Is your other ‘photographer’ a PPA Photographer?
Being a member of the PPA shows my clients that I am passionate about my career. Membership in a professional association is expensive, time consuming, and rewarding. It shows a level of commitment to my profession and by having these credentials; you are able to determine if I am the right photographer for you.
There are a lot of photographers in Denver. There are a lot of folks who know how to take really great pictures, or they have a “really nice camera”. Just because a photographer isn’t credentialed, doesn’t mean they are any less talented than those of us who are. It just means that we who have spent money and time in obtaining these important credentials, that we are invested in our careers financially and professionally. Having this status guarantees a pleasant and professional experience with us.
So what… I’m a PPA Photographer. Does that mean you pay extra fees and higher costs to contract me? Nope. Does it mean that you’ll have a snooty photographer only looking for a pay-day. Absolutely not. Does it mean you’ll receive better customer service and products? Possibly. Does being a PPA Photographer mean that everyone who isn’t a member is not a professional? It’s very possible that statement is somewhat true.
Devastation is hard to deal with. It’s hard to determine what would happen if exposure wasn’t checked as your baby is being born, or worse, the photographer gave false information on past experiences with birth, as in no experience. What if the photographer who charges a hundred dollars less didn’t back up regularly, a drive failed, and they weren’t insured to have the data recovered. I’ve had drives fail, 2 in 6 months. It happens. Cards fail. Cameras fail. Computers crash. It happens.
I back-up regularly, almost nightly, thus my expenses are a little higher to ensure your images are safely stored on 3 different routine systems. I am insured. I use high-end equipment and software. I can teach and I haven’t stopped learning. I invest time that could be spent with my own family, on your family. YOU are important to me. Your kids, are very important to me.
For your own comfort, I have many testimonials and references. I can honestly say that I’ve photographed many births, and I can show you images from those births. As a client you wouldn’t be choosing my services based on just my word, you can choose whether or not you like my work! That’s important. You can find me on the PPA registry, and in the BBB.
I wish the best for you, should you choose not to work with me, but please do make an informed decision. Ask for referrals, look for testimonials, does the photographer volunteer at all and who do they volunteer with, are they insured, and what are their credentials.
Some other factors to consider:
- Photographer Talent – Many photographers cannot afford certification, or are too busy to keep renewing their certification. Do not overlook related experience and exceptional talent.
- Costs – Some photographers cost more than others, often for a good reason. Understand the saying “You Get What Your Pay For” has its merits. Visit this site for an informed insight on choosing a professional photographer: http://www.professionalchildphotographer.com
- Digital / Film – There are disadvantages to both film and digital. It’s worth conducting some research.
- Liability / Archiving – Some photographers may not keep a backup of their work, ask your photographer for additional media recovery packages, and consult their common practices.
Knowledge is power
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