I am here to educate you on what types of photographers are out there. There is usually a lot of confusion surrounding this topic as I get calls asking if I do family reunions and all kinda of other events as well as smash cakes etc.
First, there is Event Photography. This typically covers weddings, showers, reunions, galas, baptisms, and possibly sports although sports photography has sort of ended up as its own genre. This genre of photography has a broad range of pricing anywhere from 150-250 per hour. It requires a lot of skill in other areas such as people and time management skills. This sort of thing can also be stressful at times so please be mindful that your event photographer does not just show up and click a button. There is a lot of organization going into their time with you.
Second, Portrait Photography. This category can and usually does break down into differing sub-genres. Portrait generally refers to a posed photo with ideal lighting where the subject is facing the camera. It is imporant to pay close attention to the placement of hands, neck, facial expressions, and even how the clothing is acting during this shoot. Portraits basically aim to capture the essence of that person, mannerisms, stories, personalities all in one shot. There will be a lot of retouching that goes into each portrait so that it looks wall hangingly flawless and “picture perfect.”
Subgenres of portraits may include modeling or acting headshots, fitness, newborns (kinda its own thing), children, branding, glamour, boudoir (also kinda its own thing), and family portraits. Within these subgenres, there are also individual styles and skill levels which pertains to the photographers’ preference and ability.
Example of a classic Portrait. This is also classified as a headshot.
Lifestyle Photography would be the next type. This covers family and branding genres but in an entirely different method. It differs from portraits because there is very little control on the part of the photographer of the subjects. The photographer may suggest loose prompts to give the family some creative thoughts on how to interract with eachother but no real direction on posing is given. If families prefer that unposed, candid look for their family photos, they may choose a lifestyle photographer. In these photos, most people will be interrating with one another instead of focusing on the camera. The point of this is to capture the warmth and connection of families as if no one else is there. Mostly, you will see this in an outdoor setting or either inside the family home. Much less retouching is spent on this style than any other style of photography. It allows for the photographer to create more of a story, taking a lot more photos, and spending much less time removing objects, blemishes, and skin perfecting. It’s raw, natural, and candid.
Example of Family Lifestyle Photography