Choosing your photographer


A family photo shoot is so much more than the capture and delivery of photos. In the hands of the right photographer, it can be an experience that will bring you closer to your loved ones.


The most common feedback I receive from clients is that they loved the experience as much as their resulting photos — and that the time spent together will be cherished by everyone.



Consider these three qualities when selecting your photographer:



Rapport


A heart-centered photographer will put enormous effort into getting to know your family and building a relationship from the moment you book your shoot.

During my family photo shoots, I build rapport with your children from the moment I meet you, introducing myself and getting them involved the shoot. I direct your family with intention and confidence, which immediately puts you at ease. You can get a feel for my personality by visiting my 'About' page. But the failsafe way of finding out how well I build rapport is to read the reviews of my clients.



Sensitivity


Just as important as rapport, is a photographer that understands the intricacies of a sensitive shoot and adjusts the energy levels accordingly.

I want your family to feel safe in front of my camera, and to do this, I gracefully foster intimate moments of connection, while keeping the shoot positive and uplifting.



Expertise


No doubt it's taken you a fair amount of time and effort to bring everyone together, so the last thing you want are blurry, badly composed, or underexposed images. Select an experienced photographer with technical acumen, who can concentrate on your family connections instead of constantly checking the back of their camera, adjusting settings or taking way too long to compose the shot.

“There is nothing more important than the choosing a photographer that will skillfully and delicately guide you through the entire experience from preparation, to delivery of your precious memories. A photo shoot has the potential to be a joyful and memorable experience for every family member — both young and old.”

What is the best timing?


When a family member has a long-term illness, your session should be based around when and where they look and feel their best. Comfort is the priority. If they are receiving regular treatment, then a photo shoot could be scheduled in between the sessions. In the case of terminal illness, families have approached me in advance of hospice or palliative care to schedule a photo shoot right after their loved one ceases treatment. I always do my best to accommodate your family, offering sessions from Saturday through to Thursday, with flexibility of rescheduling, where required.


If you family is travelling to be together, the logistics can get tricky. Ideally, book your photo shoot a few days after your family arrives, allowing time for travel delays, travel fatigue/jet lag and for each family to settle in and catch up.


Outdoor shoots are scheduled an hour or two before sunset, depending on the duration of your shoot. This is when the sun is low on the horizon and light is soft, golden and most flattering.

Choose a suitable location


For convenience and comfort, you may prefer to have the photo shoot at your own home or property. As part of our pre-planning, I will visit your home or view it via a Facetime call around the same time your photo shoot is scheduled. We check access, direction of sun and available backdrops. If your yard is not suitable or your loved one feels well enough to travel a short distance, I have a list of public and private locations that provide:

  • a drop off point not far from the photo shoot location
  • flat and even terrain suitable for a mobility assistance device (wheelchair, walker, crutches, walking stick)
  • privacy from general public
  • adequate shade from sun or shelter from cold wind.


I can show you photo galleries of family shoots captured at each location, so you can get a feel for what your photos might look like.

Maximise your time together


It's a good idea to talk openly with your loved one who is unwell and tell them why the photo shoot is important to you and your family. A photo shoot can feel overwhelming if they feel like the focus is all on them. In reality though, it is the children and pets that quickly claim the spotlight!


During our planning phase, I learn your family's names and relationships, important connections and sought after shots. There is nothing to discuss on the day as it's all prepped behind the scenes, so your job is just to relax and enjoy each other's company. I use entertaining prompts and games that the whole family can get involved in, which is the perfect way to make fun of each other and have a laugh.


I encourage you to bring along chairs, a picnic and even a bit of bubbly to enjoy while you're not being photographed. You may like to share gifts or old photos. One family brought their guitar and sang a few family favourites. There are no rules — it's your choice.

“As your family starts to relax into the afternoon, I'm constantly tuned into magical moments and natural connections that are happening from a distance. You'll be surprised at what I have captured when you see your photos.”

How to make a booking


If you are ready to book a family photo shoot or would like to chat with me about the options, please contact me by phone or SMS at 0421 310 580 or admin@joannakate.com.au, or submit an online enquiry.


I feel truly humbled to capture such intimate and sensitive family memories. I put my heart into your sessions, knowing that inevitably, my imagery will be a source of great comfort to you and your loved ones — and a connection to the past for generations to come.