Monday, November 28, 2011

Changes

This post marks some changes for me. I have had an absolutely wonderful year in photography. I got to photograph some old friends, and make lots of new ones. I photographed 73 sessions, 6 weddings, 2 Bat Mitzvahs, 3 anniversaries, and a quincenera. I also did some commercial work. I have completed almost every session on my 2011 calendar and am not currently booking anymore for this year.
After all those sessions, I realize, not only am I getting good at portraiture, I really enjoy it.
But, alas, I have come to a crossroad. I need to make some changes. As much as I have enjoyed it all, I am at a point where I must make more money to continue as I am. So, I have decided to increase my rates for 2012. I raised them almost 3 years ago when I upgraded equipment and knew I had made a measurable leap in ability. Now it is time to do it again. I will be raising my 2012 regular session cost to $130 per session. I always tell people I would never charge more than what I could afford or think I am worth. I try my absolute best to deliver quality photos and experiences. My hope after every session is that you had a fun time and want to have your portrait taken by me again.
Another change I need to make is cutting out slide shows. I really enjoy making them, but cannot continue to make them for every session without charging for them. I will make them upon request for a fee.
I also am not taking on more than 6 big events during the 2012 year. This will include weddings, anniversary parties, etc. I currently have 2 booked for 2012. As much as I love spending the day at the these events, I cannot bring myself to really charge what I need to make a decent hourly wage, and they always seem to give me lots of editing headaches. I have decided a want a piece of the party pie, just not a big one.
I decided to have a sale, though, for those of you who have been wonderful to me this past year (and many years past for some of you). I am offering nine session gift certificates at this years rate to be used in 2012. They will sell for $100 each. I will start the sale at 7 am tomorrow when I will post the sale on Facebook. The certificates will be first come, first serve. Just leave a comment for me on my Facebook post to reserve yours. Certificates must be paid for within 7 days by cash, check, or PayPal. These will make great Christmas gifts!
And, lastly, I want to thank everyone who made this a great photography year. I am always touched by your comments and feedback, your willingness to have me "shoot you" over and over, your praise when you tell others about me, and your kindness always.

Monday, November 21, 2011

Big Green Tractors

Carrie had an idea for a shoot involving her family's John Deere tractors and around a farm.We shot these in early October on a Sunday morning. The light was magic and the kids were awesome. I love how every shot turned out and I think it really tells the story of their farm life.





Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

The Mathisons

A family session of 3 generations, taken in Rochester, near Silver Lake. This si the second time I have photographed this family, and the kids have sure grown!






Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Birthdays

Johan was so worried he would not hear from his family for his birthday. As luck would have it, he got a letter in the mail on his birthday and was able to Skype with his dad and sister while he read it. There were lots of words about how wonderful he is and and how proud his family back home is of him. There were also lots of tears, but only of happiness.  
Johan and our friend Mallory share a birthday. So our families took them out to Pizza Ranch for dinner.  
We had and ice cream cake (Snicker's Blizzard flavor, Johan's favorite) from Dairy Queen.