Q & A

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Thumbtack.

Do you tip a photographer for family photos?

Tipping a photographer for family portraits is not standard etiquette. A great way to recognize a family photographer who goes above and beyond is to write them a glowing review. You probably found your photographer by reading online reviews, so paying it forward by letting everyone know how much you appreciate their work is a great gift. Write your review after they have delivered the final edited photos on time and you’ve confirmed that you’re happy with the terrific portraits they took.

What should you wear for a family photo?

A family photographer captures your family in a series of professionally edited portraits. You can be goofy, you can be formal, you can be exactly how you want to be. To that end, you can wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident — feeling good translates to looking good in photos. However, top family photographers do have some style suggestions that will make your family photos more visually cohesive:

Ask the photographer for color suggestions if you’re doing an outdoor photo shoot. Location and time of day can affect which shades will fade in the sunlight and what will stand out in a good way.
Stay away from a mix of stripes or plaids on multiple people — the effect is too busy.
Steer clear of tiny patterns, which blend together too much.
Avoid wearing matching outfits.
Do wear outfits that are complementary in color.
Choose color over black-and-white outfits.
Do choose a theme, such as pastels, fall colors or summer colors.
Opt for tonally similar colors.
Go easy on makeup for outdoor photo shoots.

How much do photographers charge for family portraits?

Family portraits are a great way to mark the passage of time, create lifelong keepsakes and have gorgeous-looking photos for your annual holiday card. The national average cost for hiring family photographers ranges from $150 to $200. Pricing can range higher depending on where you live, length of the photo shoot, the number of edited photos you request, and the background and reputation of your family photographer. Before hiring, make sure you understand their fees up front. Ask how many finished images are included in the quoted price and whether you will receive all the photos taken (not just edited photos). Ask whether you’ll be able to download digital photos or if you’ll have to print them or purchase digital copies through the photographer. Here are some average examples of family photographer pricing:

$175 for a one-hour studio session in Kansas.
$200 for a one-hour studio or outdoor session in Georgia. Includes two outfit changes, access to an online gallery, and about 200 high-resolution, edited digital photo files on a DVD, with permission to print.
$400 for a one-hour outdoor session in Southern California. Includes 25-30 fully edited photos accessible online or via CD/DVD.
$425 or more for a one-hour outdoor or in-home session in Illinois. Includes more than 50 professionally edited images, online access and print release.

Bob K.

Verified review

You don't need Woody ONeal for good pics. There are lots of good photographers available. But Woody is an excellent photographer with a creative brain and patience that far exceeds expectations.

Mckenzie Y.

Bethany & Eric are extraordinarily talented photographers. They really love what they do and make sure you feel comfortable and love your photos. They are also very affordable and will accommodate to your needs. 10/10 �

Bryan W.

Josh is one of the most talented photographers I’ve ever seen. During the shoot Josh played some peaceful music on his speaker and made sure we were comfortable. He did a great job directing us on where to stand with what he was envisioning for the pictures. My jaw dropped when our engagement pictures resulted. So happy with the way everything turned out.

Lindsey L.

Alicia was very professional yet easy to work with, very accommodating. We couldn't of asked for better photographs. She took the time to make sure we got what we were looking for. We look forward to having her take our family photos in future.

Tamara G.

Wonderful photographer! My pictures are absolutely amazing! Sarah took the time to work with me and was very flexible with her schedule. Professional and very easy to work with. I also received my pictures quicker than I have with any other photographer

Vanessa G.

We really enjoyed working with Paul for our engagement photos! He is professional and very easy to work with. He listened to our ideas and captured what we wanted, but also used his creativity that produced fantastic shots. His attention to detail and use of the lighting and background is spot on. I am recommending him to all of my family, friends and coworkers!

Steven L.

I could not have asked for anything more. Tomiko is professional and works hard to make her clients wedding day perfect! As a photographer of Hart & Soul Photography, Ive observed her friendly personality, exceptional ability to capture journalist wedding pictures and her genuine commitment to delivering outstanding customer service. Tomiko is an excellent photographer and I highly recommend her!

Victoria S.

Kristy has been our family photographer for over 8 years and I couldn't be more pleased. My kids and grandkids love her. She has a way of putting people at ease. My favorite thing about her photography, and I don't know how she does this, but she really brings out each ones beauty and personality. Also, she goes to great lengths to make her customers happy.

Lauren C.

There is no one else I would want for this type of service. They are personable, crazy talented and make you feel like family in seconds. Not only will you cherish the photos for a life time but you will be encouraged, understood and prioritized like no other. The pictures are BEAUTIFUL.

Summer S.

I had an amazing experience with jessica as my photographer! She was very detailed with her shots and made sure that every angle was a good one! Her work is phenomenal. My pictures turned out great. I will be hiring her for anything in the future that I'll need pictures for!!

Russell I.

Scott Cobb Photography did a great job for me and my family. We went to unique locations that perfectly suited our family. The finished product was delivered on time and the photos were great. I would recommend Scott and use him again.

About

Meredith Rowlen is a Birmingham area photographer of weddings, maternity, children, family, and senior pictures. Meredith Rowlen is also available for commercial photography. She works in the state of Alabama. I offer unique maternity and infant photography and Packages. I am also an Alabama premier wedding photography.

Bessemer, AL151 Family Photographers near you

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Talia P.

Bob K.

Mckenzie Y.

Bryan W.

Jillian H.

Lindsey L.

Tamara G.

Taylor M.

Vanessa G.

Steven L.

Victoria S.

Kevin S.

Medina S.

Lauren C.

Summer S.

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Do you tip a photographer for family photos?

What should you wear for a family photo?

How much do photographers charge for family portraits?

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