What every professional photographer would like to say...

Good Morning!!

Still working behind the scenes on a totally new look for this, here, blog of mine.
While all that has been taking place, I got to thinking about some recent discoveries involving professional photographers.

There are so many misconceptions!
This brought me to writing my very own list to clear things up a bit.

Believe me, most photographers have wanted to say at least one of these things in their time photographing, I'm sure not all, but I promise, at least one.

Melissa Pierce Photography's Little (UN)known Rules

1. I didn't become a professional photographer when I bought my fancy camera.
        I started this road years ago with my Nikon D50 in hand. I started with the kit lens, shooting automatic. I moved the dial to Manual at least 2 years later...yes, 2 years. I read the manual a MILLION times and learned my camera in and out. I called my photographer cousin hundreds of times, asking for pointers. Fast forward 6 years.....I opened my photography business..with my beloved Nikon D50 still in hand. (Nikon D50 is NOT considered a professional camera) I had learned by then, the camera is a tool, what I could do with my tool made me good at what I do. I now own a Canon 5DMarkll and there are days I miss my D50. Trust me folks..it's not the camera!

2. PHOTOSHOP is a tool to ENHANCE my talent.
       While Photoshop is hands down, one of the most amazing tools I have, it doesn't take place of my talent and it is not a miracle worker. I want everyone to look their absolute best, but I cannot alter YOU. Actually, I could, but I don't want to and neither should you.

3. I need to get paid. This is my career. I have mouths to feed, bills to pay, a life to live...just like YOU. For a long time I have given deals to family and friends...I actually felt GUILTY for charging what I know I'm worth!! Um, that doesn't buy groceries. I LOVE to give back and if there is a charity that I want to donate my time and talent to, I will, the payback doubles for me more than any amount of money. I see it as getting paid emotionally, it feels good to give back. However, I can't do every event that might be asked of me. Please understand, I would LOVE to, just sometimes, I can't.
   As far as friends and family discounts,,,,,ugh, this still kills me, but I can't offer them anymore. If I take your photo and offer you prints, great! But please don't assume because we are cousins twice removed by marriage that I'm going to work for free or a significant price cut. I'll tell you what...When Hannaford offers free groceries or your doctor waives his fees, so won't I! Deal?

4. I have a specific style. This is so important. There are talented photographers all over. We are all different in our own way. That is what makes it so freaking awesome!! Find a photographer that specializes in the style YOU love. If you love standard traditional studio photos, you will be greatly disappointed if you hire me. I am not even close to traditional. Here's the thing, its ok. I want every single client to get exactly what they want. This quite possibly means you won't hire me..that's OK! I have gotten to know some amazing photographers in the area, I would gladly point you in the right direction to fulfill your needs!!

5. Editing is NOT quick. It can be, but for me, I have to take breaks away from the computer. My eyes start seeing double and I have to walk away. With that said, if I tell you it will be a week to see your proofs, its not because I'm working for a week nonstop on your photos. I tend to edit better in the evening after everyone has gone to bed. I don't know why, its quiet, its peaceful. If you want the best from me, trust me, if I say a week or even two, you WANT me to take that time.

6. If I show you your proofs and out of a million clicks of my camera and there is only 20. Please don't ask to see the others. I do what I do because I know what I'm doing. These 20 are the cream of the crop, the best of the best..I PROMISE! I do not edit every single photo I take. I do not display unedited photos (rules can change for wedding candids). Please, Please learn to trust me on this.

7. I truly love what I do. I love seeing people's reactions to their images. I love laughing and goofing around during the session. I chose to do this for a living after A LOT of thought and couldn't be happier. I genuinely care about you and your images and will always strive to be the best I can and continue to get better.

With all that said, if any photographer friends would like to add to this least, please do!!

Talk Soon Peeps!

Melissa