How Much Should I Spend on Family Portraits?

One of the most common questions families ask when considering professional portraits is, “How much should we spend?” The honest answer is: it depends. Every family is different, and so are their priorities, spaces, and goals for their portraits.

Portraits are an Investment in Family. 

For most families who choose a custom, professional photography experience, the investment typically falls between $2,000 and $5,000. That usually includes a thoughtfully curated collection of artwork—often a few large wall canvas prints for the home, smaller gift prints for loved ones, a beautifully designed album, and a set of digital files for archiving and sharing. While that number can sound surprising at first, it’s important to look beyond the price tag and consider the long-term value.

Portraits provide a lifetime of memories. 

Unlike many things we spend money on—phones that are outdated in a few years, furniture that wears out, or trends that fade—

•          Family portraits tend to stay with us for decades.
•          Most families will enjoy seeing these images on their walls every single day for 20 years or more.
•          They become part of the visual history of the home, quietly reminding us of who we are, where we’ve been, and what matters most.
•          When you break it down over time, professional family portraits are less of an expense and more of an investment in family legacy.

These images often grow in value as the years pass. Children grow up, parents age, and someday these portraits become cherished heirlooms—pieces that tell your family’s story long after the moment has passed.

You can trust Don Polo Photography with your family memories.

At Don Polo Photography, this philosophy is at the heart of everything we do. Adilfa Ford has been creating heirloom-quality family portraits for Utah families for over 30 years. With decades of experience, Adilfa understands how to design portraits that are not only beautiful today but timeless for generations to come. As a Certified Professional Master Photographer, she brings technical excellence, artistry, and a deep understanding of how to create images that feel authentic and meaningful.

Ultimately, the right amount to spend on family portraits is the amount that aligns with how much you value preserving your family’s story. For many families, knowing that their portraits will be displayed, loved, and passed down makes the investment not only worthwhile—but priceless.

Choose Don Polo Photography for your next portrait session.