How Much Should Your School Make from Photo Package Sales?

The Answer Depends on Your School's Goals

When schools evaluate photography companies, one of the biggest questions isn't always about the quality of the photos.

It's about the commission.

How much should a school earn from photo package sales?

The truth is, there isn't one right answer.

Every school has different priorities, different budgets, and different communities. That's why choosing a photography partner isn't just about comparing commission percentages. It's about finding a program that supports your school's goals.

Every School Is Different

Some schools want to keep photography packages as affordable as possible for families.

Other schools use photography commissions to help fund student organizations, athletics, teacher appreciation programs, or campus improvements.

Many schools fall somewhere in the middle.

The best photography program recognizes that every school has different financial priorities.

Higher Commission Doesn't Always Mean More Value

It's easy to compare commission percentages.

20%. ,25%., 30%.

But higher commissions don't appear out of thin air.

Someone pays for them.

In most cases, higher commissions mean higher package prices for families.

If one photography company offers a significantly higher commission than another, it's worth asking one simple question:

How does that affect what parents will pay?

Schools should carefully consider whether additional commission revenue is worth increasing costs for hundreds or even thousands of families.

The Best Programs Balance Everyone's Needs

A successful school photography program serves three groups:

• The school

• The families

• The photography company

When the program is balanced, everyone benefits.

Families receive affordable photo packages.

Schools earn meaningful commission revenue.

The photography company has the resources to provide excellent customer service, quality photography, technology, and local support.

Why MillerFoto Uses Flexible Grid Pricing

At MillerFoto, we understand that one pricing model doesn't fit every school.

That's why we offer Exclusive Grid Pricing.

Instead of telling schools what commission they should receive, we allow each school to select the package pricing and commission structure that best aligns with its goals.

Some schools prioritize affordability.

Some prioritize additional revenue.

Many choose a balance between the two.

Our role isn't to make that decision for you.

Our role is to provide options and help you choose the solution that best serves your school community.

Our Recommendation

After working with schools throughout Louisiana for more than 25 years, we've found that a Good Balance. It allows schools to generate meaningful revenue while keeping photography packages affordable for the greatest number of families.

Every school is unique, but for many, this approach creates the best long-term partnership between the school, parents, and the photography provider.

The Right Photography Partner Does More Than Write a Commission Check

When comparing photography companies, don't focus only on commission percentages.

Also ask:

• Will Picture Day run on time?

• How quickly will parents receive their photos?

• Is customer service local?

• Are student IDs printed on-site?

• Will yearbook files be accurate?

• How easy is it for families to order?

• Who answers the phone when there's a problem?

Those questions often have a much greater impact on your school than a few additional commission points.

Let's Build the Right Program for Your School

At MillerFoto, we believe your school—not your photography company—should decide what success looks like.

We'll help you create a photography program that balances affordability for families, fair revenue for your school, and an outstanding experience for everyone involved.

Contact Eric Miller today to discuss your school's goals.

📞 504-270-7822

For more than 25 years, MillerFoto has helped schools simplify Picture Day, improve the parent experience, and create photography programs that work for everyone.