sonia'Z eye photography

Serves San Antonio, TX

35244

Hired 294 times

Not yet available

13 years in business

$200

4.9

This pro accepts payments via Cash, Credit card, Square cash app, and Venmo.

Next Service

Hours

Sun 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Mon 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Tues 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Wed 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Thurs 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Fri 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Sat 8:00 am - 8:00 pm

Credentials

Background Check

Sonia Jackson
Completed on 6/20/2021

Introduction

I believe that pictures tell a story. My goal is to capture the personality and essence of my models and subjects. I am an artist and approach everything I do with an eye to detail. I am different because I offer copyright-free digital images rather than print packages. I work with other professionals such as hair & makeup artists and videographers to bring you the best package prices for you your needs. I am passionate about my art and committed to your complete satisfaction. I make portrait sessions fun (even for the reluctant model) and my photo sessions are quick and efficient for those who have time constraints. The people in front of my camera are important. Great pictures are a team effort. A blend of their ideas and mine. My goal is to capture each person's unique style and personality. Sometimes people will ruin your Kodak moment, or there is unavoidable background scenery in candid photo shots... I am skilled with editing software and I edit your photos for maximum appeal. It's part of the service I provide because I take pride and pleasure in my craft and I want to provide you with the best pictures possible. I love working with people. I love photos and the memories that they preserve. I am thrilled that I can help others record their special moments. Portrait photography is definitely one of my favorite types of photos because I can show my models how they look through my eye. It is gratifying to see the joy or awe that my pictures can bring them. Taking great photographs is a challenge in that I am constantly learning new techniques. Finding new ideas and perspectives is exciting.

Q&A

What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?

I do have a pricing system based on the number of hours of the photo shoot and the amount of editing work that may be needed after. Different people have different incomes, however, and I like to be flexible in order to bless those who would like professional service without breaking the bank.

What is your typical process for working with a new customer?

I like to have a consult, either in person or over the phone, in order to find out exactly what the customer wants and expects and to see if I am the right fit for their needs.

What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?

I have been taking pictures all of my adult life. I research books and the internet for techniques and ideas or to answer questions that come up. I am taking an online course from the New York Institute of Photography. My artistic talent manifests in many ways from drawing to sand sculptures and I pay attention to details. Details are everything.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I have a rich and varied family history and am so grateful to have photo memories of all of it. The oldest picture I have was taken of my grandfather in 1906. I am very visual and photographs fulfill that passion. I started taking pictures at my daughter's soccer games. I wanted to share all of the pictures that I would take and people told me that I should start charging for the pictures I take. So, I went into business.

What types of customers have you worked with?

I have met and worked with a variety of people. If there is a photography opportunity or need, I am always up for the challenge. I was recently asked to take pictures for Las Palapas, a Mexican food restaurant. The owner needed both digital and prints of different plates that the restaurant serves. I had never done food photography so I researched techniques, tips and pictures. I met with him and looked at the lighting and took a few initial practice shots to make sure that I would be able to give him excellent pictures to use. I am pleased to say, the pictures turned out fabulous!

Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?

My favorite projects are portraits. Especially of high school seniors. They are almost finished with school and are on the threshold of the rest of their lives. I have 2 favorites. One is a girl who brought props and was enthusiastic about her portraits. We took a little over 2 hours because we had a lot of fun with different outfits and styles. The other is a boy who was very easy going and cooperative. He didn't see himself the way that I did and it was marvelous to show him his GQ side.

What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?

People may not realize that the way they relate to their photographer will make a difference in their results. A friend told me the other day that she doesn't look good in photos because she feels so stiff and unnatural. I told her that having your pictures taken should be fun! She asked if that really makes a difference. Absolutely! If you are comfortable and at ease your pictures will be relaxed and candid, even when they are posed. Another issue that I have run across is that the photographer, while skilled, didn't listen to what their model wanted. It is not enough to be skilled with the camera and settings. Does your photographer LISTEN to YOU? or are they going to insist on doing it all their way. As a professional, I have experience and ideas but some of the best pictures that I have taken have come from the person who is in front of my camera. In this age of digital media, there is no film to waste and I tell people, we'll try it out and if it doesn't turn out, we can just delete it! Is your photographer passionate and excited about the shoot? Do they see possibilities? Are they flexible and willing to try new ideas? Having expensive equipment is useless without an eye for great pictures. Ask if they view photography as a artistic expression.

What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?

Sometimes, you can just take the pictures yourself. I heard once that the best camera is the one you have with you. I have seen excellent pictures taken on an iPhone. If pictures are important to you consider these points: WHAT do you want as an end result? What are you trying to capture? Are professional results important to you? Are you willing to pay for professional results? How much are you willing to pay? As with anything, you can overpay. To some, the photographer's name is just as important as the picture itself. Research, interview, read reviews, talk to friends. Be comfortable with the person who is holding the camera for you.