Saturday, November 28, 2009
Baby A Session
Enjoy the sneak peak! :) I had so much fun playing with a girly girl today, she's so sweet, and tiny, annnnd adorable to boot! What more could I ask for? :)
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Why does custom photography cost more you ask?
~Keep in mind here, I know I'm priced well below what most custom photographer's are...~
Why Does Custom Photography Cost More?
February 27th, 2008 by admin
The digital revolution has brought amazing flexibility and ability to control various factors during the image taking and making process. Photographers, the hobbyist, the professional, the amateur all benefit from this ability to manipulate pixels. However, with flexibility comes a price. Digital camera equipment is still considerably more expensive when you factor in its’ lifespan, the need for additional resources for processing those images, the time it takes to get a usable image and the effort that goes into creating a work of photographic art.
We all know that you can go to the local Walgreen’s and pay a $1.99 for a print - as a client you may wonder why you may pay upwards of $50, $70, $90 for a custom photography print. Photographers hear this statement every once in awhile:
“How in the world can you charge $60 for an 8×10 if it costs me less than $2 to print at x store?”
The truth of the matter is the answer to this question is multifaceted. Much of the cost of a photographic print produced by a professional photographer has a lot to do with the time, equipment costs, artistic vision and reputation of the photographer not to mention expertise and the usual costs of running a legitimate business.
The cost of TIME
Approaching it from a time standpoint, let’s imagine that you have hired a photographer who has work that you love. This photographer is traveling an hour to your destination to photograph your session. Here is an example of a time break down:
* session prep time (30 mins - 1 hour, includes equipment and back up equipment checks + vehicle checks)
* one hour travel time TO session
* 15-30 minutes prep time at client’s home
* 90 minutes-2 hours with client photographing subject
* one hour travel time FROM session
* 30-45 minutes uploading time from digital cards from camera to computer
* 30-45 minutes time spent backing up the original images
* 2-5 hours editing time to present you with a diverse gallery of edited images
* 1 hour prep time getting ready for ordering
* 2-3 hours time with client for ordering images
* 1 hour sorting through and checking order
* 30 minutes-1 hour prep time for delivery
* 30 minutes-1 hour getting order shipped
* any additional phone time or time needed for add on ordering, shipment issues, quality issues
In this example, the time spent per client can range from just under 13 hours to 19 hours - dependent on the photographer’s level of service. This is time dedicated only to ONE session. When the photographer charges $150-$300 for the photo shoot (aka SESSION FEE) you are not just paying for the two hours of session time, you are paying the photographer for 12-19 hours complete time for your session.The COSTS of Maintaining a Custom Photography Business:
Regarding equipment costs, a good quality professional camera with a selection of good optical quality lenses and digital storage mediums and computer set up can run from $10,000-$30,000 costs dependent on the photographer. Even though you can purchase a really good quality digital SLR for about $2100 there are still other costs related to photography. A good lens for portrait photography can run from $900 to $2500. A dependable computer system with software loaded for business and creative usage can run $2500 to $8000 dependent on the photographer.
Then come lab costs for specialty products. A good photographer knows the lab is integral to their success. Photography labs dedicated to the professional photographer often cost more and offer a range of products that allows the custom photographer to continually offer new, innovative products for you, the discerning client.
Discussion other costs of running a photography business could take awhile so we’ll skip many of the intricate details. There is of course much more: including costs of running the business, taxes, studio rental/mortgage if the photographer has ownership of a dedicated studio, vehicular costs, costs of advertising/marketing, costs of sample pieces that the photographer will likely bring to your session, etc.
APPLES to ORANGES to BANANAS:
Often times clients will mention to their photographer that X studio in the mall/department store only charges $19.99 for an 8×10 “sheet” or they may mention other things related to discount photography chains. The fact is those discount chains make their money on volume, not on customized 1:1 service. In February 2007 leased photography retail space by a rather well known discount department store that started in Arkansas closed down 500 of their portrait studios across the nation? The reason is simple, you cannot make money on 99¢ “professional” prints if you do not sell enough of them. Interestingly enough - those same studios that offer the loss leader packages often charge much much more for their a la carte pricing (as high as $40-50 for an 8×10). The whole reason the big department stores began offering portrait services in the first place was to get you, the savvy consumer, in through their door so that you could spend more money with them in other departments. Your “PORTRAITS” are considered the “loss leader”.
Going to a chain studio, as a consumer, you don’t have the benefit of 1:1 attention for 2 hours at your home where your child is allowed to explore, play and be comfortable in their home environment, nor do you get the experience that many custom photographers are known for or the lovely captures of natural expressions. You simply get a bare bones, “SAY CHEESE” experience. Keep this in mind when selecting a photographer.
REPUTATION/EXPERTISE of the PHOTOGRAPHER:
Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the photographer’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of lighting and the commitment put forth on their end to create a persona about their business that oozes professionalism. A great number of photographers go a very long time from the time that they purchase their first good camera to making money at the business of photography. Many photographers, when first starting out, rush in thinking that the business will be easily profitable in no time, how expensive could it be to get a camera and use it to create their dream? They often neglect to factor in the cost of business, the cost of equipment, software, back ups, etc..
Being of sound reputation, a better professional photographer knows that they must always reinvest in their business to create the reputation of being top notch. To create good work good equipment, reliable equipment, back up equipment is a necessity. The photographer who desires to be known as better/best/unparalelled reputation-wise knows that the most important thing they can do for their business is reliability and dependability. This is how reputations get built. Good work often is a wonderful side product of building that good reputation.
I hope this (lengthy) article helps shed some light on WHY a custom photographer is a better choice for your family’s memories. The photographs that are produced as a result of the professionalism and dedication that your photographer has will be cherished for a lifetime (or more) and great thought and consideration should be placed into hiring who is right for your family’s most precious investment.
Why Does Custom Photography Cost More?
February 27th, 2008 by admin
The digital revolution has brought amazing flexibility and ability to control various factors during the image taking and making process. Photographers, the hobbyist, the professional, the amateur all benefit from this ability to manipulate pixels. However, with flexibility comes a price. Digital camera equipment is still considerably more expensive when you factor in its’ lifespan, the need for additional resources for processing those images, the time it takes to get a usable image and the effort that goes into creating a work of photographic art.
We all know that you can go to the local Walgreen’s and pay a $1.99 for a print - as a client you may wonder why you may pay upwards of $50, $70, $90 for a custom photography print. Photographers hear this statement every once in awhile:
“How in the world can you charge $60 for an 8×10 if it costs me less than $2 to print at x store?”
The truth of the matter is the answer to this question is multifaceted. Much of the cost of a photographic print produced by a professional photographer has a lot to do with the time, equipment costs, artistic vision and reputation of the photographer not to mention expertise and the usual costs of running a legitimate business.
The cost of TIME
Approaching it from a time standpoint, let’s imagine that you have hired a photographer who has work that you love. This photographer is traveling an hour to your destination to photograph your session. Here is an example of a time break down:
* session prep time (30 mins - 1 hour, includes equipment and back up equipment checks + vehicle checks)
* one hour travel time TO session
* 15-30 minutes prep time at client’s home
* 90 minutes-2 hours with client photographing subject
* one hour travel time FROM session
* 30-45 minutes uploading time from digital cards from camera to computer
* 30-45 minutes time spent backing up the original images
* 2-5 hours editing time to present you with a diverse gallery of edited images
* 1 hour prep time getting ready for ordering
* 2-3 hours time with client for ordering images
* 1 hour sorting through and checking order
* 30 minutes-1 hour prep time for delivery
* 30 minutes-1 hour getting order shipped
* any additional phone time or time needed for add on ordering, shipment issues, quality issues
In this example, the time spent per client can range from just under 13 hours to 19 hours - dependent on the photographer’s level of service. This is time dedicated only to ONE session. When the photographer charges $150-$300 for the photo shoot (aka SESSION FEE) you are not just paying for the two hours of session time, you are paying the photographer for 12-19 hours complete time for your session.The COSTS of Maintaining a Custom Photography Business:
Regarding equipment costs, a good quality professional camera with a selection of good optical quality lenses and digital storage mediums and computer set up can run from $10,000-$30,000 costs dependent on the photographer. Even though you can purchase a really good quality digital SLR for about $2100 there are still other costs related to photography. A good lens for portrait photography can run from $900 to $2500. A dependable computer system with software loaded for business and creative usage can run $2500 to $8000 dependent on the photographer.
Then come lab costs for specialty products. A good photographer knows the lab is integral to their success. Photography labs dedicated to the professional photographer often cost more and offer a range of products that allows the custom photographer to continually offer new, innovative products for you, the discerning client.
Discussion other costs of running a photography business could take awhile so we’ll skip many of the intricate details. There is of course much more: including costs of running the business, taxes, studio rental/mortgage if the photographer has ownership of a dedicated studio, vehicular costs, costs of advertising/marketing, costs of sample pieces that the photographer will likely bring to your session, etc.
APPLES to ORANGES to BANANAS:
Often times clients will mention to their photographer that X studio in the mall/department store only charges $19.99 for an 8×10 “sheet” or they may mention other things related to discount photography chains. The fact is those discount chains make their money on volume, not on customized 1:1 service. In February 2007 leased photography retail space by a rather well known discount department store that started in Arkansas closed down 500 of their portrait studios across the nation? The reason is simple, you cannot make money on 99¢ “professional” prints if you do not sell enough of them. Interestingly enough - those same studios that offer the loss leader packages often charge much much more for their a la carte pricing (as high as $40-50 for an 8×10). The whole reason the big department stores began offering portrait services in the first place was to get you, the savvy consumer, in through their door so that you could spend more money with them in other departments. Your “PORTRAITS” are considered the “loss leader”.
Going to a chain studio, as a consumer, you don’t have the benefit of 1:1 attention for 2 hours at your home where your child is allowed to explore, play and be comfortable in their home environment, nor do you get the experience that many custom photographers are known for or the lovely captures of natural expressions. You simply get a bare bones, “SAY CHEESE” experience. Keep this in mind when selecting a photographer.
REPUTATION/EXPERTISE of the PHOTOGRAPHER:
Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the photographer’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of lighting and the commitment put forth on their end to create a persona about their business that oozes professionalism. A great number of photographers go a very long time from the time that they purchase their first good camera to making money at the business of photography. Many photographers, when first starting out, rush in thinking that the business will be easily profitable in no time, how expensive could it be to get a camera and use it to create their dream? They often neglect to factor in the cost of business, the cost of equipment, software, back ups, etc..
Being of sound reputation, a better professional photographer knows that they must always reinvest in their business to create the reputation of being top notch. To create good work good equipment, reliable equipment, back up equipment is a necessity. The photographer who desires to be known as better/best/unparalelled reputation-wise knows that the most important thing they can do for their business is reliability and dependability. This is how reputations get built. Good work often is a wonderful side product of building that good reputation.
I hope this (lengthy) article helps shed some light on WHY a custom photographer is a better choice for your family’s memories. The photographs that are produced as a result of the professionalism and dedication that your photographer has will be cherished for a lifetime (or more) and great thought and consideration should be placed into hiring who is right for your family’s most precious investment.
Friday, November 6, 2009
Christmas Card Examples
These are some beautiful templates I have to offer that I can customize with your beautiful family pictures in them at your request.
These are just a few of the templates I can offer for now, there are many many more! If you aren't sure you see something you like that catches your eye here, allow me the opportunity to show you the rest!
PRICING:
Holiday Package #1: $75
*(1) mini session (30 minutes of custom photos)
*(25) 4x8 slimline greeting cards with envelopes OR
*(20) 5x7 greeting cards with envelopes
*(1) unit of photos
Holiday Package #2: $110
*(1) mini session (30 minutes of custom photos)
*(50) 4x8 slimline greeting cards with envelops
OR
*(40) 5x7 greeting cards with envelopes
*(1) unit of photos
(One unit of photos includes one of the following):
*(1) 8x10
*(2) 5x7
*(4) 4x5
*(8) wallets
*(1) 5x7, (2) 4x5
*(1) 5x7, (4) wallets
**Contact me for further information on individual pricing for greeting cards**
***GREETING CARDS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SIZES UPON REQUESTS: 4x5, 4x6, 4x7, 4x8, 5x5, 5x6, 5x7, 5x7***
These are just a few of the templates I can offer for now, there are many many more! If you aren't sure you see something you like that catches your eye here, allow me the opportunity to show you the rest!
PRICING:
Holiday Package #1: $75
*(1) mini session (30 minutes of custom photos)
*(25) 4x8 slimline greeting cards with envelopes OR
*(20) 5x7 greeting cards with envelopes
*(1) unit of photos
Holiday Package #2: $110
*(1) mini session (30 minutes of custom photos)
*(50) 4x8 slimline greeting cards with envelops
OR
*(40) 5x7 greeting cards with envelopes
*(1) unit of photos
(One unit of photos includes one of the following):
*(1) 8x10
*(2) 5x7
*(4) 4x5
*(8) wallets
*(1) 5x7, (2) 4x5
*(1) 5x7, (4) wallets
**Contact me for further information on individual pricing for greeting cards**
***GREETING CARDS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE FOLLOWING SIZES UPON REQUESTS: 4x5, 4x6, 4x7, 4x8, 5x5, 5x6, 5x7, 5x7***
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Baby H Session
Beautiful baby H was over for a mini session today and Coltyn just adores here up & down. We haven't quite mastered the whole be gentle she's just a little girl thing with Coltyn yet, but we are working on it! Most importantly, baby H is a tough little girl who gives Coltyn grief right back, it's adorable watching the two of them play together =) Thanks for this opportunity to get some adorable shots of her tonight, smiling or not, she's absolutely beautiful! -M-
Monday, October 12, 2009
B & K Photo Session
I had such a blast with such a fun loving family yesterday. The kids are growing up so fast (I suppose that's just what kids do...) but it is still unfair! Time seriously flies, and I'm glad I can help catch a moment in this busy families life not to mention she's the greatest Aunt one could ask for! :) Thank you for this opportunity guys!! Enjoy your sneak peak =)
Ok I realize what is going on with the pictures being cut off, I've made a change in the html code somewhere and made a mistake. I've emailed some friends to see what their suggestions are on how to fix it! Always something ha ha! Hang in there bear with me the photos are also on facebook now since it isn't working 100% right now here.
Ok I realize what is going on with the pictures being cut off, I've made a change in the html code somewhere and made a mistake. I've emailed some friends to see what their suggestions are on how to fix it! Always something ha ha! Hang in there bear with me the photos are also on facebook now since it isn't working 100% right now here.
Friday, October 9, 2009
Monday, October 5, 2009
Nate
A photographer friend lost her son early yesterday morning. It is with a heavy heart and tired eyes that I greet you this morning and urge you that if you can help contribute, any amount would be greatly appreciated to help with his funeral expenses. I have decided to wait until the specific fund (should be today) information goes up to ask anyone I know to contribute. I'll keep you posted on here & and through e-mail about contributing. Let me know if your interested! Rest peacefully Nate and may God forever hold your sweet little smiling self in his arms. God bless you, and your family Nate!!
Friday, September 11, 2009
Jason & Donna
Thank you guys for being so patient with me! This last month has been rough up with the constant upgrades, to the new learning curve on a Mac, etc. etc. You guys are awesome and you truly were a wonderful family to photograph. It's not every day you can see a families love for each other without having any words spoken. I hope your as happy with your photos as I am with how they turned out. Thanks Guys!!
This post I've been playing w/ uploading to flickr to reduce the lost quality when uploading, still tinkering with things! :)
This post I've been playing w/ uploading to flickr to reduce the lost quality when uploading, still tinkering with things! :)
Saturday, September 5, 2009
Julie, Ashley & Kiddos
FINALLY! I am finally able to process & edit two photo sessions that were waiting first on me to figure out what was wrong w/ my laptop, why it crashed, then through the purchase of my new iMac... then waiting on the return & refund of the editing software I use for windows, and to get the editing software in the Mac version... then getting it all loaded, and all the add on's re downloaded & added back into the software... GEESH THESE PEOPLE HAVE BEEN WONDERFUL & PATIENT. Just so you all know, I'm back to the processing & editing process, I'm very HAPPY that I'm able to finally finish out these session's as I was starting to feel really bad.
Julie, Ashley, Titi & little baby Chino:
You guy's have been awesome & so patient through this upgrading period that was VERY unexpected. I appreciate it very much, and hope you find your sneak peek as exciting & rewarding as I have. Such beautiful faces!!
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Office Remodel
Is coming along quite nicely...we now have the filing cabinets in there, and are preparing this weekend to put the countertop in there, as well as finish the painting and hang the TV on the wall :) My new office chair came also and let me just tell you...it's a dream!
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
New Office Space
We are in the middle of painting around all the stuff that is waiting to be moved into their new homes (AKA the filing cabinets) but the cabinets wont be here until Wednesday at the earliest....I have such a wonderful amazing husband that knows how important a easily flowing workspace means to me. He came home from working OT last night and painted some more, there's only so many walls you can paint on while the other walls are wet, and you cant keep just moving stuff around when the other walls are wet...We got the countertops on Saturday, and they are beautiful. I've been taking progression pictures....I'll post them whenever its all done. I'm so excited & just wanted to let you all know what's going on why I may not post as often because of the workspace being limited (I'm working off of a card table haha!)
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
Frank & Sharon Family Pictures
Tonight I had the opportunity to photograph an awesome family, whose preparing to celebrate their parent's 50th wedding anniversary! What an accomplishment, fifty wonderful years of marriage...Congratulations to Frank & Sharon! These families were patient with me while I had them running here there and everywhere to catch that perfect...moment in time. I hope you guys enjoy your sneak peak! There will be more to come soon, thanks again guys for allowing me to take your photos!
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