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How to Budget for Family Portraits

How to · Event

How to Budget for Family Portraits

Capture those family milestones without the stress of a single, heavy bill hitting your bank account all at once.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $450 before anything else
Across the 0% window $25.00/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $450 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

You want photos that don't look like a frantic school picture day. The best way to get that is by picking a weekday morning when the light is soft and the locations aren't swamped with weekend crowds.

Booking these sessions takes a bit of planning, but it's worth it for the result. Here is how to keep the cost manageable while you get the portraits you actually want to hang on the wall.

That 0% window is a deadline, not a gift. If you haven't paid off the $450 by the end of the 18 months, you will start owing interest on whatever is left over.

The steps

  1. 01

    Pick a weekday window

    Photographers often charge less for Tuesday or Wednesday sessions. Ask about their off-peak rates before you commit to a date.

  2. 02

    Set your total budget

    Keep the $450 target in mind for the base session fee. Factor in any extra costs for prints or digital files so you aren't surprised by the final invoice.

  3. 03

    Use your credit card terms

    The Citi Simplicity® Credit Card offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you spread that $450 cost over 18 months, which comes out to $25.00 per month.

  4. 04

    Automate the payments

    Set up a recurring transfer for $25.00 to your card each month. This ensures you pay off the balance before the 18-month window on purchases expires.

  5. 05

    Confirm all fees upfront

    Ask if the package includes high-resolution digital files or if those are sold separately. You want to know the total out-the-door price before you sign a contract.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Is it worth booking a weekday?

Yes. Beyond the potential price break, locations are much quieter on weekdays, which makes for a more relaxed experience for kids and less editing for the photographer.

What happens if I miss a payment?

Missing a payment can lead to late fees and might cancel your 0% rate. Always set up an auto-pay for at least the minimum amount required.

Should I tip the photographer?

If they are the business owner, a tip isn't expected. If they are an associate working for a studio, a small tip is a nice gesture for great service.

Can I use this plan for a wedding?

This math is specific to a $450 portrait session. Weddings are much more expensive and complex, so don't try to apply this simple budget to a large-scale event.