If there’s one thing that’s grossly underrated at parties, it’s the importance of a good photographer. We spend so much time planning a great birthday party for our kids, but without a professional to capture it all we’re usually left with mediocre phone photos that don’t do our hard work justice.
Here are our picks for family-friendly photographers. These guys specialize in portraits, pregnancy photoshoots, and event photography.
For more kids’ birthday party recommendations, search jingkids tag #BigBeijingBirthdayPartyList for more recommendations on venues, ideas, and entertainers.
Photographer: Dave Hanssen
Company: Dave’s Studio
How would you describe your style?
“I’d say my studio’s style is more on the natural side for family portraits, more relaxed. However, it really depends on our clients. We like to have an open dialogue with our clients to ensure that they get the images that fit their style the best.”
What makes a great family photo?
“In my opinion, a great family photo is one that feels natural. It doesn’t have to be perfect in every aspect, it doesn’t need to have everyone smiling and looking into the lens. Some of my most favorite family photos are caught when the family is relaxed, joking and playing with each other.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Don’t stress, it’s just a photo. My studio is here to help you pick out a wardrobe that goes well with your family, and a shooting location that fits your style. We also do our best to lower the stress level and keep the mode relaxed.”
Contact:
Photographer: Desanka Popovic
Company: The Purest Memories
How would you describe your style?
“Pureness and warmth. That is what people should feel when they get their albums.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Passion. An eye for a detail, connection with clients, patience, calm and peaceful atmosphere, and at the end the way of editing it.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Be natural, just to do whatever you do when people are not around. Kiss, hug, speak, love each other. Don’t think about what you’re going to look like, because natural is the most beautiful.”
Contact:
WeChat: Desa991
Phone: 156 0055 0215
Instagram: the_purest_memories
Photographer: Jiehao Chen
Company: Jiehao Photography
How would you describe your style?
“Candid.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Having a great time together on a shoot.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“1. Patience is limited for most young creatures. Rather than long drives to your ideal location, ask your photographer for nice, hidden spots in town or close to your home. We have everything from ancient to modern, urban to nature. Make sure the most cooperative hours are used on photo-taking, not commute.
“2. Less is more. Color story … shouldn’t be too complicated and taking away from you, the subject.
“3. Be spontaneous…we’ll go along and make it fun.”
Contact:
WeChat: 1527430003
Website: www.jiehaophotography.com
Photographer: Aaron Berkovich
How would you describe your style?
“My style is naturally capturing moments as they happen and finding the angles that really tell the stories of the subjects.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Authenticity. It’s capturing the energy and excitement that really shows the personality of the subject, coupled with a sense of place. I focus on environmental or location-based family photo sessions, to show not only these connections but to allow families to share their favorite places and memories in Beijing with loved ones around the world.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Be yourselves, dress comfortably, and have fun.”
Contact:
WeChat: 131 2015 9494
Email: aaron@peking.studio
Photographer: Stacy Dudnyk
Company: Stacy Dudnyk Photography
How would you describe your style?
“I am a lifestyle photographer. I’m trying to tell each family’s unique story in the most natural, true way. I come to people’s homes and capture their lives, their routines, and their relationships. I work with natural light only, which is sometimes challenging but the outcome is always worth it.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Just be yourself – don’t pose – and relax. Trust your photographer.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Think about it like a great opportunity to spend some quality time with your loved ones. Also, don’t overthink about the outfits or props. At the end of the day, you and your emotions are [the]things that matter, not the surrounding.”
Contact:
Scan the QR code on the poster above
Photographer: Varvara Kotsebuk
Company: Varya Kotsebuk Photography
How would you describe your style?
“Natural/candid.”
What makes a great family photo?
“Choose a spot that has some significance to the family because it will make the photo more meaningful. As an added bonus, it will help keep young children and pets comfortable by shooting in a location they’re familiar with.”
What tips do you have for families preparing for their shoot?
“Many people consider their pets to be part of the family, and pet portraits are a growing trend, so why not include the furry friends in the family photo? Let the animals roam and interact with the family while you shoot – it could lead to some great candid moments.”
Contact: 
Images: Desanka Popovic, Jiehao Chen, Dave Hanssen, Aaron Berkovich, Stacy Dudnyk, Varvara Kotsebuk
