Looking for a family photographer can be a bit daunting, can't it? You start to feel like you are TRULY comparing apples to... I don't know - DUCKS, or something, right?

I totally get it - I arranged a photo session for my family over Thanksgiving weekend and even with my experience, it was a bit challenging to compare services, fees, print costs, etc.

Would you like some seasoned advice?

Here are my 7 BEST TIPS FOR FINDING THE BEST FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER FOR YOU:

• TIP #7) Check out their website and don't be afraid to ask for pricing! Look at you - you're right on track! Pricing is important, but don't stop there! Pricing is really only ONE aspect you should consider when looking for a family photographer and it isn't even the most important! Definitely check out their website - do you like the images? How's that About page - do they seem like someone you can relate to?

• TIP #6) Ask them about their process. How do they handle booking (does it sound easy and straight-forward? Do you have your choice of dates and times or are these limited? Once the session is booked, do they provide any location or outfit assistance? How are the images delivered? (You can find the answers to these questions in my Family Portrait Guide - or reach out!)

• TIP #5) Do they offer printed products? While you may plan to just get digitals and do your own printing, it's vital to work with a photographer who understands how to prepare images for printing. And you may find you'd prefer to let them handle all that for you. It can be more complicated than you might think!

• TIP #4) Check out their locations. They may list these on their website or you may need to ask them what their favorite locations are. You want to find a photographer that has a good mix of locations, so that you can find one that suits the "vibe" you want for your family photos. Are you looking for a natural field, a groomed park, a rustic barn, a kitschy historic area, a gritty urban look, etc? And if you aren't sure, your photographer should be able to make suggestions!

• TIP #3) Ask them how many sessions they typically book each week. This is going to give you an idea of their workload. If your photographer limits their sessions to 1-3 or so per week, you know you've got their full attention! However, if they are cranking out 10 or more - well, it might mean you get lost in the shuffle. (Some photographers maintain both personal attention and a moderate volume by outsource their editing.)

• TIP #2) Be sure to ask, "What extras might I need to pay for?" Do they provide any beauty edits (removing acne, smoothing out crows feet, etc)? What about things like head-swaps? Some photographers do this as part of their service and others charge extra for this service. Regardless, a photographer should be totally upfront about all rexpected extra charges. (Sometimes there are truly unexpected extras a client might want - changing the color of a shirt, for example.)

• AND the number ONE TIP for finding a good photographer for you...  Find a photographer that you "CLICK" with! You're looking for welcoming, easy-going, organized, professional. Having someone you enjoy working with will make ALL the difference in your experience - even if they are a little more expensive!