Hi, New Family Photographer! I am so glad you are here! My name is Ashley Ammons, and I am a family photographer and educator! I have always had a passion for educating, children, and photography!
My favorite part of my job is getting to help other photographers who are looking to take their business to the next level. Sound like you? Make sure to keep reading for my TOP 5 FAVORITE TIPS!
THE JACKPOT FOR A NEW FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER
#1: INVEST IN EDUCATION
Can you do it on your own? Sure! In fact, Youtube is a great source for learning new content. I even have a YouTube channel that I am constantly trying to update with new material! If you are interested, you can check it out HERE.
Although I love a good DIY, the fastest and best way to be the best family photographer you can be is always finding an educator you connect with and investing in their courses. Even as a professional family photographer and educator, I invest in courses that will help me get to that next level!
If I can tell you anything, let it be to never underestimate the power of learning from someone who can get you to the next level!
#2: CAMERA AND GEAR
You don’t need a fancy $3000 camera.
I feel like this is one that is going to ruffle some feathers (sorry, not sorry), but I believe that you can take gorgeous images using a beginner crop frame camera.
I mean, that’s how I started! Let it be known, the camera doesn’t make a great photo! It’s the photographer and how they understand light and composition.
#3: SHOOT IN MANUAL + RAW
You are a lot smarter than your camera, I promise!
When you put your camera in an automatic you are allowing your camera to make all the decisions. PRO TIP: THOSE DECISIONS ARE USUALLY ALWAYS WRONG.
Learn how to use Aperture, ISO, and Shutter Speed and how they work together to create a gorgeous, in-camera, shot.
If you want a quick video on how these all work, check out my video HERE.
#4: FREE MODEL CALLS
Free Model Calls are your best friend when your start!
My rule of thumb is to take on five model calls when you first start.
Let them know the colors you want them to wear, where you want to shoot, and what time of day you would like to shoot! This way you have images for your portfolio and social media to get you started!
It’s important to make sure they are wearing the right colors that fit the editing vibe you are wanting.
For example, I am a light and bright photographer. Meaning, I would never suggest someone wearing dark colors! Here are some examples of colors I love to work with: TIPS FOR CHOOSING YOUR FAMILY PORTRAIT OUTFITS
#5: MAKING MISTAKES IS NORMAL
Know it’s okay to make mistakes.
I still make them! I use to get really down on myself when things didn’t go perfectly at a session. Now I take it as a learning experience to better myself.
YOU WILL MAKE MISTAKES – it’s how you grow from it after.
Make sure you have fun while learning and take your camera everywhere you go to practice.
CHECK OUT THESE RESOURCES FOR FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHERS:
[…] Now, it’s time to grow your family photography business into a profitable, flourishing operation! From building trust with your clients to finding your editing style, there are lots of ways to set your biz up for success. (If you’re just starting out, here are 5 […]