12 Best Family Photographer in New Orleans
New Orleans offers stunning backdrops for family portraits, from the French Quarter to lush parks, making it a prime location for professional photography sessions.
4.5 avg. rating from 126 verified reviews!
Capturing Authentic Moments in NOLA
Finding the right setting in New Orleans requires understanding light and local architecture. Photographers often use post-production techniques like high-end retouching services to enhance the vibrant colors of the city. A skilled professional knows how to balance natural light with the unique shadows cast by historic buildings. Working with families involves directing subjects to create natural interactions rather than stiff poses. Utilizing newborn baby retouching services can help perfect images involving younger children who might have skin blemishes or uneven tones. The goal is to produce timeless memories that reflect the distinct character of the location.
Essential Equipment and Post Processing
Professional gear is essential for capturing high-resolution family portraits in dynamic environments. After the shoot, many photographers rely on photo retouching services to ensure consistency across the entire gallery. Proper lens selection allows for both intimate close-ups and wide environmental shots that showcase the scenery.
Editing plays a crucial role in delivering a polished final product to clients. Services such as photo color correction services help maintain accurate skin tones despite changing lighting conditions. Attention to detail during the editing phase separates amateur snapshots from professional artistry.
Zack Smith Photography
Commercial and Editorial Storytelling in New Orleans
5 of 5
#1
Experience
20+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
$350–$600/hr
Turnaround
5-7 Business Days
Zack Smith is a premier commercial and editorial photographer in New Orleans, leveraging over 20 years of experience to serve corporate and music industry clients. His market positioning is built on high-end storytelling and technical mastery, making him a top choice for brands seeking authentic, culturally rich visual content.
Jillian Marie Photography
Vibrant Wedding and Lifestyle Portraiture
4.9 of 5
#2
Experience
10+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
From $3,800/wedding
Turnaround
4-6 Weeks
Jillian Marie Photography specializes in vibrant, emotive wedding and portrait photography. Positioned as a boutique lifestyle studio, she captures the unique energy of New Orleans celebrations. Her brand appeals to couples seeking a blend of documentary and fine-art styles with a focus on authentic connection and local flair.
Julie Verlinden Photography
Luxury Newborn and Family Portrait Artist
4.8 of 5
#3
Experience
12+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
From $750/session
Turnaround
2-3 Weeks
Julie Verlinden is a specialist in maternity, newborn, and family photography, positioned as a high-touch, luxury portrait artist. Her work emphasizes soft, natural light and timeless aesthetics. She caters to families in the Greater New Orleans area looking for archival-quality imagery and a personalized studio experience.
Sarah Becker Photography
Artistic Wedding and Editorial Photography
4.7 of 5
#4
Experience
10+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
From $4,500/project
Turnaround
6-8 Weeks
Sarah Becker Photography occupies a high-end niche in the wedding and editorial market, focusing on soulful, artistic storytelling. Her positioning targets luxury clients who value film-inspired aesthetics and intimate, candid moments. She is recognized for her ability to blend New Orleans’ historic charm with modern elegance.
Olivia Grey Pritchard Photography
Refined Portraiture for Families, Pets, and Professionals
4.6 of 5
#5
Experience
11+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
$300–$500/hr
Turnaround
10-14 Business Days
Olivia Grey Pritchard Photography is a versatile studio specializing in high-end portraits, including children, pets, and commercial headshots. Positioned as a community-focused professional, she offers a refined yet approachable service. Her work is characterized by clean compositions and a strong focus on personality and character.
EyeLuster Photography
Professional Branding and Portrait Specialist
4.5 of 5
#6
Experience
8+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
$275–$650/session
Turnaround
1-2 Weeks
EyeLuster Photography positions itself as a premier branding and portrait studio in New Orleans. They focus on high-impact visual storytelling for professionals and entrepreneurs, utilizing sophisticated lighting and composition to elevate personal brands in a competitive digital marketplace.
Noel Marcantel Photography
Commercial and Editorial Visual Storytelling
4.4 of 5
#7
Experience
15+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
From $1,500/project
Turnaround
2-3 Weeks
Noel Marcantel is a senior commercial photographer with a strong foothold in the editorial and corporate sectors. His market positioning revolves around high-end production value and technical mastery, making him a top choice for advertising agencies and national publications seeking NOLA expertise.
Sarah Mattix Photography
Timeless New Orleans Wedding Photography
4.3 of 5
#8
Experience
12+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
From $3,800/wedding
Turnaround
6-8 Weeks
Sarah Mattix Photography dominates the New Orleans wedding market through a blend of documentary and fine-art styles. Her positioning targets high-end couples seeking timeless, emotional imagery that captures the unique architectural and cultural essence of the Crescent City.
AmyCherie Photography
Natural Light Lifestyle and Family Photography
4.2 of 5
#9
Experience
7+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
$450–$850/session
Turnaround
2-3 Weeks
AmyCherie Photography specializes in the lifestyle and family niche, positioning the brand as a warm, approachable choice for capturing milestones. Her aesthetic focuses on natural light and candid interactions, appealing to families looking for authentic, unposed memories in New Orleans.
Abbie Brandao Photography
Modern Wedding and Couple Photography
4.1 of 5
#10
Experience
5+ Years
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
From $3,000/wedding
Turnaround
4-6 Weeks
Abbie Brandao Photography targets the modern, adventurous wedding market. Her positioning emphasizes vibrant color palettes and candid storytelling, catering to couples who value a personalized, energetic approach to their wedding day and engagement photography in the Gulf Coast region.
Experience
Senior (20+ Years)
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
$350 - $850 per session
Turnaround
2-3 Weeks
Twirl Photography, led by Jennifer Zdon, specializes in high-end family and newborn portraiture. With a background in photojournalism, the studio captures authentic, candid moments using natural light. They occupy a premium market position in New Orleans, catering to families seeking timeless, storytelling-driven imagery and heirloom art.
THEE NYEJAY COLLECTIVE
Bold Portraiture & Creative Branding
3.9 of 5
#12
Experience
Professional (7+ Years)
Location
New Orleans, LA
Price Range
$250 - $1,200 per project
Turnaround
1-2 Weeks
THEE NYEJAY COLLECTIVE is a creative powerhouse focusing on bold, high-contrast portraiture and strategic brand photography. Positioned for entrepreneurs and fashion-forward individuals, the studio emphasizes visual storytelling that elevates personal brands. Their aesthetic is modern and vibrant, filling a niche for contemporary NOLA creatives.
Photographers Comparison Table
Compare specialties, pricing signals, and typical delivery timelines at a glance.
Pricing and turnaround may vary by season, coverage hours, and deliverables.
| Photographer / Studio | Hourly Rate | Full-Day Rate | Turnaround |
| Zack Smith Photography | $475/hr | $3,800/day | 14 Days |
| Jillian Marie Photography | $475/hr | $3,800/day | 42 Days |
| Julie Verlinden Photography | $375/hr | $3,000/day | 21 Days |
| Sarah Becker Photography | $560/hr | $4,500/day | 45 Days |
| Olivia Grey Pritchard Photography | $400/hr | $3,200/day | 14 Days |
| EyeLuster Photography | $275/hr | $2,200/day | 7 Days |
| Noel Marcantel Photography | $375/hr | $3,000/day | 21 Days |
| Sarah Mattix Photography | $475/hr | $3,800/day | 42 Days |
| AmyCherie Photography | $450/hr | $3,600/day | 14 Days |
| Abbie Brandao Photography | $375/hr | $3,000/day | 28 Days |
| Twirl Photography | $350/hr | $2,800/day | 21 Days |
| THEE NYEJAY COLLECTIVE | $250/hr | $2,000/day | 14 Days |
Conclusion & Summary
Selecting a photographer in New Orleans requires balancing the city’s unique architectural backdrop with the specific expertise of local professionals. Clients should prioritize portfolios that align with their desired aesthetic, whether it is the high-energy storytelling of commercial shoots or the intimate, natural light of family portraiture. Given the wide range of experience levels, from five-year rising stars to twenty-year veterans, it is essential to verify that the professional’s workflow and turnaround times meet the specific demands of your event or branding project.
Competitive differentiation in this market is driven by niche specialization and technical mastery. While wedding photography remains a cornerstone, the presence of dedicated specialists in luxury newborn art, pet portraiture, and creative branding allows for highly customized visual assets. By comparing hourly rates and project-based packages, clients can find a strategic partner who offers not just a service, but a distinct artistic vision that captures the vibrant spirit of the Crescent City.
Best for
Weddings & Events
Story-first coverage, dependable delivery, and complete galleries
Best for
Portraits & Lifestyle
Consistent editing, flattering light, and guided posing.
Best for
Commercial & Corporate
Fast turnaround, brand alignment, and production-grade workflow.
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick answers to common booking, deliverables, travel, and workflow questions.
What is the average hourly rate for professional photographers in New Orleans?
Hourly rates in New Orleans typically range from $250 to $600, depending on the photographer’s experience level and the complexity of the shoot.
How long does it usually take to receive edited photos?
You can easily send your images through Dropbox, WeTransfer, Google Drive, or any preferred file-sharing tool available. We also accept direct uploads in JPEG, PNG, TIFF, and RAW formats.
Are there photographers in New Orleans who specialize in commercial storytelling?
Yes, professionals like Zack Smith and Noel Marcantel specialize in commercial and editorial storytelling with over 15 years of experience each.
What is the starting price for a wedding photographer in the New Orleans area?
High-end wedding photography packages in the region generally start between $3,000 and $4,500 for professional coverage.
Can I find specialized newborn and family photographers in the city?
New Orleans has several specialists for families, including Julie Verlinden for luxury newborn art and Twirl Photography for storytelling family sessions.
Do New Orleans photographers offer branding packages for small businesses?
Yes, studios like EyeLuster Photography and THEE NYEJAY COLLECTIVE offer specific branding and creative portraiture packages starting around $250 to $275.
Is pet photography available in New Orleans?
Olivia Grey Pritchard Photography is a notable specialist offering refined portraiture specifically for pets alongside family and professional sessions.
What should I expect to pay for a standard portrait session?
Standard portrait sessions generally range from $450 to $850, often including a set number of edited digital files and a specific session duration.

