I'm in a bit of a dilemma with senior portrait season rapidly approaching. Last year I offered packages but only one client actually took the package as is. Everyone else either altered them or ordered a la carte. Sensing that my clients preferred to be able to get just what they wanted, I made the decision to go entirely a la carte this year.

Well, I've had a few inquiries from parents and they always ask about the cost. I tell them the session fees and they them say something like "but what are the pictures going to cost me?". I explain a la carte to them but most just seem confused.

So should I go back to packages and just keep changing them like I did last year?

Why is doing the "simple" thing so complicated?

I agree it can be confusing for parents... I just started doing seniors this year. I do a la carte and my print orders have ranged from $150 to $1300... so who can say what 'normal' is?

I would suggest having a PDF file with all your prices and maybe a couple 'sample packs' as suggestions. Or even a complete a la cart list followed by a couple packages that give a slight discount off the separate pricing.

Anyone else? I'm curious too... ;-)

Last year I offered print packages for senior portraits, I nixed that for this year and make about twice as much in print sales as I was before.

i do both. all of my seniors last year except one ordered a package. most parents find it easier. but if you are finding in your area its not worht it then dont do it. remember its your business =)

julie b

I've gone to an a la carte system because EVERYONE wants to change SOMETHING in a package and I figure it's easier than trying to adjust on the fly.

But I just read somewhere that the seniors want wallets wallets wallets to give their friends. I'm thinking of adding a wallet package (one image, just like wedding invitation 4x6's that people slip-in) as a separate a la carte print option.

My packages include a session fee and a print/product credit, that way they see a fixed price but can use the credit to build their own package.