The Professional Portrait–How to Get Your Money’s Worth

Looking to get a fabulous photo done of the family? Breezy Mama got the 411 from professional photographer Heather (Vallentyne) Moreau on what you need to know to get that perfect picture.

Finding a high quality professional photographer to help you record your family’s memories can be a daunting task and one that is easy to put off–but these special years of watching your babies grow only happen once and it’s important to have memories of the moments you will remember for a lifetime. Here are some useful tips on finding the perfect photographer to capture these moments and produce the results you are looking for.

How do I find a photographer?
The best way to find a great photographer is through personal recommendation–talk to your friends, send out an email or make a few phone calls to get names of photographers that have worked for people you know and trust. Many of the best photographers don’t do much advertising simply because they don’t need to—they get work by word of mouth.

If you don’t have a recommendation, the internet can be an overwhelming tool when searching, but also one that is invaluable in narrowing your search and showing you what is out there. Make your search specific and include terms like city or area, family portraiture or specialized in newborns and babies, inexpensive or high end, etc…

How can I be prepared to get what I want?
Most importantly, have a game plan.  Important questions to ask yourself are:

• Am I looking for a very traditional type of photo? Is it posed and perfect? Or, is it more of a lifestyle shot (i.e. my child is running and playing)
• What do I want to do with these pictures? Is there an empty wall in my home that needs a large print? Do I want a small album to keep in my purse and show friends? Am I looking for gifts for grandparents?
• What is my budget? It is important to have a budget in mind, but be sure to keep it somewhat flexible.

Once you find a few websites that you feel connected to the images and style, give the photographers a call to inquire about how the process works. Give them a chance to explain their system because most photographers have a unique one. This also gives you the opportunity to explain your goals and see if you are well suited for each other. The more information you can share with each other in the beginning, the better! As long as your understanding of what the photographer provides, and their understanding of what you are looking for is solid, there is little chance of confusion and misunderstanding in the future.

Set the date!
Once you have clicked with the photographer of your choice and you are confident of the arrangement, set up the photo shoot time for what works best for your child’s schedule. Make sure they are well rested and fed before the shoot and if they are under the weather feel free to reschedule. No one wants to capture memories of a time they were feeling sick and yucky!

What clothes are best?
When it comes to clothes simplicity is best. A white onesie or denim with a simple cotton top is beautiful. Sweaters with hoods are also great. Try to pick a color that really goes beautifully with their eyes or skin tone as it will really enhance the images. Clothing with texture (lace, corduroy, knits) is also beautiful. Cute accessories such as hats, sunglasses or blankets also add a fun element. Or, you can forget the clothes–there is nothing sweeter than a baby at bath time covered in bubbles.

What about props?
Props are great; you just want to make sure that they aren’t too cheesy or unnatural. A big chunky necklace, favorite doll, a ball, a few fresh cut flowers, sea shells, or even sunglasses are great to use. Personally, I love to photograph hands and feet, so it is great to have them holding something they love.

Best location for the shoot?
Your home is usually the environment where a child is most comfortable. Make sure that everything is tidy and well lit by sunlight. Your backyard or a nearby park are also  great locations and the beach (if you live by it) is an all time favorite. If you are shooting outside look for a nice shady area so the light is soft and more comfortable.

Lastly, the most important tip I can offer is to have a fun time! Your child will pick up on your mood and follow right along. If you make a fun game out of it everyone will have a great time and the photos will be beautiful.

Breezy Mama Exclusive! Heather is giving away a photography portrait session of your choice {pregnancy, baby, child, family, or pet}. Included in the package is an initial portrait consultation, projection ordering session, and one matted 8×10 fine art print. Total package valued at $500. Winner will need to contact Heather within two weeks of receipt to verify and schedule consultation (San Diego, California).

(Note: Already a subscriber to Breezy Mama? You are already entered to win! Not a subscriber? Sign up to receive Breezy Mama in your email in-box and be entered to win! It’s free! Click here.)

Heather (Vallentyne) Moreau is a Southern California wedding and portrait photographer with a love of shooting people and traveling to locations all over the world to do it. Photographing weddings and families and producing memories for people that will last a lifetime is the most rewarding career she can imagine. Heather lives with her husband and 2 adorable and funny dogs, all three of whom compete for attention! She loves to cook (and eat!), travel, read great books, drink good wine, do anything outdoors, and also spends entirely too much time on the computer but believes it is for a good cause. For more information regarding photography services, please contact her through her website or email her directly: heather@vallentynephotography.com for more information.

*All photos are taken by Heather (Vallentyne) Moreau

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