Since the subject of photography is being brought up on multiple pages related to Fort Carson Army Wives, I just want to give some insight to the subject. This is not meant to start an argument, but it needs to be said. I am a photographer and this might not look professional, but I am willing to risk it because I have not been getting business from very many military wives since I most likely charge an “arm& a leg” But here it is. There is a reason some Photographers(most really) are charging more then 50-$100 on sessions.
I charge $250 for family sessions, this includes $25 for prints( I feel this is actually cheap). Here is what goes into my session- A consultation before the session, driving to and from each location. My session which lasts around 1-2 hrs. I come home and edit a ton of photos for a number of hrs, I upload photos to fb, my blog and my website. If the clients request sprints, I upload those and order them, once the prints/ cd is ready, I hand make cd covers and package all of the products- I drop those off to my client..I will then most likely stay in touch with my clients hoping for future sessions together. Lets not forget about the fact I may have paid a babysitter 1-2 times during this, and sales tax is included in my sessions.
I realize not everyone thinks they can afford this, well if photography is important( I know it isn’t for everyone) then any one can find a way to save money and budget this through out the year. I usually set aside a certain amount for 1 photo shoot a yr, so maybe $30 per month for example. From my experience this issue is way more common in the military wives world, which I am a part of. Honestly. If photography were no cheaper then $250 any where you go, then I would think everyone would value it a lot more. Photos are priceless, and I am only talking about the good ones of course. There are some really talented photographers in Colorado springs and they deserve a chance!I understand some photographers are just starting out, and not charging much. I was there once. Even then, they should value there time. I have found it rare for people to truly appreciate free.
I have to point out- I am a bargain hunter, my favorite place to shop is Goodwill. I get mad when the prices at Goodwill are to high…ya, so why am I complaining when I am a cheapo myself? I just believe some things are worth the extra money..
I find it sad that I don’t get a ton of military families as clients, because I have a lot to offer, and so do a lot of great photographers in town. I am really sad that there are no regulations in the photography world and it is just a free for all. I don’t think I am the best photographer by any means, but I do believe my time and work are worth every penny. It is really discouraging when I go onto the military pages and always see people looking for a cheap or free photographer… It is also discouraging when I have been doing this for almost 6 years and have to compete with people who are charging $50.
So I have finally spoke my mind, did it make me feel better? Not really, because I realize I probably won’t change anything. But it needed to be said.