Question: Why does professional photography cost so much?
Answer: You may think you’re paying for someone to just press a button, but there’s really much more to it than that. Take me for example: I have been a shutterbug since I was a child. I started with a Kodak Instamatic 110 camera. I upgraded to a 35mm camera when I took photography classes in high school. I then decided to study photography in college and took every class that was offered including B&W, Slide, Color, and Studio photography. I found my niche in Portrait photography as people were always my favorite subject. When my daughter came along, I refused to pay anyone to take photos of her when I knew I could do it myself. By then my film and darkroom equipment was “outdated” and digital was gaining popularity. I’ve probably invested over $60,000 in equipment over the years.
Education
Photographic Paper
Computers
Photoshop Actions
Light Stands
Studio Rental
Light/Flash Meter
Bookkeeping
Equipment Repairs
Hair & Makeup Artists
Professional Memberships
Cameras
Darkroom Chemicals
Software Purchases and Subscriptions
Photoshop Brushes
Light Modifiers
Venue Admission
Props
Tax Preparation
Travel
Client Closet (Wardrobe)
Networking Events
Lenses
Darkroom Tools
Lightroom Presets
Flashes/Strobes/Bulbs
Background Supports
Tripod
Posing Tools
Insurance
Equipment Upgrades
Photographic Prints
Advertising / Marketing
Film
Darkroom Utilties
Photoshop Plugins
Batteries
Backgrounds
Cords and adaptors of various types
Workshops/Classes
Tax ID Renewal Fees
Advanced Retouching Services
Framing Services
General Overhead