5 Ways to Save Money on Christmas Photos

Written By Mary Beth Eastman
Last updated November 20, 2017

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Money Saving Tips
November 20, 2017

Simple. Thrifty. Living.

Getting a family portrait or a collection of family photos taken during the holiday season and for Christmas has always been a popular and fun activity, and a family tradition for many. However, it can also be quite an expensive endeavor as well, as many professional photographers can charge an ample amount for their services, and specific packages for Christmas photos might cost even more.

Thankfully, there are actually a few things you and your family can do to save money on Christmas photos and still receive professional quality pictures.

1. Look for Coupons and Special Promotions

There’s a lot of competition amongst professional photographers in many areas. To try and gain your business, many might offer special promotions or coupons that you can take advantage of. Additionally, you might also find great savings on Christmas photos at popular deal sites online.

2. Ask a Friend

You may have a friend who does photography as a hobby, but if their pictures are good, why not have them take the photos? If you know a friend or family member that does photography, ask to see some of their work. If you think they’ve got what it takes to take good Christmas photos, ask them how much they would charge. If they’re a really good friend they might even do it for free!

3. Check out Department Store's Options

Many people don’t realize that major department stores often provide holiday photo services and typically don’t cost as much as a photography studio would.

4. Use Photo-Editing Apps and Software For Enhancements

Professional photographers might charge extra for fancy enhancements, but with photo-editing software on your mobile devices or your computer, you can create amazing photos and effects with a few clicks of the mouse. All you need is the images and the apps, many of which are free.

5. Only Purchase What You Need

Don’t be afraid to negotiate with photographers. If you don’t really need a bunch of extras, ask for a price without them. Additionally, if you don’t see a package that seems suitable, ask how much it would be for what you do want. Some photographers will be happy to provide you with a customized quote rather than take a chance on losing your business.

Pass these tips on to your friends and family this holiday season, and you’ll soon all be saving on your Christmas photos!

About the Author

Mary Beth Eastman

Mary Beth Eastman serves as the content manager for Simple. Thrifty. Living, where she is dedicated to helping readers use money and credit wisely. Mary Beth believes that access to the right financial information paired with a growth mindset are essential tools for getting out of debt and building wealth. Mary Beth has a degree in Journalism from Bowling Green State University and has focused her 20-year journalism career on putting readers front and center, carefully considering their concerns and presenting information that will help them in their everyday lives. She has won numerous statewide journalism awards. Her writing on personal finance as been featured on numerous websites in addition to Simple. Thrifty. Living, including Huffington Post and Lexington Law blog. Mary Beth resides in Pittsburgh, Pa., with her family and two rescue dogs.

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