What to Expect from Professional Photography Services

What Defines a Professional Photographer?

Have you noticed how many people you see lately with monster cameras hanging around their necks? That’s because digital imaging technology has advanced to such a degree that great cameras can be had for under $1,000 and pictures that satisfy most can be taken even on digital cameras.

While high-end digital cameras have become affordable and widely available to many enthusiasts, those carrying a “cool” camera are not necessarily trained professionals.  I’m sure you’ve seen an image that causes you to have a “wow” moment? You can easily see the difference in a picture taken by a true professional from one taken by a casual shooter. A professional image will have great lighting, great composition, and evoke great emotion.

Before you entrust someone with capturing your special moments, ensure they have the experience and skill to deliver on their promise.

Some things to look for as you seek out a professional:

• Demonstrated skill at professional photography which can be seen via an online portfolio. Look for images in the area you’re interested in; for example, if you’re interested in a family group photo or a soft magical image of your newborn infant, look for images in that specialized area.
• A professional presence on the Web.
• Affiliation with professional organizations.
• Evidence of continuous training in the latest techniques and technologies.

What is Custom Photography?

Custom photography is about …

• Quality - quality imagery that transcends time
• Vision - a shared vision between you and the photographer
• Convenience - your home, other location, or in the studio.
• Scheduling – no delayed appointments; no lines; no crowds
• Choices -  formally posed or more contemporary casual and fun; you choose the style and mood
• Quality Time – time to explore and experiment with one-on-one, personalized attention, including a pre-shoot consultation
• Professionalism - a professionally trained photographer, not a casual shooter with an expensive tool
• Specialized services – custom digital artwork and post-production to achieve the desired look, including re-touching and special effects

What Goes Into Custom Photography and Why It Costs More

Many clients wonder why custom photography is so expensive. It’s a great question that is easy to answer when you understand what’s involved with being a professional photographer.

Two Types

There are two types of photography studios; big box and boutique. They differ in volume vs. quality; bargain vs. investment; loss leader vs. primary focus; and WalMart vs. Nordstrom. Custom photography follows the boutique model, focusing on quality and service.

Why Does it Cost More?

Time – an average of 12-18 hours is dedicated to the making of each client’s images from pre-session consultation to final delivery
• Expertise – professional photography requires a commitment to continual education and keeping pace with evolving techniques and technology
• Equipment – although the cost of film is no longer involved, today’s digital equipment (camera bodies, lenses, computers, and software) is sophisticated, expensive, and the technology rapidly changes.
• Development – professionals use labs dedicated to state-of-the-art technology for archival-quality digital printing

Knowing this, it’s easy to understand why the business of being a custom photographer is much different than what you get with a “$9.95 special” strip mall studio. Hopefully, this information will help you to choose the photographer that’s right for you.