Family Photographer NYC & NJ
Pricing, Tips, and How to Find a Great Photographer
In this guide, we'll explain how to find the right family photographer for you. Our goal is to simplify a process that could feel a bit stressful into something simple and easy-to-understand!
By the end of this guide, you'll know:
- What to consider before choosing a family photographer
- The best spots to take great family photos (plus the best times of day to shoot)
- What to wear and how to get your kids to behave and look great in their photos
- How much family photographers typically charge, and what you should expect to pay
Ready to get started?
Family Photographer NYC & NJ
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Things to take into consideration:
- Your family photos need to reflect what's most important to you. Are there particular locations that have special meaning to you and your family? Do you have an animal or anyone else (besides your immediate family) who you'd like to capture in some photos? Is there a particular style of photography or lighting you like? You don't just want generic photos taken on a portrait backdrop – you want something that tells your story and shows your uniqueness.
- Your session should be enjoyable and fun! Some photographers have difficulty directing you and keeping the energy high during the shoot because they're too focused on the technical aspects (lighting, lenses, framing, etc.). Others might not be good at directing children and getting them to laugh for natural smiles. Unfortunately working with a photographer like that can lead to less-than-desirable expressions – uncomfortable, awkward smiles, weird poses, etc. Be sure to work with a photographer who makes your shoot an enjoyable, positive experience! Here are a few tips on how to look confident in photos.
- The photographer should take your post-shoot needs into consideration. If a photo is taken too close, it might not be possible to use it later on holiday cards, social media, or even your website (if you have a family-owned business). Your photographer must take these things into consideration throughout the photoshoot.
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Spots We Recommend
There are tons of great locations for family photoshoots, but the most important thing to consider is – are there any places that hold significance to you?
Is there a special park nearby? Do you live in a small town and want to highlight one of its landmarks? Consider shooting at at least one location that holds significant meaning to you and your family, and then you can also consider some of the below recommended locations that work well for family photo sessions:
Is there a special park nearby? Do you live in a small town and want to highlight one of its landmarks? Consider shooting at at least one location that holds significant meaning to you and your family, and then you can also consider some of the below recommended locations that work well for family photo sessions:
- Parks: Parks can offer a natural and scenic backdrop for family photos. Look for a park with trees, flowers, and greenery to provide a colorful and vibrant setting. In winter, you can look for areas with evergreen trees, snow-covered paths, or even frozen lakes to provide a beautiful setting.
- Beaches: Beaches can be a great location for family photos, especially if you're looking for a casual, relaxed vibe. The sand, ocean, and sunset can create a beautiful and serene setting.
- Urban locations: Urban locations such as downtown areas, city streets, and alleyways can offer a unique and edgy backdrop for family photos. Look for interesting architecture, graffiti, and other street art to add character and texture to your photos.
- Nature preserves: Nature preserves can offer a more rustic and wild setting for family photos. Look for areas with trees, streams, and hiking trails to provide a natural and scenic backdrop.
- Historic sites: Historic sites such as castles, forts, and museums can offer a unique and interesting backdrop. Look for areas with interesting architecture, antique furniture, and other artifacts to provide a historical and vintage feel.
- Your own home: Finally, don't overlook the option of taking family photos in your own home or backyard. This can provide a comfortable and personal setting, and allows you to showcase your own unique style and personality.
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The Best Time of Day to Take Photos
The ideal time of day for taking family photos largely depends on what kind of aesthetic you're looking for, as well as the location. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
In general, we recommend avoiding direct sunlight or harsh overhead light, which can create unflattering shadows and highlights. Soft and diffused light (shaded areas, overcast days, or indoor locations with large windows) typically work best.
The best family photographers know where the light will look best, and some may opt to use reflectors or diffusers if needed to soften and bounce the light. Others may use a flash or artificial lighting to fill in shadows (or create dramatic effects).
Overall, the ideal time of day for family photos depends on the aesthetic you're going for, where the shoot is taking place, and the lighting conditions on site. However, with the right photographer, it's usually possible to capture beautiful and memorable family photos at any time of day.
- Early Morning: Early morning is great for family photos, especially if you want a serene and peaceful backdrop. The soft morning light can create a soft, dreamy effect. However, this may require an early start and may not work for all locations.
- Late Afternoon/Early Evening: Late afternoon to early evening, also known as "golden hour," is a popular time for family photos. The warm, golden light can create a beautiful and flattering glow on your skin, as well as a dramatic effect. This time works best if you're looking for skyline photos and will have direct sun hitting your face. Keep in mind that it requires specific planning around sunset.
- Midday: Midday, between 11 am and 2 pm, can be challenging due to the harsh overhead sun, which can cast unflattering shadows and contrast. However, midday works just fine for indoor locations or shaded areas.
- Nighttime: Nighttime shots can be quite unique, especially if you're shooting against the city skyline or in a well-lit location. However, nighttime requires more lighting equipment and may be limiting in terms of the types of photos you can achieve. Remember to dress warmly and bring hot beverages if it's cold out to keep everyone comfortable during the shoot.
In general, we recommend avoiding direct sunlight or harsh overhead light, which can create unflattering shadows and highlights. Soft and diffused light (shaded areas, overcast days, or indoor locations with large windows) typically work best.
The best family photographers know where the light will look best, and some may opt to use reflectors or diffusers if needed to soften and bounce the light. Others may use a flash or artificial lighting to fill in shadows (or create dramatic effects).
Overall, the ideal time of day for family photos depends on the aesthetic you're going for, where the shoot is taking place, and the lighting conditions on site. However, with the right photographer, it's usually possible to capture beautiful and memorable family photos at any time of day.
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What to Wear to a Family Photoshoot in NYC or NJ
So, what do you wear to a family photoshoot? Here are some tips:
If you want to dive deeper on all the intricacies of what to wear in photoshoots, check out our Ultimate Guide to What to Wear on Camera.
And if you're wondering what to bring, this guide we wrote on How to Prepare for a Photoshoot will give you some ideas.
- Coordinate, don't match: While everyone wearing the same outfit can be fun, it's not necessary. We recommend coordinating your outfits to create a cohesive look. Choose a color palette or a theme, and select outfits that complement each other without being too matchy-matchy.
- Dress for the location: Consider the location and season when selecting your outfits. If you're shooting in a park or nature preserve, choose outfits that are casual and comfortable. If you're shooting in an urban location, you may want to dress up a bit more.
- Dress for your body type: Choose outfits that flatter your body type and make you feel comfortable and confident. Avoid outfits that are too tight, too loose, or unflattering.
- Accessorize: Accessories can add interest and personality to your outfit. Consider adding a scarf, hat, or jewelry to complete your look.
- Consider the weather: Dress appropriately for the weather. If it's cold outside, bring warm jackets, hats, and gloves. If it's hot outside, choose lightweight fabrics and breathable materials.
- Don't forget about shoes: With family portraits, there's a high probability that your shoes will be in the shot. Choose shoes that are comfortable and appropriate for the location.
If you want to dive deeper on all the intricacies of what to wear in photoshoots, check out our Ultimate Guide to What to Wear on Camera.
And if you're wondering what to bring, this guide we wrote on How to Prepare for a Photoshoot will give you some ideas.
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How Much Should You Spend on Family Photography?
So how much do family photos cost in NYC or NJ? Well, prices can vary widely depending on location, photographer experience, and package offerings. Here are some guidelines to help you determine an expected budget for family photography:
In general, the average cost of family photography in NYC and NJ ranges from $200 to $700. Some photographers may charge as little as $150 for a basic package, while others may charge upwards of $1,000 for a premium package.
Factors that can affect the price of family photography include:
- Determine Your Priorities: First, decide on what's most important to you. Is it the photographer's experience? The style of photography? What kinds of tangible products you'll be getting afterwards (prints, greeting cards, etc.)? Make sure whoever you hire will deliver on your needs (even if they're just giving you the raw images, you should still make sure you'll have the rights to get them printed elsewhere).
- Do Your Research: Research different photographers and their pricing and packages. Look for photographers whose style and personality resonate with you, and read reviews and view portfolios to get a sense of their work. Some photographers may even offer guarantees (if you're unhappy, you can request a reshoot or refund).
- Set a Realistic Budget: Keep in mind that high-quality family photography often comes with a higher price tag, but for a great experience and genuine smiles, it's often worth the investment.
In general, the average cost of family photography in NYC and NJ ranges from $200 to $700. Some photographers may charge as little as $150 for a basic package, while others may charge upwards of $1,000 for a premium package.
Factors that can affect the price of family photography include:
- Photographer experience and reputation
- Time and travel expenses
- Length of shoot & number of locations or outfit changes (each change of clothes adds significant time due to the need to find places to change)
- Editing and post-production time
- Prints, greeting cards, and other products included in the package
Our Family Photography Packages & Prices
If you're still looking for a family photographer and you're based in NYC or NJ, we'd love the opportunity to work with you!
With a rich history of 17 years and over 25,000 individual shoots (headshots, family photos, and more), our #1 goal is to create an enjoyable and memorable family photoshoot experience, leaving you with photos you'll treasure forever. We have over 300+ five-star reviews on Google, and it makes us smile ear to ear when our clients tell us that they have "never loved photos of themselves so much before."
Here are our primary family photo packages (but note that these can be customized if you have specific needs):
With a rich history of 17 years and over 25,000 individual shoots (headshots, family photos, and more), our #1 goal is to create an enjoyable and memorable family photoshoot experience, leaving you with photos you'll treasure forever. We have over 300+ five-star reviews on Google, and it makes us smile ear to ear when our clients tell us that they have "never loved photos of themselves so much before."
Here are our primary family photo packages (but note that these can be customized if you have specific needs):
"Mini Shoot"
$350
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"Full Session"
$450
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"Deluxe Shoot"
$550
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Get in Touch
Our #1 goal is to capture your story in a way that feels authentic and unique to who you are as a family.
Please email us at [email protected] for a free consultation, and we'll get back to you within a few business hours.
Please email us at [email protected] for a free consultation, and we'll get back to you within a few business hours.
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LGBTQ+ Friendly – We are an inclusive and accepting photography service, celebrating families in all their forms. We warmly welcome and support the LGBTQ+ community, and are committed to providing a safe and comfortable environment for all of our clients.
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