Maybe you found someone who will give you a two-hour Asheville photo shoot and all the digital files for $250 and that sounds like quite a deal. Let me tell you why it may not be in your best interest to hire that photographer.

We call them “shoot and burn photographers”. They shoot and shoot and shoot because they are SO cheap that everyone wants to hire them but is that really a good idea?

CHEAP PHOTOGRAPHERS IN ASHEVILLE ARE MOST LIKELY BRAND NEW

They don’t feel confident enough in their work to charge what is needed to sustain a business. What this means for you is that they have very little experience.

I’m not able to offer you this same deal, but what I can offer you, will work out much better in the long run. I can offer you digital files and gorgeous products, a wonderful experience and fantastic imagery! I’ve been at this a long time and I know that if we spend some time together, I will be able to capture amazing photos of you and your family. There will be so many good ones, it will be difficult to choose, and you’ll want them all!

If you’re going to take the time to plan your shoot, pick out the perfect outfits and take time out of your busy day, you want to make sure it’s worthwhile. Let me point out some reasons why cheaper isn’t better.

MY BUSINESS RUNS LIKE A WELL OILED MACHINE

I’ve been an entrepreneur for over twenty five years and I can tell you that it takes a long time to work out the bugs in any business. I’m able to offer excellent customer service and will keep you informed, educated and prepared for your photo session. You’ll receive helpful emails, digital magazines, and a phone consultation before the session. If you’re local, you’ll get an in-person ordering appointment after the session or an online gallery for your out-of-towners. You’re investing time and money so you want to make sure your photographer provides you with a great experience, as well as amazing photos and products.

The new photographer may be a hobbyist or just opening her business so she likely won’t have good practices put into place yet.

I KNOW MY CAMERA LIKE THE BACK OF MY HAND

During the photo shoot, a newbie will be very focused on the technical aspects of the shot. There’s a lot that goes into making a properly exposed and composed photo. Tricky lighting conditions, color casts and changing environments are a challenge.  It takes most photographers years and years to become good at this.

Since it will take most of her concentration to manage the technical aspects, a newbie won’t be able to give your family the attention that’s needed. 

I, on the other hand, have been a photographer for over 25 years and the mechanisms of the shot are secondary to me. Instead my attention and focus will be on you and your family. I will give you some direction so you know what to do, but not so much direction that you look stiff and posed. Over the years, I’ve gathered a lot of prompts, movements and games that I will suggest as a way for your family to relax and have fun together. 

PHOTOSHOP IS A COMPLEX PROGRAM

After the session, when I’m back at my computer looking at all your beautiful faces, I’ll be able to turn your images into works of art with my Photoshop magic. I was a Photoshop instructor for many years and have mastered this highly complex software. I will spend hours and hours enhancing your images and will work on them one picture at a time.

I’m able to add beautiful sunshine even on overcast days. I can erase boo boos, create perfect colors and skin tones that help you to look your best. Most new photographers won’t even use Photoshop. They will give you “straight out of the camera” images.

CHEAP ISN’T BETTER

In this digital age, many people have picked up a camera and are attempting to run a business but just keep in mind that you get what you pay for. They might be able to offer “cheap” but will it be any better than what you can take with your iPhone camera? Wouldn’t you rather have gorgeous works of art  like the photos  below? If so, give me a call. Let’s chat about your family’s photo session.