How Much Does a Family Photoshoot Cost? Budgeting Tips for Gold Coast & Northern Rivers Families

On the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers, you can expect most professional family photoshoot sessions to fall in the $400 – $900 range, depending on the photographer’s experience, location, session length, and what’s included. Some photographers work with a session-fee + image package model, while others offer a full-gallery model where you receive every image captured (usually 50+).

Deciding to have family photos taken can feel exciting…and then a little overwhelming when you dive into pricing, tiers and differing offerings. There’s so much choice, so many pricing levels, and photographers who all seem to offer something different. At the end of the day, it’s not just about the price—it’s about capturing memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime and beyond. This article takes a look at decoding what these models are and hopefully answers and decodes questions on how much a photoshoot costs

Understanding Family Photography Pricing Models

Family photographers, for the most part, follow one of two pricing strategies. The key to getting the most value is understanding the difference between the two and knowing which one best suits you.

The Session-Fee + Image-Package Model

This model typically includes a set session fee plus a limited number of edited images (for example, 10 or 20). Families can then purchase additional images or upgrade. While this can seem budget-friendly, many find it harder than expected to choose just a few favourites—and costs can rise from there.

The All-Inclusive / Full-Gallery Model (My Approach)

My model offers one investment for the session, plus everything captured during the experience meaning you walk away with the full story of your time together. You receive every image (usually 50 or more) and there are no surprise add-ons. It’s more transparent, relaxed, and tailored for families who want the full experience instead of picking favourites under pressure. My pricing can be seen here

Mini Sessions vs Full Sessions

Understanding the difference can help you budget and set expectations. 

What to expect from Seasonal Mini Sessions

• Short duration (15–25 minutes), set number of images ( often 5-10images)
  
• Set date and location
  
• Seasonal setups or themes
  
• Perfect for ticking a box or creating a quick snapshot of your family and everything has been done for you. You only need to arrive which can be very convenient.  If the convenience is a factor for you then this is a great option.
  

What to expect for Full Sessions

• Tailored locations, timing, and pacing
• More of an experience and purposeful time with family
• Unhurried, storytelling approach that fits your family
  
• More images delivered – in my case I do not set an amount but expect easily 50 and up.
• Ideal for authenticity – there is no family like yours ; its a full experience and every detail considered around your family story and needs including toddlers, pets, and extended family. These sessions are actually intentional time together, they are more of an experience and actually don’t feel like a shoot because they are tailored to you.  

In a nut shell , the seasonal mini is great value if you want convenience. They usually have a set number of images and additional purchases available. The full session is great value if you want control over how you want your family captured ; time , place and you have the photographer’s FULL attention.

Factors That Affect Family Photoshoot Cost

Several other things influence pricing. Understanding them helps you decide which type of session is right for your family:

• Location: Studio hire vs free locations like beaches or parks. Studios offer controlled lighting, while outdoor or in-home sessions capture natural, storytelling moments. Personally I love the beautiful beaches around the Gold Coast, Tweed Coast and throughout the Northern Rivers , the Hinterland is beyond beautiful and I have some beautiful locations showcasing this . I also LOVE home sessions and I’m ready and waiting for someone to ask for a skateboard park, or chasing chickens in their backyard – and that’s the beauty of this. We are only limited by imagination.
  
• Session duration: Mini sessions are quick and seasonal, perfect for budget-conscious families. Full sessions are longer, unhurried, and allow multiple locations, giving plenty of time for toddlers to explore and play.
  
• Wardrobe & styling: Some photographers provide wardrobe or props. I offer wardrobe guidance, ensuring your family looks cohesive and natural without carrying clothing or props.Because the focus is YOU not the props.
  
• Prints: Print packages or credits create tangible memories to display at home. Investing in prints ensures your images aren’t just digital files but part of your family story. I offer prins with all my packages – see here
  

Tips for Booking and Planning your Gold Coast and Northern Rivers Family photoshoot

I wrote a helpful article here on  preparing your kids ( and toddlers) for a stress free shoot and also how to book a family shoot here  

• Book early: Popular dates fill fast, especially on the Gold Coast and Northern Rivers.
  
• Plan wardrobe ahead: I provide guidance to make sure colours and textures work well together on camera. From experience, the camera sees things differently , I guide my clients on this and often LOVE to collaborate with them . I wrote a helpful article here on what to wear as well as some colour palette suggestions on my Pinterest board.
  
• Consider location carefully: Beaches around the Gold Coast , Northern Rivers and Tweed Coast , parks, or in-home sessions each offer a different look and feel. I also  love the look of Golden hour Hinterland fields and hills and have a few locations nailing this
  
• Think about prints: Decide whether you want a digital gallery only or physical prints to display. I offer a print credit to get you started – my packages and pricing here 

FAQs

Can pets be included?
Yes! Family photography is about capturing life as it is, and that includes furry friends.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s never too soon—or too late. Contact me to check availability and secure your session. Book your session here 

Do you offer extended family sessions?
Yes! I can accommodate larger groups. Some photographers cap the number of people or charge per additional person, so it’s always worth asking. My package details can be found here 

What’s the difference between a mini and full session?
Mini sessions are quick, set dates, and often seasonal. Full sessions are longer, tailored to your family, and allow for multiple locations and storytelling. 

Do you offer studio sessions?
I dont have a studio. My focus is lifestyle family photography in-home or outdoors, capturing authentic moments in natural light. If you are dreaming of a studio session , I have done studio and can book a studio on your behalf .If it’s a look you’re after – get in touch!

When booking a family photographer, think carefully about what you want most:

• Only a few quick photos? A mini session may be perfect.
  
• A full storytelling experience with unhurried time and lots of images? A full session is worth considering , and be mindful whether you want a few in a set package or would like a full gallery with everything included.
  

The style of the photographer and their editing should also resonate with you. If candid, natural, and playful family photos are what you love, that’s what you should prioritise.

Your family photos are more than pictures they’re memories you’ll revisit for years and hopefully adorn your walls fulling your home with memories . Choosing the right session ensures you get both beautiful images and a meaningful experience.

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Next Steps:
If you’re curious about a full family gallery, want to discuss dates, or see examples, contact me here, I’m happy to guide you through the options and help you plan a session that suits your family perfectly. I am based in Pottsville but serve from the Gold Coast , Tweed Coast all the way to Byron Bay and Ballina .