Breaking Down the Cost of an Apple Valley Creative Family Photographer: What You’re Really Paying For
Have you been searching for the perfect Apple Valley creative family photographer and noticed that the prices vary significantly?
I get it, it’s pretty confusing.
One person is charging $200, while another is charging $2000.
What’s the difference, though? And, is one really that much better than the other?
Let’s talk about it!
I grew up disliking photography– my dad is a landscape photographer and he didn’t take photos of people, let alone little ole me. Only rocks, mountains, rivers, and caves. 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 further thought. Well, she didn’t back up my photos correctly, 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 then changed my mind about photography, and I am a huge advocate for having printed photos of yourself and loved ones.
A great Family Photographer doesn’t just show up and take pictures.
Anyone can press a button and use 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
This takes training, education, and experience!
A good photographer will know how to 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 and look like yourself. None of the “everyone say cheese!” stuff.
And, no boring photos! – my personal motto.
Beautiful maternity photo.
Higher photography prices usually mean less work for you.
Most moms need help…
Choosing the location
Planning outfits
Coming up with flattering and fun poses
Yes, the right photographer knows this and will guide you through every step!
You won’t have to worry about the best time of day for photos or where to go.
And, they’ve already thought about lighting, weather, and how to avoid the busy crowds.
When you invest more, you’re often getting a one-of-a-kind, done-for-you experience that takes the stress off you and leaves you feeling taken care of.
As a busy mom, I know that is huge! And, rare!
I have four kids, and each of them has their own unique personality, not to mention my husband is his own person as well. I know families 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 take beautiful family photos 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 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 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.
3 series of images printed in girls 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.
Experienced photographers know how to edit 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!
What do you want? 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 the 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.
(Does anyone else have a massive “to do” list that includes “print family photos” that never gets done?)
I usually take a few weeks from the portrait session to print to delivery.
Here’s a fun 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 wanted large images printed. I had one week 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! Not my normal time frame, but they weren’t my photos. I didn’t edit or do anything else to them, and I made this very clear.
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.
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 distance.
How far are they willing to go for you?
Will they come to your home, or travel to a far 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).
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!
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!
Cheers,
Annette
