Somewhere between wrestling a carry-on into the overhead bin and your third sunscreen reapplication, you’ll look up and realize—this trip is flying by. And if you’re like most people, your phone’s camera roll is already full of blurry selfies, half-eaten fruit snacks, and exactly one group shot… where someone blinked. So let’s talk about the real MVP of vacation planning that no one tells you about: hiring a vacation photographer.

And before you even try to say “that’s too boujee, my Husband would never approve.” It’s for you—yes, even if your family’s idea of “matching outfits” is just everyone remembering to pack a clean shirt.

Whether you’re heading to a beach resort, a cozy cabin in the mountains, or a new city you’ve never been to—hiring a photographer for your vacation might just be the best decision you didn’t know you needed.

(P.s. feel free to send this blog to your husband right now to catch him up to speed). 

TL;DR: Is It Worth Hiring a Vacation Photographer?

If you want beautiful photos that include everyone, a relaxed experience guided by a local pro, and keepsakes that make you smile every time you walk by that framed print?

Then yeah—it’s worth it.

If you’re on a tighter budget or planning something super low-key, that’s okay too. But don’t write it off just because it feels extra. It’s not extra to want to be in your own memories.

Why Hire a Photographer on Vacation?

This isn’t about being fancy. It’s about capturing the good stuff—together. Here are 5 reasons why hiring a photographer on vacation may be one of your new best kept secrets. 

1. The Quality Photos

This is the obvious one, but important. There’s a difference between “the lighting was bad” and “we hired someone who knows what they’re doing.”

Not to toot my own horn, but a professional vacation photographer has the skills, gear, and eye to make your memories look how they felt. Including those golden hour glows, laughter that doesn’t feel forced, and zero worrying about whether your finger is covering the lens. Win-win-win.

2. You Actually Get to Be in the Photo

I mean, how many family vacation photos do you have that you would actually hang on your living room wall or send as a holiday card? 

Now, raise your hand if you’re always the one behind the camera.

Exactly.

Hiring someone means you’re all in the frame. Together.

Not cropped in. 

Not taken by a stranger at a weird angle. 

And not a gazillion tries with a $15 tripod you got shipped to your house from Amazon moments before your vacation started. Just you, your people, and a gallery that finally includes everyone.

3. It’s More Than “Just a Trip”

Celebrating a birthday? A reunion? First vacation as a family of five? Or just finally taking that bucket list trip?

Those milestone moments deserve more than blurry selfies. Or worse, a group shot where one of you isn’t even looking in the right direction and the other is mid-blink. 

4. These Moments Won’t Repeat. Ever. 

Not to be that momma that “told you so”, but it’s true. I’ve seen it first hand on my own family vacations. Memories that I wish I had to look back on in an album—but just don’t. 

Your toddler’s chubby cheeks. Your teens still kind of liking each other. Or your parents walking hand-in-hand on the beach. 

These aren’t just photos—they’re time capsules.

You’ll come home with more than just souvenirs. You’ll have keepsakes that mean something for many generations. 

5. Local Expertise = Better Photos + Better Experience

Hiring a resort photographer or a vacation family photographer means you get more than just pictures—you get the insider scoop.

I know the secret viewpoints, the prettiest alleys, and where the light hits just right. You get to explore like a local and go home with pictures that don’t look like everyone else’s vacation slideshow walking along the beach at sunset. (BTW, not judging—I love a good sunset beach photo as the next person). But you get the point.

Not to mention, if you hire a vacation photographer that hasn’t been where you’re going…You can count on me to research the city, town, beach, mountain up and down until I know the area like the back of my hand to ensure you have the best experience possible. 

For reference though, here are a few of my favorite destinations to travel for family vacation photos: 

• Literally anywhere along Country Road 30A in Florida 
• The Blue Ridge Mountains in NC
• The Smoky Mountains in TN
• Savannah, GA
• Charleston, SC

3 Things to Consider Before Booking a Vacation Family Photographer

1. Budget

Photographers can range from $400 for a mini session to over $1,000 for full coverage at luxury resorts or destinations.

If you’re planning a bigger trip or celebrating something major, it might feel like a no-brainer. If you’re just grabbing a weekend at the lake, it’s okay to prioritize differently.

My Best Tip: Look for photographers who offer vacation mini sessions or shorter time slots—perfect for quick, meaningful shoots without breaking the bank.

P.S. Want to learn more about mini photography sessions? Check out this blog post! 

2. Time Commitment 

A vacation family photo session doesn’t have to eat your whole day, but it will take some coordination. You’ll need to pick a time (hello, golden hour—my favvvv), get everyone dressed, and head to the agreed spot.

If your trip is packed with tours and naps and travel logistics, plan ahead to avoid stress. Head to this blog to see my 5 tips for stress-free family photos! 

3. Comfort Level 

Being in front of the camera is not everyone’s jam. I get it, truly. If you’ve never done a professional shoot before, it’s okay to feel nervous.

But here’s the good news—a great vacation photographer knows how to guide you (Hi, it’s me!). You don’t need to practice poses or worry about being “photogenic.” You just have to show up as yourselves.

Plus, if you’re wanting some tips on what to wear for your family photoshoot, grab my free style guide below. 

Tips for Booking the Right Vacation Photographer

Husbands on board & you’re ready to go for it? Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Search “vacation family photographer” or “hire a vacation photographer”
• Look for recent reviews and full photo galleries—not just the best 3 shots on Instagram or what;s featured on their portfolio page. 
• Make sure their style matches yours—light and bright, moody and dramatic, candid or classic?
• Ask if they’ve worked with families (especially with young kids!)
• Confirm what’s included—number of images, delivery timeline, number of outfits, location options (You can see my services here!)

Creative Ideas for Vacation Family Photos

Not into stiff poses or matching khakis on the beach? Good. Neither am I. 

• Barefoot beach walks at sunrise or sunset
• Ice cream drips on cobblestone streets
• Hotel bed jumping (you know you want to)
• Hiking or picnic snapshots mid-adventure
• Candid cooking or hanging out in your Airbnb
• Snuggles on a dock after a long swim day

It doesn’t need to be formal — the best photos are the ones of you and your family just doing your thing! 

There’s something really powerful about saying: “We’re here. Let’s remember this.”

So if you’ve been wondering whether to hire a vacation photographer, here’s your permission slip to say yes—if not this trip, then maybe the next one.

You deserve to be in the frame. All of you.

Ready to Book a Vacation Photographer?

Let’s make your travel memories last long after the bags are unpacked. Get in touch, here!

Want to see more of my family photography? Check out my Pinterest for more inspo!