Monday, September 29, 2008

Tessa ~ Bell County High Spokesmodel

Tessa is the last of our 2009 senior spokesmodels. She attends Bell County High School, home of the Bobcats. Tessa and her mom were really fun to work with. They both have a great sense of humor. We talked, and laughed, tried to talk her mom into buying her a Mustang GT :) and created some beautiful images!

Oh, and did I mention that Tessa was nominated for Homecoming Queen? Yeah!

Here are a few of our favorites...

Photobucket
Photobucket
Photobucket
Photobucket
Photobucket
Photobucket

Baby Kandace

I've had so much to blog about lately, and so little time to blog it! So, at 1:38am, I'm making time to catch you guys up on what we've been doing.

This is baby Kandace. She is our very first Bundles & Babies client to start at the very first session. Let me tell ya...she didn't make it easy on us!

We decided on doing naked baby pictures for her newborn session. That style is, by far, my favorite! Babies tend to be uncomfortable in those cute little outfits we love to put them in. They are usually much happier in their birthday suit!

A warning to all moms who want to do naked newborn portraits. You WILL get wet (or worse)! It's just a matter of time! haha

To begin the session, we used Mom (Jessica) as a baby holder. The babies feel much more comfortable when they are being held by their mother. We had her come in wearing a long-sleeve black shirt. With the background also being black, it helped place the emphasis on the baby.

So, we undressed Kancace and put her in Jessica's lap. Before I could snap off the first shot, she went #2! Luckily, it was an easy clean-up! We gave her a break, let her finish her business and tried again.

Again, before I could get off the first shot, she goes #1! What can you say? When you gotta go...you gotta go!

Mom was such a good sport. I'm sure if she's not used to it by now...she will be soon!

After she was all empty, we had to fill her back up again. We took about a 30 minute break and let her eat. After all, prepping for your first photo shoot is a workout. :)

Finally, she was empty, then full, and finally happy! All in all, we got some beautiful shots!

Here is her birth announcement. Twenty-five of these are included in our Bundles & Babies Program. I think her's is absolutely beautiful!

Front:

Photobucket

Back:

Photobucket

Wednesday, September 24, 2008

Rebecca's Senior Book

Rebecca and I created so many beautiful senior portraits, we decided to put them all into a book! I love these books and so do my seniors & their parents. They come in 2 sizes, 10x10 (perfect for the coffee table) and 5x5 (perfect for a backpack or purse).

I just finished the rough draft of Rebecca's book. Here it is...


Why does custom photography cost more?

Why Does Custom Photography Cost More?


Digital technology is brilliant. The digital revolution has brought amazing flexibility and amazing amounts of control for the photographer, the hobbyist, the professional, the amateur. With flexibility comes a price though. Camera equipment is still considerably more expensive when you factor in its’ lifespan, the need for additional resources for processing those images, the time it takes to get a usable image and the effort that goes into all of this.

Even though you pay $1.99 for a print at your local drugstore and paying for film is pretty much a thing of the past (although you still pay for memory) you may be wondering why you may pay upwards of $40, 50, 70, 90 for a custom photography print. Some photographers hear this statement every once in awhile:

"How in the world can you charge $60 for an 8×10 if it costs me less than $2 to print at the local drug store?"




The answer is multifaceted and has a lot to do with the time, aforementioned equipment costs, artistic vision and reputation of the photographer, expertise and the usual costs of running a legitimate business.



TIME of the CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHER:

Approaching it from a time standpoint, for instance let’s imagine if you will that you have hired a photographer who has work that you love and that is travelling an hour to your on location session. TIme break down:

session prep time (30 mins - 1 hour, includes equipment and back up equipment checks + vehicle checks)
one hour travel time TO session
15-30 minutes prep time at client’s home
90 minutes-2 hours with client photographing subject
one hour travel time FROM session
30-45 minutes uploading time from digital cards from camera to computer
30-45 minutes time spent backing up the original images
2-5 hours editing time to present you with a diverse gallery of edited images
1 hour prep time getting ready for ordering
2-3 hours time with client for ordering images
1 hour sorting through and checking order
30 minutes-1 hour prep time for delivery
30 minutes-1 hour getting order shipped
any additional phone time or time needed for add on ordering, shipment issues, quality issues
As you can see, average client time for a session ranges from just under 13 hours to 19 hours dependent on the photographer’s level of service. This is time dedicated only to your session. When the photographer charges $150-$300 for the photo shoot you are not just paying for the two hours of session time, you are paying the photographer for 12-19 hours complete time for your session.



COSTS of the CUSTOM PHOTOGRAPHER:

Regarding equipment costs, a good quality professional camera with a selection of good optical quality lenses and digital storage mediums and computer set up can run from $10,000-$30,000 costs dependent on the photographer. Even though you can purchase a really good quality digital SLR for about $2100 there are still other costs related to photography. A good lens for portrait photography can run up $900 to $2500. A dependable computer system with software loaded for business and creative usage can run $2500 to $8000 dependent on the photographer.

Then come lab costs for specialty products. A good photographer knows the lab is integral to their success. Photography labs dedicated to the professional photographer often cost more and offer a range of products that allows the custom photographer to continually offer new, innovative products for you, the discerning client.

Discussion other costs of running a photography business could take awhile so we’ll skip the intricate details. There is of course much more: including costs of running the business, taxes, studio rental/mortgage if the photographer has ownership of a dedicated studio, vehicular costs, costs of advertising/marketing, costs of sample pieces that the photographer will likely bring to your session, etc.



APPLES to ORANGES:

Often times clients will mention to their photographer that X studio in the mall/department store only charges $25 for an 8×10 or they may mention other things related to discount photography chains. The fact is those discount chains make their money on volume, not on customized 1:1 service. According to several articles at the time, did you know that in February 2007 a rather well known discount department store that started in Arkansas closed down 500 of their portrait studios across the nation? The reason is simple, you cannot make money on 99¢ "professional" prints if you do not sell enough of them. Interestingly enough - those same studios that offer the loss leader packages often charge much much more for their a la carte pricing (as high as $40-50 for an 8×10). The whole reason the big department stores began offering portrait studios in the first place was to get you, the savvy consumer, in through their door so that you could spend more money with them in other departments. Your "PORTRAITS" are considered the true "loss leader".

Going to a chain studio, as a consumer, you don’t have the benefit of 1:1 attention for 2 hours at your home where your child is allowed to explore, play and be comfortable in their home environment, nor do you get the experience that many custom photographers are known for or the lovely captures of natural expressions. You simply get a bare bones, "SAY CHEESE" experience. Keep this in mind when selecting a photographer.



REPUTATION/EXPERTISE of the PHOTOGRAPHER:

Being in demand, being well known for quality work, having a good reputation often costs time on the photographer’s part. Their expertise comes at a cost, their time learning their craft and learning the intricacies of lighting and the commitment put forth on their end to create a persona about their business that oozes professionalism. A great number of photographers go a very long time from the time that they purchase their first good camera to making money at the business of photography. Many photographers, when first starting out, rush in thinking that the business will be easily profitable in no time, how expensive could it be to get a camera and use it to create their dream? They often neglect to factor in the cost of business, the cost of equipment, software, back ups, etc..

Being of sound reputation, a better professional photographer knows that they must always reinvest in their business to create the reputation of being top notch. To create good work good equipment, reliable equipment, back up equipment is a necessity. The photographer who desires to be known as better/best/unparalelled reputation-wise knows that the most important thing they can do for their business is reliability and dependability. This is how reputations get built. Good work often is a wonderful side product of building that good reputation.

I hope this (lengthy) article helps shed some light on WHY a custom photographer is a better choice for your family’s memories. The photographs that are produced as a result of the professionalism and dedication that your photographer has will be cherished for a lifetime (or more) and great thought and consideration should be placed into hiring who is right for your family’s most precious investment.


Credit for this article belongs to http://www.professionalchildphotographer.com/information/?p=6

Monday, September 22, 2008

Christmas portraits to begin on October 1st

We are starting our outdoor Christmas sessions on October 1st and they will run until the first week of November, and possibly a little longer depending on the weather.

Our area is absolutely beautiful in the Fall, so why not take advantage of it and have your Christmas portraits taken a little earlier and outdoors?

We also have several gorgeous photo-customized Christmas cards to choose from.


We know that it seems too early to be thinking about Christmas, but don't put this off! October is nearly full already!

Give us a call at the studio (606)589-6879 to schedule your appointment.

We are starting our outdoor Christmas sessions on October 1st and they will run until the first week of November, and possibly a little longer depending on the weather.

Our area is absolutely beautiful in the Fall, so why not take advantage of it and have your Christmas portraits taken a little earlier?

We also have several gorgeous photo-customized Christmas cards to choose from.


We know that it seems too early to be thinking about Christmas, but don't put this off! October is nearly full already!

Give us a call at the studio (606)589-6879 to schedule your appointment.


Photobucket

Saturday, September 20, 2008

HCHS photography class

On Friday, I had the opportunity to be a guest speaker at the local high school's photography class. It is being taught by Carlton Hughes of Southeast Community College and Chris Jones of the Harlan Daily Enterprise. It's a dual credit class, which means that the students get high school and college credit for the course.

It was the first time that I got to see the inside of the new high school, and let me tell you, I was impressed! Everything looked really nice. I'll have to admit, I'm very jealous! I would have loved the opportunity to go to a school like that and have been exposed to all of the electives that are offered including photography, interior design, and forensics.

We moved next door into a classroom that has a Smart Board, which is an interactive white board. It has a touch-sensitive display and connects a computer and digital projector so you can display images. Several of the classrooms in this school have this technology.

Carlton Hughes introduced me and I began the session with a slideshow of my favorite class of 2009 senior images. After that I talked a little about how I got to where I am in the photography industry. I also brought along the camera that I use as well as examples a few products that are offered at the studio like photo jewelry, photo bags, custom hard cover books, and gallery wrapped canvas prints. The students and teachers had some great questions for me. Although I was going on only 3 hours of sleep, I think it went really well. :) I had a lot of fun sharing information about my career and business. I had intended on taking a few pictures for my blog readers, but time wasn't on our side (aka I talk too much).

If things go as planned, it may not be my last time talking with the class. We're working out the details of a field trip to the studio. Yay!

Wednesday, September 17, 2008

Happy Birthday, Hannah!

Today, my niece turned 7. She's having a birthday party on Saturday, so today we had dinner at El Charrito in Cumberland. We usually go there together once or twice a week, but today was a little different. For those of you who may not know, when it's your birthday, they will put a sombrero on you, sing you a song, and give you fried icecream.

When she went to the bath room to wash her hands, I told our server about her birthday. I also brought my camera along hidden inside my purse. She had asked me before we left if she was going to have them sing to me. There was no way that I was going to let her birthday pass without a little bit of embarrassment! What are aunts for? :)

Photobucket
Photobucket

Afterwards, she was a little embarrassed, but she loved it!
Photobucket

Enjoying her fried icecream.
Photobucket

Us...taken by one of the staff.
Photobucket

Unusually happy about the bill. Obviously she wasn't paying for it! :)
Photobucket

Happy Birthday Hannah. I love ya!

Photobucket

Monday, September 15, 2008

Sneak peak at our Halloween border!

Here it is! I finished it last night. This is a sneak peak of one of the borders that will be used with our Halloween mini-sessions on Cumberland's trick-or-treat day!

I really love it and I hope you do too!

Check out our previous blog for more information about the mini-sessions, fundraiser, and costume contest!

Photobucket

Halloween Costume Contest & Empty Stocking Fund Fundraiser

Hi all!

I can't believe it's almost fall and time to start thinking about Halloween!

I really love this holiday, partly because of my sugar obsession.
:)


Jessica Edwards Photography has some big things going on this year for Halloween and I'm really excited about it.

We are going to be shooting mini Halloween sessions of kids in their costumes the day of Cumberland's trick-or-treating.

In exchange for bringing in one canned food item, to be donated to the Empty Stocking Fund, we'll provide one free 4x5!

In addition to the free 4x5, we'll also be offering very affordable packages for those who wish to share them with friends and family.

One of the things I'm most excited about is our Halloween costume contest! For all those who wish to enter, I'll post your child's picture on my blog and allow the public to vote on the best costume.

Winners will get a great prize, that I'll announce at a later date!

Check back often for updates!

Sunday, September 14, 2008

Alyssa, HCHS Senior Spokesmodel

This has been my second time photographing Alyssa. The first time was with her younger sister around Christmas of last year. She was great to work with both times!


We started off in the studio with several outfits and backgrounds.

Photobucket

Everyone has said, "This is so Alyssa!" She also wanted to represent CHS, where she had spent her first 3 years of high school, by sporting a Cumberland hoodie. I love all the personal touches in this photo!
Photobucket

I love my zebra background!
Photobucket

Next, we moved into an alley to get some urban-inspired shots. This is where something happened that I've never seen before. Her mother and little sister was with us watching the photo shoot. All of a sudden her sister became startled and said, "Mom. I think there's something in my pocket!" She thought she was joking then quickly figured out that she wasn't. Her mom started to pull her pocket out of her jeans when a huge bumble bee flew out of her pocket! I am terrified of bees, so I don't think I would have taken it as well as she did!
Photobucket
Photobucket
Photobucket

Then, we headed to a sand volleyball court. The shots we got there turned out beautifully with the setting sun behind her, but we all paid the price for it... tons of bug bites!
Photobucket

Finally, we used the beautiful open field where the volleyball court was located to take some shots showcasing her new pink gun!
Photobucket
Photobucket

We held their viewing session last week. The family all so excited about getting to see the pictures. Dad, however, had to teach class at church that night, so he didn't come with Alyssa and her mom. Halfway through the session he called her to see if they were still there. He had finished class and really wanted to come down to see her portraits.

About 10 minutes later, he got there and I started the slideshow for him. Mom asked, "Where's Boo?" (Boo is what they call her little sister). He had a look of total shock and panic. He held up his hands and said, "Oh no! I was in such a hurry to get here so I could see the pictures that I left her at the church practicing music!"

haha :)

Thursday, September 11, 2008

Baby Addy

With all the seniors I've been shooting, it's been a while since I've photographed a baby. Well, I guess I can still call Addy a baby. She's now 9 months old and growing up fast. She's our very first participant in our Bundles & Babies program! Only one more session (the big 1st year) until she graduates from the program.

Of course, I had to capture her 9 month milestone...standing! I love how she has her little toes pointed!
Photobucket

This was a special present from a family member. She was a little wild woman on this thing! We had to keep mom so close behind her that I had to edit her out of the photo.
Photobucket

Anyone who knows me and my work know that I love close ups! Especially with babies, it's too tempting to not zoom in and show off those cute eyes and lips!
Photobucket
Photobucket

Tuesday, September 9, 2008

Kelsey, HCHS Senior Spokesmodel

Meet Kelsey!

This girl can pull off camo to dressy and everything in between!

The next 3 were taken at the softball field where she spent 7 years pitching. She pitched for the varsity team since the 5th grade!
Photobucket

Everyone who sees this shot says "That is SO Kelsey!"
Photobucket

This one is Dad's favorite.
Photobucket

Having some fun with texture
Photobucket
Photobucket
Photobucket

This pose is a lot harder than it looks!
Photobucket

Mom's favorite. Kelsey says it's her "shampoo commercial" shot. :)
Photobucket

In this one, I told her to look at Dad (who was doing a fantastic job of holding my reflector) but she gave him kind of a mean look. I said "don't look at him like you're gonna kill him!" and she started cracking up. I captured a beautiful, natural expression.
Photobucket

Dad says this one reminds him of Emmylou Harris from the cover of Elite Hotel
Photobucket
Boy was he right!
Photobucket

Here's a couple of the more dressy shots
Photobucket
Photobucket


I'll end with what has become my "signature shot"
Photobucket

Sunday, September 7, 2008

Portrait Tattoo

One of my portraits has been memorialized in ink. It's a great feeling knowing that someones likes your image so much that they are willing to live with it forever!

The tattoo was created by the very talented Scott Farrell of Bad Habit, Inc. For those of you considering tattoos or piercings, check them out!

www.myspace.com/badhabitinc

*This picture was taken the same day as the tattoo was created, so the redness was only temporary*

Photobucket

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Katie, June Buchanan Senior Spokesmodel

Katie came to us from June Buchanan High in Pippa Passes, Kentucky, home of Alice Lloyd College. She is very sweet, smart, works as an after school tutor, and is a big Taylor Swift fan. We listened to her CD almost 2 full times during her session. As I type this, it just occured to me that she resembles Taylor as well!

During her viewing appointment, it became clear how different everyone's taste can be! Katie's favorite would be Dad's least, Mom's favorite would me Katie's least favorite...

Katie and I did agree on favorites, though, which was this one...
Photobucket

These were also among her favorites
Photobucket
Photobucket
Photobucket

Dad's favorites...

Photobucket
Photobucket
He calls this one her "happy picture"
Photobucket

And last, but not least, Mom's favorites...
Photobucket
Photobucket