Update

 

It’s taken me a really long time to come to this conclusion, and at first I was very conflicted over it; but I’m not anymore. I will no longer be providing photography services for friends unless it is something we’ve already spoken about, I approach you, or it is TFCD (any of my free photo shoots, like “Trash the Dress” and artistic portfolio work). There is a large part of me that may decide in the future to change my thoughts on this, but due to recent (and past) events, I can no longer put myself on the line like this.

It seems that a lot of my friends and people who know me through my family assume that this is just a hobby. Photography is something I do, not my job. My biggest question is why would you think that? Is it because I don’t own four walls and a roof and slap it with my name on it? I have never wanted to be a studio photographer. I will tell you that until the day I die, because it’s the truth. I prefer natural light and natural environments. I may own a studio one day to do work I choose to use that setting for, but I will never force it. I don’t think anyone has the right to disregard my photographic services as a hobby just because I don’t own a studio, to do so is ignorance.

The biggest reason that this “hobby” illusion that friends and family seem to have does so much harm is that they think I do my services for free, and the idea that I charge is outlandish. Here’s the thing, guys… no one gets anything for free. You get what you pay for in any walk of life, so I’m not really sure where this idea came from. You don’t go to an advertising firm and ask them to build you a marketing kit for free because you know one of their designers. You don’t go into the store and expect your stuff for free or discounted because you know the cashier. I honestly don’t see why you would come to me, telling me you want me to photograph you or an event, and then look at me like I’m stupid when I give you a quote. My prices are always negotiable, but a price is still there.  I dare you to go find another professional photographer (however you define that term) that will photograph your wedding, do the countless hours of editing work, and discount all print services because you're a friend.

I really don’t want this to be misconstrued as me being bitter or irrational over the situation, but I've been working on constantly improving my photographic skills on my own since I was 14 years old. I've got a really strong portfolio to demonstrate those skills, and several happy clients. I understand that things come up and finances are always a concern. After countless friends have told me they want me to photograph their weddings/newborns/families and then backed off without another word, leaving me in the dark, or not paying me after I’ve done the work (yes, it has happened) I honestly feel this is the smartest decision for me at this time.

Again, if I have already talked about photographing you and we’ve made plans – do not worry. This isn’t directed at you.

If me photographing you or an event you have planned is something you seriously want you may contact me on a professional only level. This means that down payments will be made, contracts will be signed, and breaking plans will result in a loss of that down payment. Serious inquiries only for further information.

-Sara