[Unclebob]

I charge 200.00 an hour, edit about 30 images and give them copy-right and all. Because frankly, by the time I’ve spent a hour out in the sun–upside down trying to get their child to smile. I’m beyond finished with seeing their faces. Does that make me horrible? I’d rather then just have the release, print them where they want, and be done.

 

This is also I should point out, a hobby of mine that just happens to pay. If it were my career and main income then I think I’d feel a little different. But for a quick 800 bucks in one weekend. I’m happy to just edit, share, and “release” out into the wild.

 

And for all of those that don’t feel the same, let’s keep in mind that nearly every ‘mass market’ studio is going under. Sears released a huge thing where they were shutting down their studios, Walmart as well. Because yeah, they had an 8.00 sitting fee but charged out the end just for the prints. My clients like to make snapfish books because it’s easy, user friendly, and they can save time and money by having the album all at once.

 

My husband gave me the best advise when I was trying to come up with a price for my quick hobby that I enjoy (but also want to get paid for), and he asked me how valuable my time is. So keep that in mind as well.

[Unclebob]

I think you have a rather great career ahead of you. It seems you have mastered the art of background lighting, but I would suggest you work on lighting the skin of your subjects.

[Unclebob]

I guess I’m just so jaded when I see ‘artsy’ photography that it’s hard for me to appreciate the true artful method of it all. All I do now is take images to make money and support my family, but I do have to say it was refreshing to see some of your stuff and see how you do still love it as an art form. However, with that being said, let me give you my jaded “if you want to make some money at this” advise.

 

I went straight to your portraits file as that, m’dear, is where the bang is.

 

Slow down and take your time. Check your light meter. Don’t pose shots. (they can go to Sears for that) Capture that moment. Make sure to adjust your ISO accordingly.

 

You really have a great eye and I guess my advise will only matter where you plan to take your business someday.

[Unclebob]

I took my first photo with an old Canon 35mm Rebel that was given to me by my mother, of my younger sister throwing a large oversize teal ball around the yard. There was something so warm and heartfelt when I got the film developed of my sibling who I cherish and the moment of her childhood I didn’t just take a snapshot of, but an actual portrait of her youth.

 

I’ve been an addict ever since.

[Unclebob]

Kick em in the knees!

[Unclebob]

I think you are doing just fine, but keep in mind that editing things a little too much sometimes makes them a bit hard to look at.

 

My hardest thing to look at is the crop job of the first one. I get you wanted to put your watermark in there, but his foot is half gone. As a visual artist that is distracting to me, and I get it you wanted to have room for your watermark which I hope is really just an advertising image.

 

Keep up the great work!

[Author]

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