The Picture People: Pricey but Good Quality Portraits

Ever since I had my son four years ago, we have gone to the Picture People to get my children's pictures taken. With both of my boys, we got them newborn shots at the Picture People, rather than from the hospital. In case you are wondering, the Picture People is a photography franchise with stores around the country-usually in malls.

There are never any sitting fees at the Picture People. This makes it nice if you would like a family portrait. Another huge bonus is that the portraits are ready in about an hour. If you are like my family and wait until the last minute to get Christmas pictures taken, this is definitely a plus. Those with pets will be happy to know that you may also bring your pets in to be photographed at the Picture People; you can even include your pet in a family photo.

An average visit to the Picture People takes place somewhat in this order:

1. Call a few days in advance to schedule your appointment (although they do take walk-ins.)
2. Go to your appointment. Be sure to bring extra clothing, a brush or comb, and any coupons you plan to use for your portrait purchase.
3. Wait for your photographer to call you back into the photo room. The waiting area has tables and chairs, and is bright and colorful. There is a little pretend camera/picture screen for children to play with.
4. Get pictures taken.
5. Come back in one hour to review and select photos. This is when you will also pay for your portraits.

The Picture People is somewhat pricey. A standard pose includes one 8X10, two 5X7's, and eight wallets. This will cost $46. To buy a total of six poses will cost $246. The cost for one additional sheet of pictures is $18. Often you can find coupons or various promotions on their website-especially around the holidays such as Christmas, Easter, Halloween, and Valentine's Day.

The Picture People also offers a portrait club that you may join for $39.95, which offers $100 in savings over the course of the year. If you are getting a lot of photographs done, you may want to consider this as you get some free portrait sheets as well as $10/$20 off coupons. On the website, you may also sign up for their Birthday Club and Baby Club, and you will then receive special discounts/coupons in the mail.

I have almost always had a good experience at the Picture People. A few times I had pictures that I was not satisfied with, and they gladly reprinted them for me. You may be able to get portraits for less money elsewhere, but the Picture People offers higher quality and faster service.