Find a  photographers in Santa Cruz, CA

Find photographers in Santa Cruz, CA

Find photographers in Santa Cruz, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best photographers in your area.
Zip code

Find photographers in Santa Cruz, CA

Share a few details and we'll show you the best photographers in your area.
Zip code

Top 10 photographers in Santa Cruz, CA

Clients agree: these vendors are highly rated for knowledge, experience, communication, and more.
Your Moment, My Lens

Your Moment, My Lens

5.0(1)
3 hires on Fash
10+ years in business
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
Jessica R. says, "From the moment we began to converse about my wedding, I knew I liked this man’s energy. His character was so sweet and genuine and I could tell he loved his job. Photography isn’t just a job for him, it’s truly a passion and he wants you to have a great experience. His name “Your moment, my lens” is the perfect name because he truly connects with you to be comfortable to capture special moments of your life. I’m so blessed and thankful that I found this man here on this cite. When I began searching I was looking for a photographer for my wedding. He offered a pre wedding shoot and I was in awe of that. He does this to connect with you, get to know you, and make sure your big special day is what you always dreamed it would be. My man is a very serious man and he got him to smile and laugh and we had a great time working with Nicky. I can’t wait for the big day on October 6 2024. He’s already been so amazing and I highly recommend this experience with him!" Read more
StefanyGomezFotografia

StefanyGomezFotografia

New on Fash
8+ years in business
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
Hello everyone! I am Stefany, a photographer for 10 years with extensive experience in portrait photography for Families, children and newborn, I also have experience in fashion photography, product and increasingly loving the results after editing in FineArt! I love photography so much and I manage to turn it into a memorable memory that I propose challenges to exceed expectations! I will always find the perfect place for photographs, I consider myself an artist with an excellent eye for detail, so we will find the perfect photograph to capture those unforgettable memories. Let's create FineArt photography!
Way Fun Films / JPAAPE Photography

Way Fun Films / JPAAPE Photography

5.0(2)
Offers online services
40+ years in business
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
Josephine W. says, "Very accommodating on dates and time of our event . The “Fun” in Way Fun Films says it all .It was a fun experience when Jonathon was taking our pictures , he helped us relaxed and just be ourselves. " Read more
Shutterbug Studio

Shutterbug Studio

5.0(2)
Offers online services
89+ years in business
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
S B. says, "One of the best photographers I’ve ever had the pleasure of working with. Amazing attention to detail in each and every image. From lighting, image perspective, foreground and backround every image came out better than I could have ever anticipated. My wife and I initially began working with Rob and Shutterbug Studio when we hired him for our wedding. We found him to be kind, energetic and he blended right in with he wedding party. Nothing about our photography experience was overwhelming and Rob made every effort to relax us and feel comfortable which made every image come out even better. After we saw the pictures from the wedding we were more than elated. There was not one bad picture in the batch and each and every person and scene photographed came out great. We ended up hiring Rob multiple times for other work after the wedding for company pictures at holiday parties, head shots for employees and even some product photography. We’ve never been disappointed and he’s our go-to guy anytime we need any photos taken. " Read more
Brian Shoots Dba Four O Eight Five O Four Six Two Five Two

Brian Shoots Dba Four O Eight Five O Four Six Two Five Two

New on Fash
Offers online services
2 hires on Fash
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
Personable and talented high quality work. I work with all projects and have an amazing eye. I have great turn around depending upon the length of the project.
North Point Photography

North Point Photography

New on Fash
20+ years in business
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
At North Point Photography my colleages and I have over 15 years of experience shooting weddings and various events throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. We have never failed to deliver high quality images, quickly, with a high level of security. Our website acts as a gallery for your images to easily download, print, or share with family and friends. Our team members are trained on site and educated with various disciplines to support their role as your event photographer.
Jim Holtan Media

Jim Holtan Media

New on Fash
Offers online services
1 hire on Fash
12+ years in business
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
At Jim Holtan Media, we offer you excellence in communicating your message through the visual and the written word. Communication is the most important element when selecting a partner. At Jim Holtan Media we carefully go over your project with you to ensure we’re putting the most effective plan in place.
Rabiaz Art Photography

Rabiaz Art Photography

5.0(3)
6 hires on Fash
5+ years in business
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
Pasuthorn S. says, "Rabiaz is a good photographer and guide for travel in San Francisco too she so nice and kindness her photo gonna make you all look amazing" Read more
Claytive Team

Claytive Team

5.0(1)
8+ years in business
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
Pamelita A. says, "Ellie worked hard to create photos to fulfill my vision." Read more
Brinkley Capriola Studio

Brinkley Capriola Studio

5.0(2)
7+ years in business
Serves Santa Cruz, CA
Gabrielle S. says, "Brinkley is such an amazing photographer to work with. Not only does she make her subjects feel confident and comfortable, but she also has the ability to capture intimacy and likeness in her work. She is able to take very simple concepts, ideas, and sets and turn them into magic. She is patient and kind through the process and great at going with the flow on event days with lots going on. Brinkley is extremely passionate about her work and takes it seriously, while clearly enjoying the process. She will forever be my favorite photographer to work with!" Read more

Your photography questions, answered

Answers to commonly asked questions from the experts on Fash.

How much does a photographer cost?

The average cost to hire a photographer is $100 to $250 per hour, depending on their experience. However, photography prices vary significantly depending on the type of event or photo session:

Do you tip photographers?

The standard tipping etiquette for photographers depends on the type of photo session or event and how happy you are with the photographer's service:

  • Tip a wedding photographer $50 to $200 if the photographer exceeds your expectations. If the photographer works with a second shooter, be sure to tip the second photographer separately.
  • Consider tipping a family portrait photographer, pet photographer, or newborn photographer if you're happy with the photo session. However, tipping is not expected for family portraits taken at a big box store like JC Penney or Wal-Mart.
  • Tipping a photographer is not expected for headshots, commercial photography, real estate photography, or architectural photos.

If you're happy with the photographer's service, post a positive review online and share their photos on your social media.

How can I save money on a photographer?

Follow these tips to save money when you hire a photographer:

  • Book a "mini-session" – a shorter photo session that lasts only 20 to 30 minutes.
  • Choose your favorite photographers and follow them on social media. Some photographers may provide deals and exclusive offers.
  • Hire a less experienced photographer. However, be sure to review their portfolio to confirm they have enough skill to meet your photo needs.
  • Purchase prints from an online retailer instead of ordering them from the photographer.
  • Bundle multiple photo sessions for a discounted price. Some wedding photographers bundle engagement and wedding photos. Other photographers offer a bundle for newborn photos plus additional sessions as your child grows.

How far in advance should I book a photographer?

Book a wedding photographer as early as possible, ideally as soon as you've confirmed the date with your venue. Headshot, commercial, pet, and family portrait photographers typically don't require as much advanced notice. However, a popular, in-demand photographer may be booked out several months in advance.

How can I find the best photographer near me?

Follow these guidelines when searching for a photographer to ensure you find one who is the best match for you:

  • Look for photographers who specialize in the type of photography you want. A photographer who specializes in weddings won't be the best choice for a newborn baby photo shoot, and vice versa.
  • Review their online portfolios to confirm you like their photography style and aesthetic.
  • Read photographer reviews on Fash and Google.
  • Get a contract in writing before making a deposit.
  • Discuss the photo usage and printing rights to confirm how both you and the photographer can use the images. Photographers typically retain the copyright to the images, allowing them to use the photos for marketing and social media.

What questions should I ask a photographer?

Ask these questions to help you choose the best photographer for your needs:

  • How long have you been in business?
  • What type of photography do you specialize in?
  • What is your photography style?
  • Do you have an online portfolio I can view?
  • How far in advance should I book my photo shoot?
  • What deposit do you require, and is it refundable?
  • Do you have a photo studio? If not, where will you take the photos?
  • What should I do to prepare for the photo session?
  • How will you deliver the final photos to me?
  • How long will it take to get the photos?
  • Do you offer printed items or photo albums?
  • Who owns the rights to the photos?
  • Will you use my images on social media or your website portfolio?

Reviews for Santa Cruz photographers

Recent success stories from people in the Santa Cruz area.
Mr T.
Really a lot of light hearted fun to work with . Great images . He knew the questions and answers I was going to ask him . Before I even knew what I wanted .
Way Fun Films / JPAAPE Photography
Jim L.
If you have run into Robert Kandell, then you've run into an excellent photographer. We've used him for professional head shots, and for a family reunion. Robert is quite the competent professional photographer. I like how he puts all the shots on a website, from which you can download. There's no part of photography that he doesn't understand and excel at. He's a nice guy too! I can't recommend him highly enough.
Shutterbug Studio
David T.
Rabia was responsive, flexible, and very easy to work with. She worked precisely to my brief and I was extremely happy with the variety and quality of the photos she took.
Rabiaz Art Photography
Hannah G.
Brinkley has an incredible eye. She captured the essence of our farm and brand with such ease. Her photos have a dreamy and whimsical spirit that makes her work so unique.
Brinkley Capriola Studio
Napa G.
Jody is the most amazing wedding photographer EVER. There were so many incredible pictures – too many to choose from so we ordered them all! Our pictures were truly pieces of art, not just photos. Jody was very professional and walked through what was important to us before the wedding so she was sure to capture all the shots we wanted. She was great with the parents and grandparents. So many of my friends have said to me “I wish I knew your photographer when we got married, she did such an unbelievable job”. Her photojournalist style captured our love in every picture and documented the joy in our family and friends who celebrated with us.
Holman Photography
Rachel B.
Emily was a delight to work with, from booking through to getting our pictures ready. We met with her in person a month before the wedding to discuss our goals and preferences for the day, and Emily not only met those but captured us beautifully. My personal favorite is how she caught and sent us pictures of us kissing but also the moment immediately after a kiss, and she captured our love on the day perfectly with those shots. I can't stop looking at how happy we looked in our photos, and Emily’s work made it possible.
Emily Pillon Photography
Yvette T.
Absolutely wonderful experience. Made my daughter feel comfortable and took AMAZING graduation photos. Would recommend to all 👍🏽
Tiffany Johnson Photography
Capt. Al M.
Great work.
Jaffa Orange Photography
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