The Truth About “Free” Photoshoots – And Why Transparency Matters in Baby Photography

Have You Been Burned by a “Free” Photoshoot Offer? You’re Not Alone.

I hear it far too often: A parent sees a tempting ad for a free photoshoot or receives a gift voucher for a baby session. They book in, thinking it’s a great deal—only to walk out feeling overwhelmed, pressured, and sometimes several thousand dollars out of pocket.

This kind of bait-and-switch marketing might be legal, but it’s not kind. And in my opinion, it’s not good for the photography industry—or for families who just wanted to capture some special moments with their baby.

How the “Free Shoot” Trap Usually Works

Here’s the typical playbook:

1. You’re offered a free or low-cost session—sometimes through social media, a giveaway, or a baby expo.
   

2. The shoot itself might be lovely (or rushed), but you aren’t shown any prices beforehand.
   

3. Later, you’re invited to a high-pressure sales appointment, where the only way to get a single image is by purchasing a package, or paying exorbitant prices for a single print.
   

4. Those packages? Often thousands of dollars for a handful of images—sometimes without digital files.
   

5. You’re left feeling like you have to spend more than you planned… because who can walk away from photos of their baby?
   

This experience can feel manipulative. And I know many families walk away feeling taken advantage of.

A photo session for your baby should be fun for everyone, without hidden costs or pressure sales tactics. © Amy Tong Photography

It Doesn’t Have to Be That Way

Photography should be joyful, not stressful. You deserve to know upfront what things cost—without the pressure, the sales pitch, or the surprise invoices.

That’s why I run things differently.

At Amy Tong Photography, what you see is what you get:

• A calm, baby-led session in my Inner West studio

• A full set of beautifully edited digital images

• Simple, fixed price digital packages, and no pressure sales to force you to buy — my prices are clearly listed before you book and I don't do in-person sales so you can think clearly at home about what you want to purchase
  

There are no hidden costs. No emotional sales meetings. No pressure to upgrade. Just genuine, transparent photography you can trust.

What to Watch Out for When Booking a Photographer

Here are a few red flags to keep in mind:

• If the session is free (or super cheap) but you can't see a full price list upfront

• If digital images aren’t included in any package

• If they only show you pricing after your shoot

• If they won’t send pricing in writing before your session
  

Ask questions. Don’t be afraid to walk away. And most importantly—don’t let anyone pressure you into spending more than you want or can afford.

Let’s Bring the Focus Back to What Matters: Your Family

Beautiful baby photos shouldn’t come with buyer’s remorse. They should be a celebration of your little one and the season you’re in—not a stressful or confusing experience.

If you’re looking for a baby photographer in Sydney’s Inner West who believes in honest pricing and heartfelt service, I’d love to hear from you. My full price list is available before you book, and it includes everything—no surprises, no sales pitch.

Just timeless photos. And a straightforward process from start to finish.

📸 Ready to book your baby’s session? Get in touch with me for availability and pricing.

🍼 Still browsing? [View my portfolio] to see what your session could look like.

Amy xx