Photographer

Q. Describe the most common types of jobs you do for your clients.

A. Almost anything dealing with people. I've done portraits, weddings, headshots, public relations, events, movie stills, CD Covers, fashion, and recently evidence.

Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A. Before you call, have an idea of what exactly you want, or a direction. Investigate by getting referrals from friends. Know what your budget is so you can be realistic when you get the bids. Some Pros are more willing to work with you than you think.

Q. If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?

A. How can I get the same look? Well, the best advice, other than attending a specialty school, is to look at your pictures. If it is an image you would put on your wall, it's great! If you are really serious, photograph as much as you can as often as you can. Digital is cheap! I learned on film first!

Q. What important information should buyers have thought through before seeking you out?

A. When they need the pictures! Where and How they want them done! What is the budget?

Q. Why does your work stand out from others who do what you do?

A. I take the time to learn about my subject, whether it be a week or 2 minutes. I allow my mind and brain to work with my creative side to get what the subject is suppose to convey.

Q. What do you like most about your job?

A. The travel and meeting new people are some of the best parts of being a photographer!

Q. What questions do customers most commonly ask you? What's your answer?

A. Can I change or enhance some part of their face or product. I answer I will do the best lighting for your face or object, and the most realistic retouching, without going overboard,so that people see the best of you or your product.

Q. Do you have a favorite story from your work?

A. My favorite story is the bride and groom that were full of doubt. I shot the wedding, and they did not even want to look at the pics. They said their Uncle had a camera and covered it. I, of course, kept the deposit, and kept the photos in storage. Two weeks after the honeymoon, the bride called crying. The Uncle forgot film. I showed them the pictures, and they begged my pardon for doubting me. I just said,"As long as you are happy with my work and ethics, I am happy!" They even gave me a tip which I was not expecting!

Q. What do you wish customers knew about you or your profession?

A. Photography seems simple because of the new cameras out there. But don't be fooled. Practice so you will get the shots you really want. And for major events where you want positive memories, hire a Pro!!!!

Q. How did you decide to get in your line of work?

A. I was three years old and my Grandmother gave me a cartridge camera.

Q. Tell us about a recent job you did that you are particularly proud of.

A. A model shoot of a young girl, 16, who was terrified, then warmed up within 20 shots!! Then I couldn't get her to stop modeling! It was great!

Q. Do you do any sort of continuing education to stay up on the latest developments in your field?

A. I attend different types of workshops yearly, including portraiture and evidence.

Q. What are the latest developments in your field? Are there any exciting things coming in the next few years or decade that will change your line of business?

A. The latest has to do with speed of camera and efficiency in the computer retouching side. It can enhance my business.

Q. Describe your most recent project, what it involved, how much it cost, and how long it took.

A. The most recent project was a magazine cover. The cost is $1,500.00 plus expenses and it took two days!

Q. If you have a complicated pricing system for your service, please give all the details here.

A. Day rate plus expenses for Commercial and Advertising.
Headshots, Portraiture, Events, Weddings, etc. priced on project.

Q. If you were advising someone who wanted to get into your profession, what would you suggest?

A. School, workshops, and shoot til your fingers are sore!! Get the fear out of you!!

Q. Write your own question and answer it.

A. What is the hardest part of my profession? Not photographing every day!!