What should the customer know about your pricing (e.g., discounts, fees)?
Because my work is so varied, from photographic art, relational family and event photography, corporate, architectural photography among other categories, each type of client requirements are very different. So I have found it most fair and beneficial to provide quotes based on specific needs.
What is your typical process for working with a new customer?
My first step is always to get the most information from my client about what they feel their needs and wants are - so I can offer ways that I can help them with their goals as much as possible. Then we can work together on the logistics for the most successful and fun photography session. Following the photography, I try to get the created images on-line quickly, as clients typically are excited to see them right away. This typically requires only 24 hours or so. Then, together, we take it from there if they require any further services, such as special artwork, finished photographs for display or gift-giving, etc. Many of my clients like to purchase all the images on a CD or delivered immediately on-line with an unlimited copyright release.
What education and/or training do you have that relates to your work?
My abilities to give meaningful images to my clients has become more and more successful with over 38 years of full-time photography experience. My formal education is, primarily, from the 'College of Art and Design' in Minnesota, with the 'Craftsman of the Year' award for the state of Minnesota, and many course studies at the 'Winona School of Professional Photography' in Illinois. I consider my education to always be ongoing.
How did you get started doing this type of work?
In high school I took an extra-curricular course in photography. My immediate success with many awards served as confirmation and I have never looked back.
What types of customers have you worked with?
I feel deeply that the value of what I can provide others keeps me from steering my business toward only what some may consider 'the elite'. I've photographed huge country club weddings, to a wedding actually held in the bride's parents garage. Commercial photography for Fortune 500 companies to start-up companies with one employee/owner.
Describe a recent project you are fond of. How long did it take?
To capture a beautiful expression of an autistic child or, just recently, a down-syndrome adult, is both extremely gratifying and humbling. It may take a bit longer, but I don't consider it requiring any more patience - maybe just a few more additional exposures from my camera. I don't consider any person to be more, or less photogenic than another. I think most folk don't enjoy being in front of a camera (unless it's with a selfie-stick). So it is always so gratifying to me to make beautiful images of a reluctant or self-conscious client that I know they will inwardly be proud of. I take that as my responsibility.
What advice would you give a customer looking to hire a provider in your area of work?
I would advise someone to seek out a seasoned professional whose goal is to serve in a very personable way. Whether you're planning the recording of a great event like your wedding, or the cherished images of your 1st infant, stress always seems to be an uninvited guest. So look for someone who has experience in handling many situations in a stress-relieving and enjoyable manner. Not necessarily the least expensive or the person with the biggest lens on their camera. Try to think of the long-term goals.
What questions should customers think through before talking to professionals about their project?
Think about the time of day as this can play a big role in determining when to do the photography - whether it's your family on the beach, or photographing images of real estate. Quite often, early morning or early evening offers optimal lighting. Also, don't forget to consider all the participants' schedules, from nap times of the little ones, to other appointments you may have. Schedule enough time to be ready and as stress free as possible.
Another important piece of the puzzle that an experienced photographer should be able to help with is clothing selections. I make suggestions that will keep the main attention on the loving relationships or character of the subjects, not on the attire, unless the outfit ,in itself, is speaking to an important aspect of the personality.
