Why Hire a Professional Photographer?

We know the drill all too well; your kid's friend's mom just got a really expensive, nice camera so what do you need with a professional photographer?   Or the guy down the street only charges $20 for an 8x10, those pictures will be good enough... right?

Well, for one thing, just because someone has a nice camera, doesn't mean they know how to use it.  

Here are some questions to ask: 

• Even when folks kind of figure out how to use it, do they know how to light someone properly so they look their best? 
• How about retouching?  
• Do they have the skills and software needed to achieve the result desired?  
• Where will the pictures be printed?  
• Do they color correct the images, and how do you know they won't come back with too much green?  
• What do they print on?  
• Is it archival?  
• If it's a new photographer who is undercutting everyone else just to get business, will they be able to afford to give you products that last? 
• How will they handle your family?  
• What if there is a problem with one of your children during the session?

Do they have the patience and skill necessary to still create great portraits for you? The answer to this, and the other questions, is probably no.  But, "Does it matter?", you ask, and the answer is  "YES!"

Don't trust your child's portrait, whether they are toddlers or graduating seniors, to a once-in-a-while or amateur photographer.  Trust an experienced professional.