You're Paying How Much for Family Photos?
If you're planning to pay more than $400 for your family of 6's photos, do not do it!
It's old news saying that Utah is an oversaturated market for photographers, but it's telling you again because I don't want you overpaying for family photos. Getting family photos done takes a lot of work, from finding a date that works for multiple people, coordinating outfits, and doing your best to dodge the early October snow storms that we seem to keep getting more of.
Since I want you to get the most out of your family photos, here are my best tips for making sure you're paying the right price for your next family photos.
Cost Breakdown of Family Photo Pricing
Taking the photos is the midpoint of the family photo process for your photographer. Before a shoot, your photographer picks a location that feels perfect for your family, chooses a time where the lighting will work in your favor, and sources inspiration for posing and lighting.
After that, the photographer takes your family photos. Between driving there and back, testing the lighting, and taking the photos, it's about 3 hours in time.
But the real bulk of time is spent culling, importing, editing, and exporting the photos. Editing time differs from photographer to photographer, but I'd say on average editing an average sized family's photos takes about 10 hours. Just the editing, not the rest. Editing is where the vision comes to life and the story is being told, so it's not something that should be rushed.
Here's What You Should Pay for Family Photos
Remember, I'm only speaking on behalf of my experience and opinion as a portrait photographer in southern Utah. Even though my family photo pricing guide is pretty balanced, keep in mind that cost of living and inflation likely makes pricing look different in other states, so remember I'm just talking about Utah.
- 1-6 people: $200
- 7-10 people: $250
- 11-15 people: $325
- 16-19 people: $450
- 20-24 people: $525
- 25+ people: $600+
This is a range that I think is fairly priced. Even as a photographer who has spent years improving her trade, I think it's unnecessary when photographers charge an outrageous amount for photos. I think if photographers really love to create and document special moments in time for people, their pricing should reflect that. Do I think that every photographer should charge the exact same amount? No, but I think every photographer needs to be careful that they don't outprice themselves. I mean we're all just trying to get the best deal possible, right?
Don't Forget Why
The stress and anticipation of family photos can feel overwhelming, but don't let the stress make you lose sight of why you wanted new family photos in the first place. Your people are only a certain age for so long, and I promise you it will be all be worth it when you get to look back at your beautiful family photos that you forgot until now you almost canceled.
If you have any questions or ideas, message me on my socials. I'm excited to hear from you so that we can create together.
