Professional Photography Myths vs. Reality: Setting the Record Straight in Portland
- LaLa Photography Portland
- Sep 23, 2025
- 5 min read
Let's be honest—there are more myths floating around about professional photography than there are coffee shops in Portland (and that's saying something!). After years of running LaLa Photography Portland, we've heard every misconception in the book. From "it's too expensive" to "my kids won't behave," these myths keep amazing families from capturing memories they'll treasure forever.
Time for some myth-busting, Portland style! Let's separate fact from fiction and give you the real scoop on what professional photography is actually like.
Myth #1: "Portland Professional Photography is Only for Special Occasions"
The Myth: You only hire a professional photographer for weddings, graduations, or major milestones.
The Reality: The most treasured photos are often the "ordinary" moments that capture who your family really is right now.
LaLa Photography Truth: Some of our favorite sessions document:
The way your 4-year-old insists on wearing superhero costumes everywhere
How your family piles together on the couch for movie night
Your teenager's rare genuine smile (yes, they still have them!)
Why This Matters: In 20 years, you won't remember what "special occasion" prompted the photos—but you'll treasure seeing your family exactly as they were at this moment in time.
Myth #2: "It's Too Expensive for What You Get"
The Myth: Professional photography is overpriced for "just taking pictures."
The Reality: You're not just paying for someone to click a button—you're investing in expertise, equipment, time, and artistry.
What You're Really Getting:
Years of training and experience in lighting, composition, and working with families
Professional-grade equipment worth thousands of dollars
Hours of editing and post-processing to make your photos stunning
A curated gallery of your best moments (not 500 random shots)
High-resolution files that will look amazing printed at any size
An experience that brings your family together
LaLa Photography Perspective: When you break it down per family member, per year you'll treasure these photos, professional photography often costs less than your monthly coffee budget!
Myth #3: "My Kids Won't Cooperate"
The Myth: Professional photography requires perfectly behaved children who smile on command.
The Reality: Professional photographers are kid whisperers who know how to work with every personality type.
The Truth About Kids in Professional Photos:
Tantrums often lead to the sweetest comfort photos
Silly faces show authentic personality
Kids who "won't cooperate" usually just need a different approach
Some of the best photos happen between poses
Professional photographers have tricks, games, and patience for days
Interactive Poll: What's your biggest kid-related photo worry? A) They won't sit still B) They'll make weird faces C) They'll have a meltdown D) They won't smile "right"
Spoiler alert: All of these can create beautiful, authentic photos!
Myth #4: "I Need to Lose Weight First"
The Myth: You should wait until you look "perfect" to have professional photos taken.
The Reality: Professional photographers know how to make everyone look their absolute best, exactly as they are.
How Professional Photography Actually Works:
Professional lighting is incredibly flattering
Experienced photographers know the best angles and poses
Professional editing enhances your natural beauty
Confidence shows in photos more than any physical "flaw" ever could
LaLa Photography Real Talk: We've never had a client look at their finished photos and wish they'd waited. We've had hundreds wish they'd done it sooner.
Myth #5: "Professional Photos Look Too Stiff and Formal"
The Myth: Professional photography means uncomfortable poses and fake smiles.
The Reality: Modern professional photography focuses on capturing authentic connections and real emotions.
What Professional Photography Actually Looks Like Today:
Natural interactions between family members
Candid laughter and genuine expressions
Comfortable poses that feel like "you"
A mix of guided moments and spontaneous captures
Photos that feel like your family, just elevated
The LaLa Photography Approach: We're not trying to make you look like someone else's family—we're capturing the best version of YOUR family's authentic dynamic.
Myth #6: "Anyone Can Take Good Photos with Today's Cameras"
The Myth: Professional photographers are unnecessary because phone cameras are so good now.
The Reality: Great photography is about much more than having a good camera.
What Professional Photography Actually Involves:
Understanding light and how it affects mood and quality
Knowing how to compose shots that tell a story
Experience working with different personality types
Professional editing skills that enhance without over-processing
High-end equipment that captures details phones simply can't
The ability to direct and guide while keeping things natural
Think of It This Way: You can buy professional-grade art supplies, but that doesn't make you Picasso. The magic is in the skill, experience, and artistic eye.
Myth #7: "Professional Photographers are Intimidating"
The Myth: Professional photographers are serious artists who make you feel nervous and judged.
The Reality: Most professional photographers chose this career because they love people and want to capture joy.
What Professional Photographers Are Really Like:
We're usually the ones making silly faces to get kids to laugh
We understand that families are beautifully messy
We're experts at making people feel comfortable and confident
We're genuinely excited about capturing your family's story
We're often parents ourselves who totally get the chaos
LaLa Photography Promise: Our studio is a judgment-free zone where you can relax, be yourselves, and have fun!
Myth #8: "You Have to Book Way in Advance"
The Myth: Professional photographers are booked months out and impossible to schedule with.
The Reality: While popular photographers do book up, many have more availability than you think.
The Booking Truth:
Many photographers keep some availability for last-minute sessions
Weekdays often have more openings than weekends
Off-peak seasons may have immediate availability
Some photographers (like us!) prioritize making sessions accessible
Don't Let This Stop You: The worst thing that can happen is we're booked—but you'll never know if you don't ask!
Myth #9: "Professional Photos Take Forever to Get Back"
The Myth: You'll wait months to see your photos after your session.
The Reality: Most professional photographers have streamlined workflows and reasonable turnaround times.
Typical Professional Photography Timeline:
Paid In Full 3-5 days for complete edited photo gallery
Viewing: 1-2 weeks depending on the photographer
Final ordered prints: 2-4 weeks after ordering
LaLa Photography Timeline: We know you're excited to see your photos! We prioritize getting your memories back to you quickly without sacrificing quality.
Myth #10: "It's Just Not Worth It"
The Myth: Professional photography is a luxury that's nice but not necessary.
The Reality: Professional family photos become priceless family heirlooms that increase in value every single year.
The Real Value of Professional Photography:
Your kids will treasure photos of their childhood family
You'll have high-quality images for holiday cards, gifts, and home decor
These photos document your family history for future generations
The experience of being photographed together creates memories beyond just the photos
Professional photos often become the most cherished items in a home
Think About It: What's the most treasured photo in your house right now? Probably one that captures a real moment with people you love.
Ready to Experience the Reality?
Now that we've busted these myths wide open, what's stopping you from booking your LaLa Photography Portland session?
Professional photography isn't about perfection—it's about capturing the perfectly imperfect reality of your beautiful family. It's not about looking like someone else—it's about looking like the best, most authentic version of yourselves.
Your Reality Check Challenge: Look at your phone's photo gallery from the past month. How many include ALL family members? How many would look amazing printed and hung on your wall? Professional photography fills that gap.
Ready to experience the reality of professional photography? Book your LaLa Photography Portland session and discover what you've been missing!
📞 Ready to chat? Call (971) 801-0033
📍 Our studio: 9742 SW Tigard Street, Portland, OR
P.S. - Still have a myth we didn't address? Drop us a comment or message! We love debunking photography misconceptions and helping Portland families see that professional photography is more accessible, enjoyable, and valuable than they ever imagined.
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