The Cheap Photographer vs. The Established Photographer

You probably follow a vast majority of different types of photographers on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok. You see some offer sessions for $50 for an hour and you see others offer an hour for $450 or more! So why the huge cost difference and who is better?

A “cheap” photographer is probably a photographer who is just starting out, and thats okay – but with a cheap photographer you’ll also receive images at that value. This could mean a lot of things for the photographer to be offering such a low price and some could include: the photographer doesn’t know how to completely use their camera in manual mode, they don’t have the right system to edit photos, or maybe they don’t have a client experience system set up AT all (like contracts – that protect both you (the client) and the photographer.) And while we all have to start somewhere, trust me I have been there, going with the cheap photographer isn’t always the best approach. So as you read this, I’m sure you’re asking yourself “When would going with the cheaper photographer be fitting?” Well, if you don’t mind a photographer who is learning, who may or may not know how to efficiently pose you or your family with flattering angles, or someone who might not deliver your exact vision, then a cheap photographer might be the way for you to go!

But – if you’re looking for a vision, a vibe, an experience, then I can guarantee you the cheap photographer is not the way to go. Let me tell you why:

A photographer who is charging what you think is ‘excessive’, is a photographer who has invested in their business, their education, and their client experience. You won’t receive “just okay” photos, you’ll receive an experience tailored to you and your needs. This can look different for every photographer, but for me your experience starts when you visit my socials. From easy tips, ways to feel comfortable in front of the camera, to the inquiry process – this is ALL apart of your experience. My job as the photographer you’re investing in, is to give you an experience AND gorgeous photos. I want you to not only love the outcome of your portraits, but feel like you were heard, understood, and well prepared for your session (because I make sure ALL of those happen!) A photographer in the “expensive” category also keeps up on the latest and greatest in photography gear – from updating camera bodies, to the lens’s, the software and cleaning them on a routine basis. You’re paying for education, for your photographer to invest in themselves, that then results in them investing it back into the client (you!) The established, expensive photographer, probably has a system in place for you to not only receive your high resolution images, but print and frame them through the photographer – with a real print lab, not some Walmart prints. The Established Photographer knows their value and their worth for their clients.

Overall this isn’t to diss on the new photographer – because we were ALL new and all deserve a chance in this world – there’s enough room for everyone. What this is intended to do though, is to educate those who see the price differences and have always wondered why – why is the established photographer more valuable to me than the cheaper photographer. Hopefully this helps you when you’re looking to book your next session – find a photographer that fits you, your vision, and your values.