I’ll admit it. Before I was a photographer, I thought that the price photographers charged was exorbitant.
And then I became one.
A photographer wears a lot of different hats. Business owner, designer, IT guru, marketing specialist, packager, and customer service agent…and photographer, just to name a few.
The photographer’s job cannot be done without equipment. Although camera technology is becoming more affordable, professional grade photography equipment is still quite expensive. Lenses, lights, hard drive space, computer, and back-up equipment, are just the beginning of equipment costs. Professional pictures require professional equipment. You’ll notice that I did not even mention the cost it takes to have the portrait printed. That’s because when it comes down to it, that costs are really minimal compared to everything else.
Photography is a behind-the-scenes kind of job. There is so much time that goes into each and every photo shoot. I spend between 6 and 15 hours on one photo shoot, depending on client needs. After our quick 1-2 hour photo session, my work is just beginning. This is why I refer to the typical “sitting fee” as a creative fee. There is so much more to a portrait session than the shooting time. Much of my time is dedicated to making your portraits look even better through editing. Check out my page of example pictures before and after they are edited to get a better idea of why this is important.
And don’t forget that this is a business! Although I would love to take pictures out of the goodness of my heart at a very low rate, I have to earn enough to stay afloat. If you want me around to take pictures for years to come, my prices need to be high enough to support that. Time is spent maintaining the books, website, client records, marketing, and a myriad of other business activities.
On top of this, I am a photographer who is always challenging myself: Educating, getting involved, practicing, learning.
Many photographers explain that the price is set to value their work and artistic/creative vision. I think this is another key component. You’d pay more for a portrait by Anne Geddes, right? It’s because her art represents who she is. But how do you determine what your art is worth? And, better yet, how do you explain that?
The price of a good photographer is based on all of the above. Equipment, client time, business time, growing time, and artistic value. Although equipment is expensive and contributes to the cost decision, it is my opinion that the photographer’s time is the main component in determining price.
Chain studios are able to charge less because they are exactly that, chain studios. (And, really, what is the artistic value of a chain studio?) Chain studios are in a unique position to serve a great number of clients, so they are able to charge less. They get you in, spend minimal time with you, take your money, and get you back out the door, not caring a wit whether they ever see you again. (Or if they do care, they don’t show it very well.)
This is not what I do. Every client I see gets personal attention. By the time you leave, I know you and you know me. This connection leads to a good picture taking experience and portraits that you can recognize yourself in. Consistently. Not just when you happen to get the “good photographer” at the chain studio.
Don’t get me wrong, the chain studio has it’s place. I certainly don’t think less of anyone who chooses to go there. Low prices plus coupons are a wonderful thing! If you need a quick set of 6 month pictures…they’re good for that. But if you want a photographer who cares about you and a positive experience that results in beautiful art for your walls and for your family, then I’m your gal.
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