The real question is: what is the cost of time and the price of talent? As a prospective client, you may value the price point to the numbers of hours on location or the number of images you’ll receive on your disk. While this does play a factor in price, it is not everything that the cost is based on. Though I don’t believe you can put a price on talent, below is a quick breakdown of how much time is spent on each individual session.
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Time Breakdown:
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Prepping for session on location: 60 minutes +
Includes: checking and double checking all gear, cleaning lenses, making sure batteries are charged, memory cards are formatted, and spares are available of each. Mapping and printing directions to shoot location and time spent driving to and from location (which in Phoenix is usually about 30 minutes each way).
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Prepping for studio session: 90 minutes+
Includes: checking and double checking all gear, cleaning lenses, making sure batteries are charged, memory cards are formatted, and spares are available of each. Complete cleaning of studio and props so they are safe for newborns and babies. This involves washing all blankets, wraps, support props, hats, headbands, and beanies, which also results in laundry costs.
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Processing Time: 6-7 hours
Includes: 45-60 minutes of uploading time from camera to computer and backing up the original images, 3-5 hours editing time (8-10 hours for newborn sessions!), 1 hour prep time to get images ready for burning your disk, website viewing, and client proofing.
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Additional Service and Delivery: 60 minutes +
Includes: phone calls, e-mails, and any additional time needed to ensure complete customer satisfaction. Complete online order, burning disk and/or ordering prints, packaging, and driving time to and from post office.
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So in addition to the time spent actually photographing your family or little bundles of joy, each of my clients receives approximately 10+ hours of time and care behind the scenes. I love what I do, I love my clients, and I try my best to keep the cost to you as low as possible!
-Jacquilyn Avery
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