What to Ask Your Family Photographer
Before Booking a Session
By Theresa Steffen Photography — serving Westchester, Fairfield & Putnam County families
Choosing the right photographer for your family is such an important decision. You’re not just hiring someone to take pictures but you’re also inviting them to capture your family’s love, connection, and story.
As a family photographer serving Westchester, Fairfield, and Putnam Counties, I love when clients come prepared with questions! It shows that you care about the experience and want to find the right fit.
So, before you book your next family session, here are a few great questions to ask!
1. What’s Your Photography Style?
Every photographer has their own approach; some are more traditional and posed, while others (like me!) love a natural, storytelling style that focuses on real connections.
When you ask about style, think about what feels most “you.”
Do you want polished, camera-ready portraits? Or relaxed, playful images that feel like real life?
While, I do make sure to capture that "Christmas Card Image", most of the session is focused on enjoying your families company.
Tip: Look through a photographer’s portfolio or Instagram feed and you should instantly connect with the emotions and tone in their work.
2. Where Do You Photograph Families?
Ask your photographer where they typically shoot because location sets the mood for your entire session.
Do they specialize in in-home sessions, outdoor settings, or both?
For example, I love photographing families in their favorite local spots like a golden-hour field in Westchester, a cozy backyard in Fairfield, or a quiet park in Putnam County. I also offer in-home sessions that feel intimate and personal. These aren't just for newborn sessions, after all, this is the place your family spends most of their time.
The best locations are the ones that feel comfortable and meaningful to your family.
3. What Should We Wear?
This is probably the question I get most often — and it’s an important one!
When in doubt, I recommend neutral tones, soft textures, and colors that coordinate (not match). Your outfits should help tell your story, not distract from it. Prior to my sessions, I send a prep guide that offers some outfit guidance.
Ask if your photographer provides a style guide or inspiration board to make planning easier.
4. How Do You Help Families Feel Comfortable?
Family sessions should be fun and never stressful!
Ask your photographer how they approach working with kids (and camera-shy grownups).
I always focus on making sessions relaxed and playful with easy prompts like “snuggle in close,” “walk hand in hand,” or “who has smelly feet.” The goal is to capture real connection, not perfection.
You’ll know you’ve found the right photographer when you at ease and everyone enjoys the experience.
5. What’s Included in Your Packages?
It’s important to know exactly what’s included before you book. Ask about:
- Session length (and whether it’s a full session or mini session)
- How many edited images you’ll receive
- Delivery time for your gallery
- How will the images be delivered
6. How Do You Handle Unpredictable Situations?
Kids have moods. Weather changes. Life happens.
Ask how your photographer handles unpredictable situations. This could be rescheduling due to rain or taking breaks when little ones need a breather.
A good family photographer knows how to pivot with patience and humor because real life never goes perfectly.
7. What Makes You Love Photographing Families?
For me, photographing families is about capturing all the in between moments. This is when the real connections and stories are told and it's an honor to be able to preserve these for families for years to come.
When you’re choosing a family photographer you should feel comfortable, excited, and confident that they’ll tell your family’s story accurately.
I'd love to chat if you’re in Westchester, Fairfield, or Putnam County and looking for a warm, natural, connection-driven photography experience.
Check out my portfolio and learn more about my photography offerings here.
