Breaking Down the Cost of an Apple Valley Creative Family Photographer: What You’re Really Paying For
Are you searching the interwebs for the perfect Apple Valley family creative photographer and noticed that the prices vary significantly?
I get it, it’s crazy confusing out there.
One person charges $200, while another charges $2000.
What’s the difference, though? And, is one really that much better than the other?
Let’s talk about it!
Let’s take a walk down memory lane first:
I grew up disliking photography– my dad was a landscape photographer and he never really took photos of people, let alone little ole me. Tons of rocks, mountains, rivers, and caves, though. So, I just never thought photos were an important thing to have in life.
In fact, when I got married, I found the cheapest wedding photographer on Craigslist, paid $600, and didn’t give it any more thought. Well, she didn’t know how to back up my photos, and she lost them. So, I don’t have a single wedding photo. Zero!
You really do get what you pay for.
I’ve since changed my mind about photography, and I am a huge advocate for having printed photos.
“Photography for walls, not hard drives!”
A great Family Photographer doesn’t just show up and take pictures.
Let’s be honest. Anyone can press a button on manual mode.
But professional photographers:
Know how to work with light, both natural and artificial
Capture the best expressions
Guide you so you feel relaxed and comfortable
Add their own creativity so your images are unique
And, print your photos for you!
This takes training, education, and lots of experience!
A good photographer will get your toddler to warm up, your partner to actually enjoy the session (let’s be honest, they’d rather be at home), and how to pose you. They want you to feel natural and look like yourself. None of the “everyone say cheese!” stuff.
And, no boring photos! – my personal motto.
Beautiful soon-to-be-mama.
Higher photography prices usually mean less work for you.
Let’s face it— Most moms need help…
Choosing the location
Planning outfits
Coming up with flattering and fun poses
Wiping crumbs from Junior’s face
Yes, the right photographer knows this and will guide you through every step! Except for the crumbs, that’s on you, mama.
You won’t have to worry about the “best time of day” for photos or where to go. What to wear? I got you!
And, they’ve even thought ahead about lighting, weather, and how to avoid the busy crowds.
I had one engagement session we had to push back for a month because the blooms weren’t blooming.
When you invest a little more, you’re often getting the one-of-a-kind, done-for-you experience that takes the stress off you and leaves you feeling taken care of. Ahhhh, sweet sigh of relief.
As a busy mom of four, I know that is huge! And, rare!
I have kids, and each of them has their own unique personality, not to mention my husband, who is his own person as well. I know families all have unique dynamics and come with their own challenges.
As your photographer, I don’t set an amount of time to take photos. I will be there from the start and take any necessary photos.
Sometimes I can capture a beautiful family in as little as 30 minutes, and other times, we can spend 2+ hours together. I use my judgment for each individual and family session. I notice when kids are done, or if they are happy to keep going.
I don’t ever want a client to feel rushed— I aim for a relaxing, yet fun experience. Every. Single. Time.
The price includes more than just a one-hour photo session and editing.
It covers professional gear, software, education, studio equipment, and client tools.
We don’t even need to get into taxes and business expenses, just like you wouldn’t expect your hairstylist or mechanic to break theirs down. Those are all part of running a legit business, too.
This is a 3-series of images printed for a girl’s bedroom.
A great photographer knows how to edit AND print your photos!
Oh, honey, the photos you receive will live on your walls (or in an album) for years!! They should look just as gorgeous in 20 years as they do today.
DIGITAL FADES. LEGACY LIVES IN PRINT.
Experienced photographers know how to edit their images in a way that’s clean, classic, and true-to-life (not trendy or overdone).
A good Apple Valley Family Photographer will also help you decide what to do with your images! And where to hang wall art.
What do you want/need? They’ll help you choose between…
A large statement piece over the couch
If you move around a lot, an album would be a better choice
Printing a series of each child to display on their bedroom wall
Without that help, it’s easy for your images to fade away on a screen and never make it onto your walls.
I do not allow this with my clients. Ever. I print your images for you.
Don’t let your images die a digital death.
(Does anyone else have a massive “to-do” list that includes “print family photos” that never gets done?)
I usually take 3-4 weeks from the portrait session to print to delivery.
Here’s a little story:
I was at a local chamber meeting and met a new (to me) person. She was hosting a milestone birthday party for her mother-in-law and needed large images printed. I had a very short timeframe to get this done.
She sent me the files from her daughter’s wedding. I sent it to my professional print lab and had the 40” prints in my hands 2 days before the event.
That’s some fast turnaround time!
If you ever need something from a photographer, like printing out images, it doesn’t hurt to ask. I have a whole blog post on doing just that. You can read it here.
Snuggles and kisses from mama are the best.
How Much does Creative Family Photography Cost in Apple Valley?
Pricing all depends on the service and experience of the photographer, what's included, and your location choice—local or a bit of a drive.
How far are they willing to go for you?
Will they come to your home, or travel to a distant location?
Do they have a studio?
Some have a client closet with props and clothing
Do you want a full-service boutique photography experience? Or, are you happy with showing up to the local park and getting an online gallery only?
In and around Apple Valley, you can find someone who charges $200 or $2000 for a family session. They usually include digital images only (which means you are in charge of printing your photos).
I’m EXTREMELY passionate about printing your images. But there’s a photographer for everyone.
So… is it worth it?
Here’s the truth: You can absolutely get decent photos for low prices. You really can!
But when you invest in a high-end photographer, you’re investing in your own time and their experience.
You get your time back knowing the photographer will handle everything. Huge Yaaay, right?
You experience the feeling of being taken care of, your kids feel seen and heard, and you walk away with images that are cherished for life! Wheeee!!
But, don’t just take my word for it ;)
Hi! It’s me ;)
Here’s what a few of my clients had to say about their investment:
“OMG Annette!! They came out perfectly! Thank you so so much! Lucy absolutely loves them al!!”
“I’m overwhelmed. They’re so amazing!!!!! OMG, the photos are gorgeous! This is going to be my new profile picture!”
“Thank you, definitely knocked it out of the park!”
Want to see what that kind of experience looks like?
How does the experience go? Click here for a timeline rundown.
Thanks for reading Breaking Down the Cost of an Apple Valley Creative Family Photographer: What You’re Really Paying For, I hope you walk away with a new look at pricing and how every photographer is different. But, there’s someone for everyone!
Do you want to join the rebellion? Book your legacy session today.
Cheers,
Annette
