Sunday, February 5, 2012

Changes in 2012

Wow! I can't believe it's already February 2012 and I haven't posted this year! Sorry about that. It's been crazy these past few weeks, but I'll try to keep up as of now. Things have definitely slowed down since the holiday season ended, which I expected. It's nice and heartbreaking at the same time. I've been able to focus on getting other things done around the house but I miss my families. There have been big changes to the business as of the new year. First of all, I have a new WEBSITE! It's small and humble, but I love it. Feel free to check it out! http://shelleyraehurdphotography.vpweb.com/


There have also been some changes to the pricing of sessions. The biggest question I receive from potential clients, is pricing. Frankly, a good portrait is *priceless*. Being able to free a moment in time and forever keep and remember life as it is/was is amazing. But, when it comes down to it, everyone needs to charge a fee to make a living at a business. Many people think, "I can just go to (insert big name photo chain here) and spend alot less" or "why do photographers charge so much when it only takes them 1 hour to phtoogragh my session? I'm not paying $75 an hour!" So I broke it down for everyone to understand what our "hour" of work really includes:
The average session takes a minimum of 10 hours to complete.
-2 hours for session (including travel to/from location and actual photographing)
-30 minutes to upload images from camera to computer and into editing programs
-2 hours to sort through all images to keep best shots
-5 hours (minimum!) for editing
-30 minutes to upload images to CD software and burn disc
-1 hour to upload images to online albums and blogs
Also includes cost of CDs and cases, mailing cases and postage, editing software, equipment, etc.
That averages out to $7.50 an hour. Most of us would not work for $7.50 an hour. So is your photographer really charging too much? No.
There has also been a change in what's included in your session. Session fees cover all sessions including maternity, newborn, children, couples, pets, and families** and everything in between! Session fee is due at time of session. Travel and expenses must be provided for any location more than 30 miles from Warrens. **Family fee covers up to 4 people. Add $5 for each additional person (not including pets).
Session Fee- $75
-Up to 2 hours of time
-High resolution disc of images with full printing release. CDs include all images in Full color, Black & white, Sepia and select images with Effects
-Unlimited outfit changes
-Unlimited captures
-Free 8x10 image of your choice
-Free 4x6 print of each image (in your choice of color, b&w, sepia, or effect -- if applicable -- or a mixture chosen by me)
Senior Sessions- $175
-Up to 2 hours of time
-High resolution disc of images with full printing release. CDs include all images in Full color, Black & white, Sepia and select images with Effects
-2 8x10s & 40 wallets of your choice Free
-4x6 proof print of each image
-Unlimited outfit changes
-Unlimited captures
Attention Military Members!
Any current member of the United States military (any branch) will receive $10 off your session fee. If spouce or parent is currently deployed, a disc of images and 5x7 collage print will be mailed to them.


There have also been some changes to the wedding photography aspect of the business. Choosing a photographer for your wedding is one of the most important things you can do because after the day is all through, your photos provide a lasting memory of your special day. There are now two different options for wedding photography. Both packages require a $250 non-refundable*** deposit to hold your date. Total payment must be made before or on the day of the wedding. Travel and/or lodging expenses must be provided for any location more than 30 miles from Warrens.
All Day Package - $1000
-Engagement session
-Coverage up to 12 hours
-High resolution disc with full release
-Complimentary disc for each set of parents (if needed)
-Six standard* print sheets
-4x6 print of each image
Half Day Package - $650
-Engagement session
-Coverage up to 5 hours
-High resolution disc with full release
-Complimentary disc for each set of parents (if needed)
-Three standard* print sheets
-4x6 print of each image
***Non-refundable deposit protects the photographer and client. It will only be considered for return if photographer is unable to attend wedding due to unforeseen circumstances. Under no other circumstances will deposit be returned.
Please let me know if you have any questions about any of these changes. Thanks so much for your continued business and for allowing me to capture your beautiful family!