Top Three Mistakes When Booking Your Portrait Photographer

Booking a family portrait photographer is a significant decision. Capturing the essence of your family in a timeless image is something most people value for years to come. However, clients often make several mistakes when hiring a photographer that can impact the quality of the experience. For families in Omaha, Nebraska, this process can be even more daunting, considering the variety of photographers available and the specific challenges posed by the local environment and seasonality. This blog post will discuss the top three mistakes clients make when booking a family portrait photographer in Omaha, Nebraska and how to avoid them.

One of the most common mistakes clients make when booking a family portrait photographer is failing to thoroughly research the photographer’s style and specialization. Every photographer has a unique approach, and not all styles will align with what you want for your family portraits.

When it comes to family portraits, the photographer’s style can make all the difference between a series of generic photos and personalized images that reflect your family’s personality. Photography styles can vary significantly, from traditional and posed to candid and lifestyle-oriented. Some photographers prefer working with natural light, while others are skilled in creating elaborate studio setups. Understanding what each photographer specializes in is crucial for making sure their approach aligns with your vision.

For instance, let’s say you want a natural, candid style that captures your family in a relaxed outdoor environment like Zorinsky Lake Park or the Heartland of America Park in Omaha. In this case, hiring a photographer who specializes in posed studio photography might not give you the results you’re hoping for. On the other hand, if you envision a more polished, formal family portrait, you wouldn’t want to hire someone whose portfolio is filled with whimsical, unposed shots in outdoor locations.

Before booking, invest time in thoroughly reviewing the photographer’s portfolio. Many Omaha-based photographers showcase their work on websites and social media platforms, so it’s relatively easy to browse through their style. Look for consistency in their work and ask yourself whether you can picture your family fitting into that style.

Additionally, ask the photographer if they have experience working with families of similar dynamics. Families with young children or elderly grandparents, for example, may require a different approach than a group of adults. Some photographers may specialize in newborn photography, while others excel in working with teens or pets, so it’s important to ensure they have experience with your unique family setup.

It’s also a good idea to ask the photographer directly about their specialization and preferences. If you want a portrait session at a specific location, ask them how they approach outdoor versus indoor sessions (You can read our blog on this topic here: Studio vs Outdoor Portraits) and whether they have worked in your desired environment before. Photographers who have experience with Omaha’s unique parks, scenic spots, or even urban settings will be more equipped to work with the lighting and terrain challenges you might encounter.

Another common mistake clients make is focusing too much on the price tag without considering the value offered by the photographer. While everyone wants to stay within their budget, choosing a photographer based purely on cost can lead to disappointment. Low-cost options might seem appealing initially, but they may come with compromises in terms of quality, professionalism, and the overall experience.

Photography is an art, and quality often correlates with experience, skill, and the investment the photographer has made in their equipment and business. In Omaha, where the cost of living is relatively moderate compared to other cities, you may find photographers offering a wide range of prices. However, going with the cheapest option could result in poorly lit photos, missed moments, or a lack of creativity in posing and composition.

On the other hand, some high-end photographers charge premium rates, but they offer a complete package that includes consultation sessions, custom prints, editing services, and perhaps even makeup artists or stylists for the day of the session. When you pay for a seasoned photographer, you’re often also paying for their years of experience, professional-grade equipment, and the ability to work seamlessly with families, including children who might not be the most cooperative subjects.

Clients sometimes mistakenly assume that photography is a commodity, where every photographer delivers the same service. But the truth is, photography is a highly specialized skill, and you get what you pay for.

Instead of focusing solely on price, consider what you’re getting for your investment. When reviewing a photographer’s pricing, ask about what’s included in the package. Do they offer just the digital files, or are there prints included? Are retouching and editing part of the deal, or are these additional costs? Does the photographer offer different levels of service based on your needs and budget?

Additionally, you should consider how the photographer handles the entire process, from the initial consultation to the final delivery of photos. Some photographers may offer a more hands-on, personalized experience, guiding you through choosing outfits, setting up locations, and even helping you design albums or wall art. Other photographers may be more hands-off, delivering digital files and leaving the rest up to you.

In Omaha, you’ll find a range of pricing structures, so take your time to compare what each photographer offers and think about the long-term value of the experience and the final product. Sometimes, spending a little more upfront can lead to images you’ll treasure for a lifetime, rather than settling for a less satisfying result that might leave you needing to reschedule in the future.

A third significant mistake clients make is underestimating the importance of location and timing in their family photo session. Omaha offers a wide range of beautiful settings, from the Missouri River banks to the vast fields of Fontenelle Forest, but not all locations work well for every family or time of year. Clients often forget to consider how critical the choice of location and the timing of the session are to the final outcome.

Omaha is a city with diverse landscapes and settings that can serve as stunning backdrops for family portraits. Whether your session is in the spring at Lauritzen Gardens, during the golden colors of autumn in Memorial Park, or on a snow-covered trail in the winter, the location sets the mood for your portraits.

However, choosing the wrong location can hinder your session. Families might opt for an outdoor location without realizing how busy or crowded the area might be, particularly in popular parks during weekends or holidays. The last thing you want is a crowd of strangers accidentally photobombing your family’s special moment.

Likewise, some outdoor locations may present lighting challenges. Natural light photographers rely heavily on the right weather and timing to get optimal lighting, especially during the “golden hour”—the hour right after sunrise or just before sunset when the light is soft and flattering. You can learn more about this at our blog post “Studio vs Outdoor Portraits“. Photographing in the middle of the day, when the sun is harsh, can result in unflattering shadows or overexposed photos.

In Omaha, where the weather can be unpredictable, you also need to consider how changing conditions will affect your shoot. A beautiful day can quickly turn cloudy or windy, making it harder to capture perfect photos outdoors.

When booking your session, consult with your photographer about the best locations and timing. Professional photographers who have been working in Omaha for a while will know which spots provide the best backdrops based on the season and time of day. For example, some photographers may recommend the scenic Old Market for an urban backdrop, while others might suggest more secluded spots like Standing Bear Lake for a quieter, nature-focused vibe.

Additionally, think about the time of year and the weather. While Omaha experiences all four seasons, each one presents different opportunities and challenges. Spring brings blooming flowers and mild weather, but rain can pose a risk. Summer offers bright, sunny days, but it can be hot and uncomfortable for extended periods outdoors. Fall is a favorite for many families because of the rich, warm colors, but schedules can fill up quickly as it’s a busy season for photographers. Winter can offer a unique, cozy feel, but cold temperatures may limit how long young children or older family members can stay outside.

In addition to discussing location, ask your photographer about the ideal time of day for your session, particularly if you’re doing an outdoor shoot. Experienced photographers will plan around the lighting conditions and help you choose the best timing for your family photos.

Booking a family portrait photographer is a decision that involves careful thought and planning. While it’s easy to make mistakes along the way, being aware of the most common pitfalls—such as neglecting to research the photographer’s style, focusing solely on price without considering value, and underestimating the importance of location and timing—can help you avoid disappointment and ensure you get the photos you’ll cherish for years to come.

If you’re looking for a photographer in Omaha, Nebraska, make sure you communicate openly with your photographer, ask plenty of questions, and take the time to choose someone whose style and expertise align with your family’s needs. With Omaha’s diverse settings and talented pool of photographers, you’ll have no trouble finding someone who can capture the essence of your family in a way that feels authentic and timeless.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can ensure that your family portrait experience is a joyful, stress-free process that results in beautiful, meaningful images that will stand the test of time. Check out our blog post “Preparing for Your Family Portrait Session” to learn more about how to set yourself up for success on your next portrait experience!