When you start shopping around for a professional photographer the prices can sometimes seem quite daunting. What very few consumers realize though is that there is a lot more to photographing your event than just clicking a button at the right time!
So what are you paying for when hiring a professional photographer?
1. Time is money. Just like any other professional, a photographer needs to put in the hours to get the job done. This includes the consultation, traveling to and from the location, shooting the photos, editing and processing the orders. You’d be surprised at how long it takes to get the end result that is finally delivered to you. Once I am done shooting the photos, it’s not as simple as downloading the images and delivering them to you, I spend hours to process the files, convert it to the correct file type as well as make sizing and color adjustments to make each image pop. By the time I deliver your photos, I spend on average 4-5 hours on your session!
2. Equipment is expensive. Even though this is a very small part of why photographers charge the prices they do, it’s important to remember that quality equipment plays an important role in being able to produce the high quality photos. Professional equipment not only allows for the production of high quality images, it also gives me the ability to work in areas with less than favorable lighting conditions or at venues where using a flash is prohibited. My camera bag has many $$$$ in it at every shoot! ;)
3. I have spent years acquiring a very specific skill. Photography, like any other profession, requires experience and specific skills. From knowing what lighting and camera settings to use, to knowing how to pose people and help them feel comfortable in front of the camera. I have spent hundreds of hours doing classes and making sure I am always getting better for you! I don’t rush the editing process either, it takes time to produce the desired result and turn your photo into a work of art that you’ll proudly want to display in your home!
4. It’s still a business. It a small business, and my full-time job! Besides feeding my kids and paying the bills, there are many costs I have ever month to keep my "doors" open like website costs, subscriptions for editing software, upkeep of equipment and so many other things!
So there it is, the nitty-gritty!! 😉 It has taken me years to feel confident in pricing, but at the end of the year, my commitment is to you and providing the best services I can!
Love,
Kate
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