Why You Should Hire a Professional Photographer

A family stands, smiling in a park at sunset - Mercer County, New Jersey, Jennifer Fulton Photography

Central New Jersey Family Photographer

Hi all, as the spring season is about to begin (yay!), I thought I would open with some of my thoughts on why it’s important to hire a professional photographer to capture your family’s portraits. 

They’ll educate you ahead of time

Have you ever tried to take a family portrait yourself? It’s not easy. Even if you know your way around a camera and set up a tripod and self timer, it’s nearly impossible to get everyone looking at the camera, smiling, in focus, with their eyes open. Chances are everyone will look stiff. That’s where a professional makes all the difference. A pro will tell you what to expect and make you comfortable before the session even starts so your portraits will look natural and relaxed. I send every one of my clients a Welcome Guide that is full of information to make your family portraits an easy experience. 

Two children sit on a bunch at sunset - Taken in Mercer County, New Jersey by Jennifer Fulton Photography

They have the best equipment

A professional photographer is going to have a camera body and lens that they know inside and out. Understanding how to manipulate the many settings is what helps get beautiful sun flares and that creamy dreamy bokeh (blur) that everyone loves.

They will help you look your best

Professional photographers will help style their clients so they look cohesive and comfortable in their photos. Educated clothing choices can elevate a good family photo and make it great. I have a Clothing Guide that I send every client, and I am always available for additional advice so everyone looks and feels their best!  

A young girl stands in front of a pond at sunset - taken in Mercer County, NJ by Jennifer Fulton Photography

They know the best locations

When you hire a local photographer, they know all the best locations inside and out. Knowing the lighting at different times of day and the best spots in each location makes for gorgeous portraits and an easy experience. I have a guide with my favorite locations including photos and additional information so my clients can easily choose the best place for their family portraits. 

They’re posing experts

Getting those emotion-filled candids and traditional family portraits takes skill and experience. An expertly placed prompt or game can avert a toddler tantrum and create a magical photo that just wouldn’t happen with someone saying “smile.” 

A family stands in front a pond at sunset - taken in Mercer County, NJ by Jennifer Fulton Photography

They know the ins and outs of editing

Editing is where the magic happens! We get as much correct in camera as possible, but the post production is where professionals make colors pop, sunshine even brighter, and correct the occasional blemish. 

They provide high-quality prints and files

Professional labs use high-quality inks and papers that provide accurate colors and longevity for each print. I have done comparisons of the various pharmacy and big box store photo labs, and each one looked completely different! When I deliver photos to my clients, I use an online gallery that is linked to a professional lab so you can easily order prints that get delivered straight to your door. You made the effort to show up and have your photo session, now hang your beautiful prints on your wall so you can enjoy them for years to come!

A father holds his baby son in a natural lit field - taken in Mercer County, NJ by Jennifer Fulton Photography

They’ll provide a stress-free experience

Leaving your family portraits to a professional will take the stress out of the experience. I strive to make sure my clients are educated ahead of time about what to expect and how to dress so when the day of the session arrives, all you have to do is show up! Feeling relaxed and prepared makes for better photos. 

Summary

  • They’ll tell you what to expect

  • They have professional equipment and the knowledge to use it

  • They will help style you so you look your best

  • They know all the best locations

  • They have the experience to use poses and prompts so you look and feel comfortable

  • They know how to expertly edit to take a good picture and make it a work of art

  • They have access to professional labs for the highest quality prints 

  • They make the experience fun and low stress

A family sits on a bench in a park at sunset - taken in Mercer County, NJ by Jennifer Fulton Photography

Ready to book?

Are you looking to hire a professional photographer for a family, couple’s, maternity, or newborn session in Central New Jersey or Bucks County, PA? Take a look at my portfolio and contact me when you are ready! Don’t forget to follow me on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest to see what I’ve been up to lately.

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