I was musing recently over the question “Do people today really need a professional photographer?” With the proliferation of high end digital cameras that are affordable even to amateurs, and the fact that nearly everyone that has a digital camera (maybe even a high end point and shoot) thinks they are a professional, the need for a professional photographer seems to be waning. Combine that with the parents of seniors going to their friends and family members for their seniors’ graduation pictures instead of to a professional studio. Add to all of this a flattened and downright bad economy and consumers are looking for the “cheap” and “inexpensive” alternatives to the professional studio.
And then there is the “dumbing down of valued photography.” I recently spoke to a bride who valued where she bought her designer cake ($1000) and didn’t really care where or from whom she got her “pictures.” She said her parents wanted a pro but her friends who had good cameras were begging to do her wedding photos. Needless to say, I was not chosen as her photographer and frankly that was fine with me, since she did not value what we did.
So, back to question at hand. “Do consumers today really need a professional photographer or does a neighbor or friend or family member do?” Take away for a moment that I am a professional. Take away for a moment that I am biased. Let me attempt to answer the question as unbiasedly as I can.
Certainly, there are some amateurs out there that are very good photographers. And I understand why some people would turn to them. But let me share an experience with you. Many months ago, a man called my office and said that his neighbor had taken his daughter’s senior pictures and wondered if I could/print his images from a card. The photographer didn’t or wouldn’t or couldn’t, I’m not sure which. Of course, I do not print other people’s images under my name. So, I refused.
You see, the professional uses a professional lab and makes sure that the image is a gorgeous portrait and photograph, not just a nice picture.Your professional knows how to be creative and artistic and distinctive. Your professional is a consultant to help you get the best. Your professional helps you with large size wall portraits and introduces you to many, many wonderful products besides just an 8×10 print or a 5×7 print.
Your professional knows how to do correct composition as well as knowing how to “capture the perfect moment” of the person’s soul and character. Your professional knows lighting and how to use lighting to make such a gorgeous photograph. Your professional envisions and plans and knows how people should be shown in their best situation. He/she is trained, is constantly trying to learn, is constantly endeavoring to be the very best they can be. Does your amateur do that? Your professional spends the money to make great portraits in studio or on location. They know how to post process and they have a tremendous investment in their profession.
Your professional is concerned that your investment is protected for many years with conservationist and archival measures with framing. Your professional is an artist.
Call your professional photographer. They will capture “moments in time” that transcend anything your friend, relative or neighbor can do. Long after the party, long after the senior shoot, your professional’s images will bring a tear to your eye as you remember those wonderful times that day.
