Why Hiring A Professional Photographer Is Important.

With the modern technology and advanced cameras on cellphones in today’s world, is a photographer really needed? Absolutely! Here are the reasons why hiring a professional to do the job is much needed.

• They have the skills.

So you know someone with a nice camera, but do they know how to use it properly? Having an expensive camera is not enough to take highquality photographs. Most folks do not realize what it takes to adjust settings based on exposure s, lighting, and other technical aspects of their equipment. A camera won’t automatically take good shots for you. It is a talent learned through experience and training.

• They use Professional equipment.

This is always a given bonus. It’s more than just owning a downright expensive camera. Sure, the camera starts at typically $1,000. Photography gear in itself is about $500 (on the low side). But with modern technology, photographers are always looking for an upgrade every other year. Next up is a lens, starting price of those is easily another $750, and that’s on the cheap end! A camera also needs a flash, most photographers have more than just one. Then the essentials: backdrops, tripods, Lightroom computer software, memory cards, lights, a studio, and so forth. The list can go on and cost thousands!

• Let them orchestrate the posing.

Especially large crowds. It is easier said than done, but most people’s attention span and patience is usually small. You will find yourself exhausted and frustrated with a lack of posing ideas. We perform these in a timely manner and always offer suggestions for new poses.

• It is their job.

Skip trying to find a friend or relative to do the job. This means more hassle for you, and missed moments for them. Imagine a wedding with a friend or family member doing the photography. How will they eat, dance, drink, and mingle? That would not be a pleasant experience for them. Hiring a pro guarantees you they are solely doing this for you.

• They know how to edit properly.

You want a ‘wow’ factor with your final images. Professional photographers own different systems to edit and retouch photos properly. The last thing you want is for your pictures to appear cheesy. We are artists and have the skills to retouch uneven skin tones, brighten smiles and eyes, place overlays, exposures, contrast, softening, and removing distractions. Professional photographers can be underrated. It’s not for the faint of heart and requires dedication, late nights, and passion. Of course, there are plenty of ways to save money in life, but don’t skimp out on a skilled expert. Invest and be satisfied with high quality results!

How Do You Prepare For Your Session.

More than often, I get asked the typical question, “So how should I prepare for my photography session?” This is a topic I could give answers to all day. Instead, I broke it down to a few must knows. Here we go:

• Plan your outfit. Sounds easy, but you would be surprised at the outfit choices I have witnessed. Make sure they make sense with the location or scene. You want to be comfortable in whatever you select. Show off the best version of you, but don’t be scared to be a little extra! Add accessories for more of a glam effect. Sometimes I use accessories, such as hats, sunglasses, or bracelets, as props. Plan out 2 varieties ( or more, depending on how long you booked your photographer for) and bring these with you.

• As I stated before, go for the best version of you! The week of your photo session have your hair and nails done. Having a professional do these will ensure good results. You wouldn’t want to risk having your hair destroyed right before your session, would you?

• Bring props. Depending on your type of shoot, make sure to incorporate something fitting. This could be a bottle of wine shared on a first date between you and your partner, a onesie you bought for the little one you are expecting, or a ‘Save The Date’ sign! The options are endless so let your creativity shine!

• Most importantly, have fun. Make this a family day or spouse day date! Go for movies and shakes afterward and turn this into an enjoyable outing. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready the day of and relax! It will turn out beautifully.

What To Wear For Your Photo Session.

Do Not Match, Coordinate Instead! You have the session booked, and the location picked. But what in the world are you and/or your family going to wear? I love it when my clients ask me for an opinion or tips. It can be a struggle to figure out outfits with your family that are appealing.

• Begin with choosing a color palette, not matching colors. Set the outfit choices based on this color scheme. It doesn’t have to be difficult – light or dark, choose a broad theme, and go from there. This will ensure each family member retains their unique style while looking good as a unit. The point is for your family to fit together and not stick out in a bad way in a photograph. Not every color fits or works for every person! Just relax, and above all else, be comfortable. The emotion in your photos is essential to everyone looking right.

When Will I Get My Photos?

Our current turn around time is 7 to 10 days (for digitals). This may increase during spring and holiday seasons as more people get their photographs taken during these times. If you order prints, canvas prints, or cards (holiday, save the date, invites, etc.) the turn around time will depend on the print lab we contract with. Those will be shipped directly to you from the print lab.

So How Many Changes of Clothes Can I Bring?

Some people bring one additional outfit to change into during the session. We have a changing tent to minimize the time you need for changing. If you bring more outfits, keep in mind of how long you booked the photographer for.

We See That You Don’t Do Weddings. Why Not?

We are a small, family run business. We do not have the staff to shoot weddings for an entire day. We can do small events (such as retirements, birthdays, baby showers, and other smaller events), just contact us for more information on event photography.