Family photography is a wonderful way to capture the special moments and memories of your family. Investing in professional family photography is an investment in preserving and celebrating your family's memories. It allows you to have high-quality, artistic, and meaningful images that capture the essence of your family and create a lasting legacy..

But, how much should you spend on Professional Family Photography? The cost of family photography in Perth can vary widely, depending on a number of factors. Price can start from $50 on Gumtree to as much as over $2500 per session. Why the discrepancy? What impacts the large jump in pricing?

This article is aimed to answer the most frequently asked questions about family photography prices in Perth:

• the average family photography prices in Perth
• what determines the discrepancy in photography prices
• if you are paying too much or two little for photography services
• what YOU value in your photographer

First, let's look at average family photography prices in Perth.

AVERAGE FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY PRICES IN PERTH

You probably guessed it - there is not an exact "average" for a family photographer. A LOT goes into pricing of any photography package or service. What different photographers charge are based on a number of factors.

The first thing you need to do is determine what you value most when it comes to photographs.

• Do you want a few basic pictures that capture your family together?
• Do you want tiny detail and connection documented?
• What is your style?
• Do you want family portraits that are unique, artistic and have a "wow" factor?
• Do you want an expert who is experienced in working with children of all ages?
• Do you value a great experience for your family as well as beautiful photography?
• Do you want your photographer to help you figure out your wardrobe?
• Do you want your photographer to design albums and wall art so you don't need to do it yourself?
• Do you want professional quality heirloom albums and wall art so you can be certain they will last for generations?
• Do you want your photographer to guide you through the entire process?
• Do you want your photographer to take care all of the little details so you don't have to?
• Do you want a photographer with a distinctive Signature Style that aligns with your vision?
• Do you want to feel something after your photography experience?

I could probably continue on. Think about what is most important to you? Once you have determined what it is that you value most, it is then that we can start looking at few different average ranges for family photography based on what you value.

BEGINNER

Price range : $50 - $300

• Beginner photographers who are not confident in producing consistent work will usually (including myself) begin in this range.
• They are most likely still learning different aspects of portrait photography such as lighting, angles, how to use their camera properly, how to work with small children etc
• They may easily get flustered or stressed if the session does not go as planned..such as kids not cooperating. This can easily create a tense or awkward moments during the session.
• They may be using sub par photography equipment such as entry level cameras.
• They likely do not have much to provide you when it comes to preparation for your session.
• They may still be learning the most flattering poses for families.
• They likely don't have a consistent style.
• They likely do not offer any print products.
• They may be perfect of anyone who just wants a few pictures with the family all together and in a quick time frame such as pictures for Christmas cards.

AMATEUR

Price Range : $300 - $800

• These are likely photographers who have been in business for 1-3 years, so although they are more experience than a beginner, they are still learning a lot.
• Posing may not appear natural and organic yet.
• They are likely still developing skills working with a toddlers & small children.
• They likely provide minimal guidance on how to prepare you for the session.
• They are still likely working on improving their skills on posing, lighting, working with children and making everyone feel comfortable during the session.
• They likely do not provide products.
• As they are early on in their photography journey, they are most likely photographing many different genres such as weddings, events, headshots, products etc.
• Maybe perfect if you just want digital files and affordable pricing is your main concern.

MID TIER PROFESSIONAL

Price Range : $800 - $1500

• They likely have an establish style.
• They may work full time as a photographer but are possibly over worked.
• They need to take on a large number of clients to make a worthwhile income so may not be able to provide you with a personalised service.
• You will probably talk or meet them for the first time at your photo session which can be nerve wrecking for you as well as the photographer.
• They are likely to provide very little consultation on how to prepare for your session.
• They likely do not provide products.

LUXURY / BOUTIQUE / FULL SERVICE

starting at $1500

• They have ample photography and business experience.
• They likely specialise in working with children & families.
• They have a sought after and distinctive Signature style
• They will likely want to take the burden off all the small details from you and make the process easy and enjoyable.
• They are likely to provide a high touch experience (i.e. planning consultation, detailed guides, art reveal etc).
• They will likely offer you in person pre-shoot consultation to establish a personal connection. This connection can lead to a more relaxed and comfortable atmosphere during the photoshoot, resulting in more authentic and natural images.
• They are likely to provide high quality finished products (i.e albums, wall art) that will last for generations.
• They likely offer wardrobe or wardrobe consultation.
• They likely run their business full time.
• They likely take on limited clients each month so they can provide a more personalised service to each client.
• They deliver high quality consistent results.
• They are likely highly experienced in photography skills such as dreamy lighting, flattering posing, using the best angles for different body types, knowledge of what hair/ makeup and wardrobe looks great in pictures, working with children of all ages, making all members of the family feel comfortable during the session and making the session fun!

SO WHAT IS THE AVERAGE PRICE FOR PERTH FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHY?

Now that you have seen that a photographer can average between $50 & $2500+ per session, the most important thing is for you to work out what you value most in a photographer. If you value a photographer who can guide you through the whole experience, take care of every detail, provide you with customised products and create breathtaking portraits, they are likely to run in a luxury, custom or boutique category. By investing in their expertise, you can have family photos that are distinctive, artistic, and evoke emotions.

If price is your main concern, a beginner or amateur photographer maybe your best bet.

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE A PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHER?

Everyone wants their photographer to be 'professional', but many people do not really understand what that entails. Professional really is another word for expertise. When you hire a professional photographer, you can expect them to be an expert in the following areas:

• Business Skills - this one may not appear obvious but having a photographer with strong business skills delivers consistent results. Professional photographers have a well-organised workflow and understand the importance of professionalism in running their photography business.
• Actual Photography Skills - Does your photographer understand light completely? Will they help with location and timing to produce the best results for you? Professional family photographers understand how to engage and interact with clients to capture genuine emotions and expressions. Their experience enables them to anticipate and capture special moments that reflect the unique personality and connections within a family.
• Connection and relationships - Does your photographer get to know your family before the session and plan out the session with you so you feel confident and comfortable infront of the camera? Do you want a photographer who is highly skilled at working with children? Professional photographers actively listen to their clients' needs and desires. They respond promptly to inquiries, provide clear information about their services and pricing, and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
• Attention to Detail - Professionals pay close attention to detail in every aspect of their work. This includes aspects such as posing, composition, lighting, and post-processing. They have a meticulous approach to editing and retouching images, ensuring that the final result is polished and of high quality.
• Artistic Vision and Creativity: Professional family photographers bring their artistic vision and creativity to their work. They have a keen eye for capturing unique and compelling moments, utilising composition, angles, and storytelling techniques to create visually stunning images. They strive to go beyond standard pictures, incorporating artistic elements and personal touches into their work.
• Location - Will your photographer scout out beautiful location in advance to accurately understand the light so they can solely focus on you and your family during the session? Does your photographer recommend location based on how you envision your final photos?
• Design Consultation - Does your photographer help with designing your album and artwork? Do they offer products that are of the highest quality and will last for generations? A professional family photographer will work closely with you to design heirloom family albums and create custom wall art that reflects your family's unique style and home decor. The photographer's expertise in visual storytelling, design, and understanding your preferences ensures that the final products are cherished pieces that will be enjoyed for generations.

SUMMARY

As you can see, there is not "one size fits all" average price for a Perth family photographer. You typically get what you pay for.

The most important thing is for you to determine what is it that you value the most in your photography experience and find the photographer that is best for YOU!

Sacred Seed Photography is a boutique family photographer specialising in family & children photography based out of Perth, Western Australia. Suri provides a custom client experience, from planning every detail of your session to assisting you in displaying your photographs in your home and creating family heirlooms for your children.

Suri photographs in Perth and surrounding areas such as Nedlands, Applecross, Maylands, Bedford, Como, Scarborough, Hillarys, Yokine and more. Suri is available to travel outside of Perth to create beautiful photographs for your family.