Family photography is more than just posed portraits—it’s a way to capture everyday life and the small, beautiful moments that often go unnoticed. In many families, moms are the ones behind the camera, snapping pictures of everyone else. That means they’re rarely in the photos themselves! Scheduling a professional family photoshoot ensures that everyone gets to be in the frame and cherish those moments for years to come.

If you’ve ever wondered about family session photography cost, read on. Based on hundreds of family photography sessions in Chicago, we’ll discuss what to expect from family photoshoot pricing, how different factors influence family portrait photographer rates, and why investing in professional photography doesn’t have to break the bank.

Family Photography Pricing – What to Expect

When looking at family photography packages, you’ll often see a range of price points. Some photographers charge a flat fee, while others offer tiered packages that include add-ons like prints or albums. As a family photographer, I aim to stay in the middle—ensuring my services remain accessible to more people without sacrificing quality.

For many photographers (myself included), professional family photographer fees typically account for the time spent planning your shoot, the actual photography session, and the editing process afterward. It’s a deeply creative service, and that’s what makes the investment in family photography worthwhile.

Factors That Affect Family Photography Cost

Several factors affect family photography pricing:

1. Location: Studio vs. outdoor family photoshoot cost can vary. A studio session might be more controlled and often includes studio rental fees, whereas an outdoor session may require additional travel or special permits.
2. Session Length: Longer shoots often mean a higher price, as the photographer needs to dedicate more time to both shooting and editing.
3. Number of Edited Images: Some packages include a set number of digital files, while others offer unlimited images or different types of prints.
4. Photographer’s Experience: A well-established family portrait photographer may charge more due to their expertise and reputation.
5. Special Requests: If you want props, multiple outfit changes, or custom editing, you might see an increase in your final cost.

Average Price of Family Session Photography

When it comes to the average cost of family photography, you can typically expect prices ranging anywhere from $300 to $1,000 or more, depending on the photographer and location. In my case, I’ve priced my family and newborn sessions between $500 and $750. This range reflects a sweet spot—providing quality, professional portraits without becoming inaccessible.

What’s Included in a Family Photography Package?

In general, family photography packages cover:

• Consultation and planning (location, outfits, shot list)
• The photoshoot itself (usually one to two hours)
• Selection and editing of images
• A specific number of high-resolution digital images
• Printing rights or a set of prints (depending on your package)

Some photographers also offer albums, wall art, or online galleries. Be sure to ask what’s included so you know exactly what you’re paying for.

Budget-Friendly vs. High-End Family Photography – What’s the Difference?

• Budget-Friendly: Offers a lower family photoshoot pricing point, but may have limited shooting time, fewer edited images, or less customization not to mention the limited experience the photographer has. 
• High-End: Often includes a luxury experience with advanced retouching, in-depth planning, premium prints, and more.

My goal is to remain in that comfortable middle ground. I’m not an inexpensive photographer, but I strive to make sure my art is still within reach for most families who want beautiful, professional photos.

Conclusion

Family photography celebrates the everyday moments that make your family unique. By investing in a professional shoot, you ensure that everyone—from mom to the littlest members—gets to be in the spotlight. And while family session photography cost can vary, there are options to suit different budgets. My own family photography packages range from $500 to $750, offering a blend of quality and affordability.

As a professional photographer in Chicago I believe every family deserves to have their special bond captured and preserved for generations. If you’re ready to schedule a session or have questions about family portrait photographer rates, feel free to reach out. Together, we’ll create images that tell your family’s story—images you’ll treasure for a lifetime.