For most occasions, our own point and shoot camera is sufficient to record an event. Yet there are special occasions, like family reunions, when you will probably want to pay a professional to be sure it is done right. Of course, it will cost more than taking it yourself and having your own pictures enlarged. But the enduring quality of a good portrait will be worth it. After all, you are investing in the future by recording a memory of the past. Therefore, selecting the right portrait photographer will be important. Consider these eight principles in making a wise choice.

1) Location - Is the studio within a reasonable distance from your home? You won’t want to drive hours to get the picture made, then return to get it. Then too, does it have sufficient parking and is it accessible so that you don’t have to wait long in traffic to get there?

2) Facility - Is the building large enough to photograph the group you have? One family rose early on a Saturday morning and drove thirty minutes for a promised appointment. When they arrived, they found out the facility was too small to get everyone into the picture. Be sure the studio is established, not just a store front, and prepared to photograph the group you have.

3) Punctuality - Are they on time for the appointment you made with them? Have they allowed enough time to get the picture right? Are the promised results available when they promised? Check with others who have used their services to see if they are punctual.

4) Personality - Is the receptionist and/or photographer friendly? Do they treat you as a valued customer? Do the employees look sharp? Are the workers personable? Are they patient and understanding with small children and babies? What about accommodating special needs people? Often taking a family portrait means the whole family is under stress to get cleaned up and dressed and to the studio on time. The result might be that smaller children refuse to smile. A good photographer will be able, most of the time, to overcome these problems.

5) Skill - Is the lighting shadow free? This is often the one area amateurs are least able to imitate. Also, a skilled photographer should be able to arrange the group so it is balanced, key people are highlighted, and everyone can be seen. They should be able to quickly arrange the group to make an attractive photograph.

6) Choice - You should have plenty of pictures to choose from. In a large group there is always a problem with someone closing their eyes or not smiling. If they make recommendations, are they in your interest or theirs? Do they present the options without putting you under pressure to spend more than you planned to?

7) Integrity - Do they keep their promises? For example, if they promised one free picture if you posed for them, do they keep that promise? Are the pictures ready on the promised date? If you know someone who used them before, ask if their overall experience was good or bad?

8) Price - Obviously, professional photography will be more expensive than taking the pictures yourself. After all, they must pay for quality cameras, staff, and facilities. Just be sure that their price is competitive. If you call several firms and compare prices, you will at least be sure you are not cheated.

Speaking from experience, it can be stressful getting a good family portrait, especially if you have small children. By following these principles in selecting a photographer, you can turn it into a good experience and an investment in memories worth keeping.

Del Haven Studio is the location of a proven Virginia Beach Portrait Photographer who is experienced in expertly capturing professional protraits. Click the links to visit the site today and see slideshows of her work as a Virginia Beach Photographer, in corporate settings, and beautiful weddings.