Many people have a difficult time justifying the cost of one photographer over another. Why is that? The economy is a primary reason for the average person these days. Certainly you could rattle of three good reasons right now, but I want to show you where the differences are when you hire me to capture your portraits.
Here is a beautiful toddler and her mother took her to a reputable studio. She had under an hour to capture this active little girl – happy and hopefully smiling in a strange place. I dare not infringe on any copyrights here; I only use the image for illustrative purposes and a digital copy was obtained legally. You can probably guess the first image was the original image. The remaining images are artistic variations that I created and they give a different emotion with each. It helps if you cover the others and view one by one to get a better idea.
The second image received the “nuts and bolts” of my basic image processing for a portrait (not a proof, but a purchased image). The colors are beautiful and the skin slightly softened. The remaining two images I would call “Baby Blue” and “Chocolate Kisses” if I had to label them. They are two of infinite ways to create an artistic photograph.
The artistic effects don’t always stop there. Many times when I push the shutter I can almost envision the way I want to process that moment captured. I always have my favorites from a session and work on those first! I like variety and experimenting with new things, so I haven’t stuck to one “look” – or maybe I have and just didn’t notice. I really like the “cross processed” look, but it doesn’t always suit all types of photographs. You either view my work and love it or hate it. That’s what is so wonderful about photography.
Aside from the visible artistic differences, you’ll also find the location a key ingredient in a successful photography session. In particular, children are most comfortable at home, in the backyard, swinging at the park, or just sitting on mom’s lap. That’s why I adore on-location shooting – it’s natural, in a familiar surrounding, and the moments captured become real. Don’t assume you’ll get bad pictures if your grass isn’t green around your house.
Lastly, I look beyond a pose and capture life. Though the image above is cute in and of itself, it lacks something. Here is the same child not long later – in a comfortable environment with family. These are the everyday moments that tell a story and preserve memories. She isn’t posed or smiling, but there’s just something different about them.
I love the drool! You know she was in a teething stage!
The colors! Her hair, those eyes, lips, and pj's! And her concentrated gaze!
“Soapie”… your auntie loves you! xoxox’s
I hope you enjoyed the first “buzz” post. C’mon back and find out more next time around as I buzz a few more things in your ear!
