or one who is still refining their approach, which can affect the quality & consistency of your photos also.

Tip #5: Choose a photographer you click with

The more comfortable you feel with your photographer, the more comfortable you’ll feel on photo day with them behind the camera. Since family photography involves real emotions and interactions, you want someone who makes the experience feel natural, relaxed, and—dare I say it—fun! A photographer’s energy sets the tone for the entire session. If they’re warm, engaging, and great with kids, your family is more likely to feel at ease, leading to genuine smiles and natural moments. But if they seem rushed, awkward, or overly rigid, it can make the session feel stressful instead of enjoyable.

One of the best ways to gauge a photographer’s personality is to have a quick conversation before booking. Some family photographers offer phone or video consultations, or you can also get a good sense of their vibe through email exchanges or social media. Do they sound friendly and approachable? Do they seem patient and understanding? If you feel comfortable chatting with them, chances are you’ll feel comfortable in front of their camera, too.

At the end of the day, your family photos should feel like you—full of love, connection, and personality.

The right photographer will make the entire process enjoyable, from the first email to the final gallery delivery. When you find someone who feels like the perfect match, you’ll not only love your photos, but you’ll actually look forward to your next family session.

Finding the perfect family photographer for you isn’t just about find a photographer with beautiful images—it’s finding the one who’ll help your family feel comfortable, capture real moments, and make the experience stress-free. Take your time, do your research, and when you find that perfect fit, you’ll have family photos you’ll cherish for years to come.

Hopefully these tips will make your search a little easier! And if you’re looking for a photographer who can embrace the chaos, loves working with kids, and captures real, joyful moments, I’d love to chat with you. Let’s make some magic together!

Looking for a family photographer in Great Falls, MT? Learn more about my family photo sessions for Great Falls, MT families here.

Ready to capture some memories for your family?

Don’t forget to check out this post on Boston Mini Sessions by Molly Katherine Photography, where she shares details about her 2025 Motherhood Event!