Is hiring a professional family photographer worth it?

Hiring a professional photographer is an expense i'm sure some think of as a luxury. I mean, with the cameras we have on our phones these days, it just seems easier and cheaper to have a friend take some pictures of you and that's that. But guys, creating beautiful and timeless family photos are something that a professional photographer has been educated and trained to do. Here are some reasons why a professional family photographer is worth the cost.

Memories that last a lifetime

Our families are constantly changing. Really, they are. Go take a look at an old picture you have of your family and tell me things haven't changed. You can't, right? Hairstyles, clothing choices, height, silly toddler personalities and moody tween pursed lips are all things a photograph can capture. They are part of your story. Not only does a picture preserve the memories of your children and who they were throughout the years, it also preserves family memories for your children. Displaying beautiful photos of your family taken by a professional photographer that knows how to bring out who you are as a family, is priceless! 

It's about time you got in the photo too

Yep. You know what I'm talking about. I'm in the same boat. My phone has hundreds of pictures of my kids, my kids with their dad, with my parents, and a few selfies with me. So there really aren't any pictures of me and my kids, which really, kind of sucks. Hiring a professional photographer lets you be in the pictures too! Your kids will want to remember that you were there making memories with them. Priceless.

Professional family photographers have experience... working with families

A friend that "has a nice camera" and takes your picture for you, may get everyone looking at the camera at the same time, sure. But what about the moments that can actually take your breath away? Do they know how to engage with your two year old that won't sit still? Do they know how to get dad to relax? Do they know how to bring out the smiles, giggles and cuddles that make for great and memorable moments that are being captured? Family photographers are pros at this, really. It's these images that are the difference between a professional photographer and a friend with a good camera. 

The best equipment and editing software

This is probably the most boring on the list, but it's true. Professional photographers invest a ton of money into their equipment and software. It really is more than just purchasing a "nice" camera and then taking pictures. With high quality cameras, lenses and equipment combined with top of the line editing software, professional photographers are able to create images that you will be proud to put up throughout your home.