As a Dubai family photographer, I have been privileged enough to photograph numerous priceless moments for families from various backgrounds. The vibrant, multicultural tapestry of our city provides a unique backdrop for creating lasting memories. That said, finding the perfect family photographer in Dubai may seem intimidating. With so many options available, how do you ensure you're making the best choice for your family?

In this guide, I will walk you through the 12 essential qualities to look for when choosing a family photographer in Dubai. Whether you have just moved here or you are a long-time resident, these tips will help you find the perfect storyteller to capture your family's special story.

Why Hiring a Professional Family Photographer Is Worth It

Being family photographer in Dubai, I frequently hear people say, "We have phones now, why pay to have a Professional family photographer?" And while I get how convenient it had become, there is a difference between a casual phone pic and a perfectly crafted image. When you hire a professional family photographer, you are getting more than just someone with a nice camera and a few quick edits, you are getting someone who understands lighting, posing, timing, and storytelling.

Hiring a family photographer also means everyone gets to be in the moment, especially the parents who are often behind the camera. I take care of all the details, from guiding you through the session to delivering beautifully edited images you’ll be proud to display. My goal is to capture your family's natural connection in a way that feels authentic, timeless, and full of life.

12 Qualities Every Family Photographer Should Have 

1. Specialisation and Expertise

When you're searching for a family photographer in Dubai, it is important to find someone it specializes in family photography. While there are many photographers that can do family photography, selecting someone who only does this type of work could give you the comfort of their expertise to deal with the challenges that come along with working with kids and large families.

As a family photographer in Dubai, I have developed my experience with families of all sizes and all ages. I have developed techniques for working with toddlers who want to run off in every direction and teenagers who simply won't smile for you. Every family has its own set of challenges, but know you can find a family photographer who has developed techniques to ensure everyone feels comfortable and looks their best.

Find a photographer that has a portfolio showing a variety of family compositions that is similar to yours, such as a multi-generational family session if you have a larger family

2. Style and Aesthetic

Every family photographer in Dubai has their unique style and aesthetic. Some prefer a more traditional, posed approach, while others lean towards a candid, documentary style. As you browse portfolios, pay attention to the overall look and feel of the images.

At Mahvin Photography, we find a balance between natural and candid moments, to gently guided poses. Once we establish that balance, this allows me to capture authentic interactions while ensuring everyone looks their best.

Consider the following questions when evaluating a photographer's style:

• Do the images feel natural or overly posed?

• Is the editing style consistent across different sessions?

• Does the photographer's use of light and colour appeal to you?

• Can you envision your family in similar photos?

Remember, the style you choose should reflect your family's personality and the memories you want to preserve.

3. Studio Environment & Setup

If you're considering a family photographer in Dubai who works in a studio setting, it's important to look beyond just the location, and focus on the quality, comfort, and versatility of the studio environment.

At Mahvin Photography, I’ve designed my studio to be warm, welcoming, and family-friendly. From cosy seating areas and child-safe spaces to carefully curated props and backdrops, everything is in place to make your session as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

A professional studio allows for consistent lighting, controlled temperatures, and creative setups without the unpredictability of outdoor shoots. This is especially ideal for families with young children or babies.

When evaluating a studio-based family photographer, consider asking:

• Is the studio space clean, safe, and accessible?

• Are there props or themes suitable for different family sizes and occasions?

• How does the photographer tailor the studio setup to suit your family’s personality?

• Is there flexibility in backdrop styles, lighting, or wardrobe changes?

4. Comfort and Rapport

One of the most important qualities to look for in a family photographer in Dubai is their ability to make you and your children feel comfortable. A relaxed and enjoyable photoshoot experience translates into natural, beautiful images.

During my first consultation with clients, I try to get to know them and their children as best I can. I then can put together a session that is catered to their personalities and preferences. If you have shy children I might suggest playing games first, or avoiding the posing and let them play around.

Consider scheduling a brief meet-and-greet with potential photographers before booking. This can give you a sense of their personality and how well they interact with your family.

It is also very helpful to schedule a short meet-and-greet with potential photographers before hiring one. This gives you an opportunity to assess their personality, and see how they might interact with your family.

5. Viewing and Delivery Process

Understanding how and when you will receive photos and products is an important aspect in the choosing a family photographer in Dubai. Make sure to ask your photographer about their timeline for finishing the images and the format of the viewing, and when it occurs.

I provide online galleries featuring the best edited images from a session fully ready for my clients to view in as little as 2-3 weeks. Clients can easily share their gallery with family members and can also purchase any prints they might like directly from their session if they wish.

Some questions to ask about the viewing and delivery process:

• How long after the session will the photos be ready?

• Will there be an in-person viewing session or an online gallery?

• How many images can you expect to receive?

• What is the process for selecting and ordering prints or products?

6. Product Offerings

Another important question to ask the family photographer that you hire in Dubai is what products do they have. Some provide only digital files, while many family photographers will produce prints for you, either prints of various sizes, album set and/or canvas, framed photographs, and many more options.

I believe tangible memories are so much more valuable than digital images, and therefore, I have many high-quality products to offer my clients along with digital files. My clients can choose from custom-designed albums, gallery-wrapped canvases, and fine art prints to showcase their family photos.

Consider what you want to do with your family photos after the session. Do you want to print them on your own? Or do you prefer to have a professional take care of the print production and album design?

7. Budget Considerations

Don't get too focused on getting the cheapest solution. Family photography is an investment to document family history. An experienced and knowledgeable family photographer in Dubai will have so much more ability than the price tag.

When considering your budget, think about:

• The photographer's experience and expertise

• The quality of their equipment and final products

• The time and effort they invest in each session

• Any additional services or products included in their packages
  
  
  

At Mahvin Photography, I offer a range of packages to suit different budgets without compromising on quality. I believe in transparent pricing and ensuring my clients understand exactly what they're getting for their investment.

8. Reviews and Testimonials

One way to see a family photographer in Dubai's work is with a genuine review or testimonial by a previous client. Only consider photographers who have reviews and has a strong reputation.

You can find reviews on various platforms:

• Google Business listings

• Facebook pages

• Photography directories

• The photographer's own website

When you read reviews, I recommend you look for references to professionalism, how well he/she worked with their children and family, and also what they receive at delivery. If you prefer talking to previous clients directly, simply ask the photographer for references.

9. Communication and Responsiveness

Effective communication is key when working with a family photographer in Dubai. From the initial inquiry to the final product delivery, you want a photographer who is responsive, clear, and helpful.

As a family photographer, I prioritize open and timely communication with my clients. This includes:

• Promptly responding to inquiries and questions

• Providing clear information about packages and pricing

• Offering guidance on session preparation and outfit choices

• Keeping clients updated throughout the process

Pay attention to how quickly and thoroughly potential photographers respond to your initial inquiry. This can be a good indicator of their overall communication style.

10. Contract and Policies

A professional family photographer in Dubai should have a clear, comprehensive contract and well-defined policies in place. This protects both you and the photographer, ensuring everyone is on the same page regarding expectations and deliverables.

Key elements to look for in a photography contract include:

• Session details (date, time, location)

• Package inclusions and pricing

• Payment terms and schedule

• Cancellation and rescheduling policies

• Usage rights for the photos

• Delivery timeline for final products

At Mahvin Photography, I provide all clients with a detailed contract that outlines these elements and more. I'm always happy to explain any clauses or terms that may be unclear.

11. Flexibility and Adaptability

When working with families, especially those with young children, flexibility is crucial. Look for a family photographer in Dubai who can adapt to changing circumstances and unexpected situations.

As an experienced family photographer, I've learned to go with the flow and make the most of any situation. Whether it's a sudden change in weather, a cranky toddler, or a last-minute location switch, I'm always prepared with backup plans and strategies to ensure a successful photoshoot.

Consider asking potential photographers how they handle common challenges like:

• Uncooperative children

• Adverse weather conditions

• Last-minute schedule changes

• Large group dynamics

Their answers can give you insight into their problem-solving skills and ability to handle unexpected situations.

12. Trust Your Instincts

After considering all the practical aspects, don't forget to trust your instincts when choosing a family photographer in Dubai. You should feel a genuine connection with your photographer and be excited about working with them.

As you interact with potential photographers, ask yourself:

• Do I feel comfortable talking to this person?

• Can I envision them interacting well with my family?

• Do their values and approach align with mine?

• Am I excited about the prospect of our photoshoot?

Remember, the right family photographer will not only capture beautiful images but also help create a positive, memorable experience for your entire family.

Conclusion

Choosing the right family photographer in Dubai is an important decision that requires careful consideration. By keeping these 12 qualities in mind, you'll be well-equipped to find a professional who can capture your family's unique story and create lasting memories.

As a dedicated family photographer in Dubai, I'm passionate about helping families preserve their precious moments. If you're ready to capture your family's story, I'd love to hear from you. Let’s discuss your vision and how we can create beautiful, timeless images together.

Remember, the perfect family photographer is out there waiting to help you create memories that will last a lifetime. Take your time, do your research, and trust your instincts. Your future self will thank you for the beautiful family photos you'll cherish for years to come.