PPBN.TV #138: Family Vacation Photographer with Kirstie McConnell

When most photographers dream of a European adventure, they pack a camera. Kirstie McConnell moved there permanently. After relocating to Italy for the past five years and realising the language barrier made it impossible to serve local clients, she did what every great entrepreneur does — she pivoted with purpose. The result? A thriving high-end family vacation photography brand, perfectly positioned in some of the most photographed regions in Italy.

Kirstie doesn’t sell “a photoshoot.” She sells a once-in-a-lifetime Italian adventure — and clients are more than willing to invest. Her Classico Portraits sessions feel like guided tours through historic streets and iconic landscapes, running 2.5–3 hours or even full-day experiences. With an average family sale sitting above $9,000 AUD, she’s built a low-volume, high-impact business that stands worlds apart from the budget tourist-photo market.

Her marketing is intentionally simple: build strong partnerships with boutique luxury hotels, show up in large travel Facebook groups with helpful content, and focus on multi-generational families who consistently deliver the highest sales.

And for photographers back home in Australia, this model translates easily — showcase landmark-rich locations, partner with premium hotels, and lean into families travelling for milestone moments.

There is much much to get out of this interview. Its not just about Family Vacation Photography, Its how to service your clients in the highest possible way, creating an experience they will never forget and I know I’ve said it a thousand times before “generation” photography is where the party is at and this is 100% proof that it works!