Martika Photography, LLC

Serves Chicago Heights, IL

35244

Hired 292 times

2 employees

15 years in business

$200

5.0

This pro accepts payments via Apple Pay, Cash, Check, Credit card, Google Pay, PayPal, Venmo, and Zelle.

Next Service

Hours

Sun Closed

Mon 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Tues 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Wed 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Thurs 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Fri 8:00 am - 7:00 pm

Sat 9:00 am - 4:00 pm

Credentials

Business Verified

Martika Photography, LLC verified

Background Check

Martika Gartman
Completed on 5/31/2019

Introduction

My images speak for themselves, but I think I have an artist's eye. I am a Chicago area based Headshot Specialist. DRIVE A LITTTLE SAVE A LOT! I give a pre-shoot portrait tip sheet and I put people at ease with me, my camera and themselves. Some of my on location headshot clients include, Comcast Business, United Airlines, Eco-Labs, SCJohnson, Iron Mountain & CareerBuilder. I want people to act like themselves when I photograph them. It makes it easier for them to smile and for me to catch them at their best. I want folks to have an enjoyable photo session and if it is an event, I want to go with the flow and add to rather than detract from the fun of the event. I enjoy people and it shows in my work! Be sure to see my lifestyle, fashion and advertising site. I am also a Member of the Professional Photographer's of America and the American Photographic Artists professional associations. Plus I give a portrait tip sheet prior to our session so you can be fully prepared! I am prompt and responsive. Call me if you have any questions. I look forward to working with you to exceed your expectations! I love people and I really enjoy bringing out the best in their imagery and helping them to feel good about themselves or their product. I want the process to be as painless as possible.

Q&A

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

My pricing varies from type of job and depends on the number of final files required or the length of the shoot. I will probably not be the cheapest photographer in the group. I use Canon professional camera and lenses and top quality Profoto professional studio lighting. These are not inexpensive pieces of equipment. I am not a hobbyist. I have invested tens of thousands of dollars in my professional training and education. Additionally I have a backup camera in case of damage, theft or malfunction. I am also insured and I have a good online reputation. Sometimes in life you do get what you pay for.

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

We chat by phone or if needed in person to discuss the job, agree on the scope of the shoot and pricing, verify it in writing and go from there!

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

I have been shooting single lens reflex cameras since about 1979. I was on the yearbook staff in junior high, high school and in college. I shot for my university. Although I am largely self taught, I am a member of the Professional Photographers of America and the American Photographic Artists Associations. These are professioanl societies for photographers. i have attended their conference. I also attended Shutterfest each year and I have attenden courses at Calumet Photographic and Progear and Procam. I do online education as well. This year I have been studying with renown LA Photographer Kevin Michael Schmidt in Chicago and in LA and I have invested $8,000-$10,000 in education this year and I am continuing with Kevin as my mentor in the next year as well. I am one of his top students. In January and February, I spent a week in California meeting with Kevin several times. He presented my portfolio at a Canon event in Coasta Mesa in front of a group of 70 photographers. At this point I have invested more in my photographic education than I did for my legal education.

How did you get started doing this type of work?

I have been an avid photographer since I was about 10. I started shooting manual cameras in the 80s. I won statewide awards in Virginia when I was in High School and Junior High. I served on yearbook staff in college and over 100 images of mine were printed in my Freshman yearbook. I also won a campus wide contest for the opening section of the yearbook in 1984. After a 20 year career in law and politics, I was encouraged by one of my artist friends to do something with the talent God had given me. She is an interior designer and an artist, I listened to her and here I am. I guess she was right and I am glad that I did!

What types of customers have you worked with?

United Airlines, CareerBuilder, HP, Health-Kick, Comcast, Aqua Magazine, Westmont Acura, Arvato Bartlesmann, Intersportnet, Taylor for Allstate, Evenhouse CPAs, Hinsdale Theraputics, Elm Plaza Pharmacy, Hinsdale Furriers, Zehman Homes, The Westmont Chamber of Commerce & Tourism Bureau, The Golden Basket, iDesign Salon, Trinity Schools, New Life Church, Trinity Pres., State Farm, George Allen, Susan Allen. Evolve Vacation Rentals, F8 Real Estate and many more individuals and businesses. I have photographed governors, Fortune 500 Companies families, babies, children, teens, pets and more.

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

I was just in West Hollywood in early February. I photographed a Top Model there for his portfolio. It was challenging finding the right light since it was so late in the afternoon and after sunset but we made it work and we got some amazing shots right there in his neighborhood! It took a couple of hours we shot in various locations within walking distance and changed clothes a lot.

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

I recommend speaking with a photographer to get a sense of their personality before hiring them. Also, then try to meet them in person if you like what they have shown you on their web site. Otherwise on this site, check their online reputation here on Thumbtack and externally.

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

First, be realistic about your budget. If you want a true professional photographer who has invested tens of thousands of dollars on equipment and training for $50 per hour that's not realistic. We have overhead, insurance, maintenance, website fees etc. Check to see that the work shown on the website is the precise type you need and that their quality is consistent with your needs. Sometimes in life you do get what you pay for.