General Wedding and Hannah Montana Chit Chat Thread... (Part 5)

[Kathy H]

I feel for you...there's someone here doing shoots for $30 including a print. Disks are $100. Crazy.

We can't compete with that! I really don't mind getting beat out by Walmart, the cheap price reflects in the lovely fake background, deer in the headlights portraits they produce. If that's what the people can afford and they are just wanting a shot of the family to remember what they looked like, then I honestly understand.

But an individual that is shooting cheap just to steal business is not nice at all!

[LeesaB]

Tis the season, I just had a Twitter "Help I need a photog fast" So I replied, told her I would do it for air flight and hotel...

She responded, "thanks I'll keep you in mind"

What is wrong with people....

I wrote a sheet I now give to all my clients It's titled

Don't wish you would have....it talks about the 500 photog or the family member with a new SLR.

So I wrote back and told the girl the same thing and said "do me a favor, please do not get yourself a craigslist photog. Dont wish you would have...

So we will see...

[Kathy H]

Good evening everyone - the bridal show went well today. It was slower than I anticipated. I talked to about 20-30 brides. We'll see what comes of it, but I did book a wedding before the show of a good friend of mine, so that works :D

Tomorrow, we will be taking our first trip out of town together to spend a gift card we got for Jacob at Babies R Us. I'll also be in the hunt for a doggie pillow and a cool blanket or two, to take some photos of him with. They seem to come in handy for that type of thing. I'll try and get some photos of him tomorrow as well - we'll see how that goes.

Hope you're all enjoying the weekend. The weather is great here, upper 60s today and tomorrow - then 6-12 inches of snow on Monday. Yes, the weather is just that crazy here.
Glad the bridal show went good for you!

We are having annoying weather here too.....65 one day and snow the next.:rolleyes: I think your state wins the prize for crazy weather though, I was in Laramie a few years ago in AUGUST and it was SNOWING!

[Kathy H]

Tis the season, I just had a Twitter "Help I need a photog fast" So I replied, told her I would do it for air flight and hotel...

She responded, "thanks I'll keep you in mind"

What is wrong with people....

I wrote a sheet I now give to all my clients It's titled

Don't wish you would have....it talks about the 500 photog or the family member with a new SLR.

So I wrote back and told the girl the same thing and said "do me a favor, please do not get yourself a craigslist photog. Dont wish you would have...

So we will see...

Those kind of things drive me nuts.....sound so desperate then when you offer help, they want to think about it.:rolleyes:

[Maureen Souza]

I HURT! Primed and spackled, drywalled, sanded and painted and painted for 13 hours ...now a hot shower, a few winks and back at it tomorrow!!!
My son tore down one wall and half gutted th kitchen. This house is gonna keep me busy through the summer....and it's going to be a fun project.
Nighty-night!

[SuzyView]

Maureen, don't overdo it. You have to be in prime shape when you come in 4 days! :) Does sound fun, if you know what you're doing. In my husband's case, we hire it out. :)

How is everyone? Sunday. It's gorgeous here, still cold, though. Cherry blossoms are early than anticipated, Mo! Blooming already, and by Friday, it should be amazing.

[JimAskew]

... How is everyone? Sunday. It's gorgeous here, still cold, though. Cherry blossoms are early than anticipated, Mo! Blooming already, and by Friday, it should be amazing.
Good Morning Suzie and Good Morning Everyone :)

Friday is going to be perfect Cherry Blossom weather! High of 61 degrees and partly sunny :D

Elaine and I are off to Silver Diner for waffles & bacon and then out in search of photo ops....I hope all have a wonderful Sunday!

[SuzyView]

Jim, it's a shame your avatar is so small. As You know that we Mods get a larger one. That image of you is just as happy as the one of me above. That was a fun day! Can't wait for Friday.

[Derweissehai]

Morning everyone. Well yesterday was an eventful day for me. Did 2 shoots that lasted nearly 12 hours. But what a day.

First shoot was a SteamPunk Society shoot. Turned out to be great funk with all the costumes and locations. Second shoot was a spring clothing line. Will post photos of the second after the owner chooses the photos. But for now here are three from the steam punk shoot.


http://fc15.deviantart.com/fs42/f/2009/080/7/5/Steampunk_3_by_Derweissehai.jpg

http://fc98.deviantart.com/fs42/f/2009/080/2/f/Steampunk_2_by_Derweissehai.jpg

http://fc69.deviantart.com/fs42/f/2009/080/4/4/Cowford_Steampunk_1_by_Derweissehai.jpg

You can't get locations like this in a studio. Yes that is a real Boiler room in the first 2 shoots. Also the first 2 were al done strobist style with off camera flash.

[SuzyView]

Love the model's boots. Something I'd wear? :)

Nice work! Love that shadow on the last one.

[SuzyView]

Weather forecast from Yahoo says Friday is a go, cloudy, but 65 and so it'll be perfect. Sat & Sun it is saying rain. How about meeting at the A&S in Dulles, it's $12 for parking, I have season pass, and I think Jon does, too. Stay there until lunch, meet at the Cheese Cake Factory, as it's not that far away. Then you can take Mo, Jim for the rest of the day and can she spend the night at your house or you can drive her back to mine. Then Sunday, Mo gets driven to DC to her niece's house and then back in the evening to my house. I won't be home until around 10, I think. Then on Monday we meet again at the Mall in DC.

[Jon]

Sounds like a plan . . . I don't think I'll be heading to any steeplechases . . .

[SuzyView]

Monday is the day I don't really know what to do. We can actually do some real picture taking, maybe get a bus pass so we don't have to walk so much but hop on the tourbus and that way get more shooting in.

[Jon]

Can't help you there - I'll be working then.

[Belmondo]

It sounds like everyone is getting very excited about Maureen's visit. I wish I could be there, too, but I can't mange to see her when she lives just a couple hundred miles from here. It's always worth the trouble when it does happen, though.;)

I really miss my participation here.....I have so little time for the forum these days. When I do log on, I barely have time to catch up on correspondence and do my moderator duties, then go back to the horrors of my real world.

I hope everyone here is doing well. I do try to keep up.....

[Kathy H]

It sounds like everyone is getting very excited about Maureen's visit. I wish I could be there, too, but I can't mange to see her when she lives just a couple hundred miles from here. It's always worth the trouble when it does happen, though.;)

I really miss my participation here.....I have so little time for the forum these days. When I do log on, I barely have time to catch up on correspondence and do my moderator duties, then go back to the horrors of my real world.

I hope everyone here is doing well. I do try to keep up.....

You are missed!:D

[LeesaB]

I hope to be seeing you (Tom) when Kathy and I come to Vegas in March!!!

I just got home, church and an amazing business meeting!

our church has started a business owners group and is bringing in well know speakers...This was the first and it was very very informational and helpful! can't wait to blog on it!

[Belmondo]

You are missed!:DThanks, Kathy.

I hope to be seeing you (Tom) when Kathy and I come to Vegas in March!!!
I'll move heaven and earth to get there.

I feel I should point out that March is almost over. :lol:

[LeesaB]

I'm already into 2010 :-)

[JimAskew]

Hi All,

Been a fun day so far...been out and about with Elaine. Found a new book at Elaine's store and I have been glued to it for the past two hours...another super mystery: "Birds of Prey" by J.A. Jance (William Morrow, Publisher). This a very well written page turner with J.P. Beaumount as the detective...he is one of my favorites :)

[JimAskew]

Jim, it's a shame your avatar is so small. As You know that we Mods get a larger one. That image of you is just as happy as the one of me above. That was a fun day! Can't wait for Friday.
It is a lovely photo made by a famous POTNer...alas us Peons get postage stamps for avatars :(:)

[JimAskew]

... I hope everyone here is doing well. I do try to keep up.....
Hi Tom,

All is well here...drop in when you can...we do miss you! Elaine and I are on a spring house cleaning fling for the next two weeks...my sister & brother-in-law are coming to visit. With Maureen's visit, housing cleaning, and an E-Session next week...I am really busy. Did I mention work? Lots going there as well...we are blessed with new contracts and I'm trying to get all started off on the right foot. I actually hired a new employee last week. I had 20 applicants and all had college degrees...it was amazing :D

[kja]

Good morning, all! i have a huge day in the office today but I'm also hoping to play some more with a new toy.

So far I am not totally over the moon with said new toy, but it could just be user error so far. Have to admit I'm a bit sad about it as I wanted it to be all fireworks and excitement!

[Belmondo]

Hi Tom,

All is well here...drop in when you can...we do miss you! Elaine and I are on a spring house cleaning fling for the next two weeks...my sister & brother-in-law are coming to visit. With Maureen's visit, housing cleaning, and an E-Session next week...I am really busy. Did I mention work? Lots going there as well...we are blessed with new contracts and I'm trying to get all started off on the right foot. I actually hired a new employee last week. I had 20 applicants and all had college degrees...it was amazing :DHey, we'll take good news wherever we can find it.

Good morning, all! i have a huge day in the office today but I'm also hoping to play some more with a new toy.

So far I am not totally over the moon with said new toy, but it could just be user error so far. Have to admit I'm a bit sad about it as I wanted it to be all fireworks and excitement!Okay. Are we supposed to guess?

[Kathy H]

Okay. Are we supposed to guess?

Hummmmmm....nothing new listed in her gear list

nothing new mentioned in her blog.

Kristin......what did you get?:D

[SuzyView]

She joined the 5DII club! :)

[kja]

:)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v230/alcina/My%20life%202009%20I/7J0O0645.jpg

[SuzyView]

Wow. Beautiful.

[kja]

Not the 5DII club...1DIII, tho ;)

Did the exif get stripped from that image?? Stupid thing...

[Belmondo]

Woo Hoo!!


Cogratulations.

Camera Make: Canon
Camera Model: Canon EOS-1D Mark III
Image Date: 2009:03:20 13:36:50
Flash Used: No
Focal Length: 85.0mm
CCD Width: 3.13mm
Exposure Time: 0.0063 s (1/160)
Aperture: f/1.8
ISO equiv: 3200
White Balance: Auto
Metering Mode: Matrix
Exposure: Manual
Exposure Mode: Manual

[Tommy]

Awesome Kristin! You're gonna love that body! I absolutely adore mine!! ;)

[kja]

I sure hope so ... I'm not loving it so far, but I'm sure it's just me ;)

For those interested, I've just made blog posts about the 10 year anniversary since our town was decimated by Cyclone Vance ... I cheated and used the same post on all three of the blogs I'm running, though www.exmouthdive.blogspot.com has a little more information on the damage our business suffered. www.kristinsnews.blogspot.com and www.kjaphotos.blogspot.com have the same post more or less ;)

BTW - Tom, why don't the little buttons on the new message bit work for me anymore :( I can't make a link or change fonts etc

[LeesaB]

wooo HOOO....congrats Kristin...ENJOY it fully!

Can't wait to see what you do with that new body!

[SoaringUSAEagle]

Here's an updated box shot from me... Taken with my 5D2 and 35L. f/5.6 1/125s ISO 400.

http://blog.jeffreyallred.com/images/2009/03/20090322-1.jpg

And a 100% crop.

http://blog.jeffreyallred.com/images/2009/03/20090322-2.jpg

I will attempt to take some shots of Jacob tomorrow evening. This weekend was crazy and I spent this afternoon going through our two hall closets, weeding stuff out and taking things over to my mom's house. Natalie and I also went south to Colorado and spent some gift cards that we received for Jacob. It was just a fun filled day in the 70+ degree weather with little wind. Now we are in for 6-12 inches of snow starting tomorrow. YUCK!!!!!

I'll be working on wedding images soon too from last weekend, since the weather will be crappy :D I'm so praying for a snow day!!!!!!!!

And the main reason I havent done any photos of Jacob yet is because I need to get a few things :D

[kja]

LOL on the box shot :)

We want baby photos!!

[Bobster]

shot from a Kyps gig tonight
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/110514709.jpg

[kja]

does anyone know why my exif reader in firefox isn't working? It used to :) Now I get nothing. I've just reinstalled it and still nada nada enchilada.

Bob - I love your music shots!

[Belmondo]

BTW - Tom, why don't the little buttons on the new message bit work for me anymore :( I can't make a link or change fonts etc

I'm not sure what you're asking, but it sounds like your not in the WYSIWYG mode on the Message Editor Interface.

On your User CP, go to 'Edit Options.' At the bottom of that page is 'Miscellaneous Options.'

You'll see Message Editor Interface.' Make sure 'Enhanced Interface - Full WYSIWYG Interface' is selected.

Otherwise, I can't imagine what you're referring to.

[LeesaB]

Or it could be your firefox!

[LeesaB]

shot from a Kyps gig tonight
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/110514709.jpg

Nice!!!!

[SoaringUSAEagle]

BTW - Tom, why don't the little buttons on the new message bit work for me anymore :( I can't make a link or change fonts etc

Clear your cache. Seriously, it'll solve the issue.

[Belmondo]

Clear your cache. Seriously, it'll solve the issue....or use a Mac.:rolleyes::rolleyes:

[kja]

Like I know what a cache is :)

[Belmondo]

Like I know what a cache is :)

In Firefox, under the Tools Menu, select 'Clear Private Data.'

Uncheck everything except Cache, then hit the button that says, "Clear Private Data Now."

[kja]

Thanks :) Didn't seem to work :(

[Kathy H]

OOOoooooooooooooohhhhhhhhhh!

Kristin got a new camera, wow! Lucky girl!

[LeesaB]

I think I'm yawning more then breathing... is that even possible

Where has Jared been? Just because he sold his camera is NO reason not to come in and speak with us.

Tom, nice to see you around, miss ya!

Tomorrow is Monday! oh joy! :-)

[LeesaB]

Thanks :) Didn't seem to work :(

clear and restart!

[Belmondo]

clear and restart!Oh yeah. That part. :lol:

[LeesaB]

So, on to more marketing...I met with a marketing speaker today and he suggested

"making an astonishing guarantee" that other companies would balk at....

In our field of photography, being portrait or wedding..

What do you think an astonishing guarantee would be?

[LeesaB]

Oh yeah. That part. :lol:

I personally liked your "get a mac" suggestion

However did you see how they are working on the mac getting viruses now?

[SoaringUSAEagle]

...or use a Mac.:rolleyes::rolleyes:

I've had the issue with my macbook pro, but clearing the cache worked. I have no idea what she's done LOL. :)

[kja]

LOL computers simply hate me. Nothing I've tried works. Oh well...

Lisa - one of my suppliers offers payment AFTER you receive the goods and a complete return policy for any reason or no reason and they pay shipping. That's pretty astonishing.

I'd guess you could offer a money back if you don't like your images :D Totally not something I'd start get in to...

[Belmondo]

I personally liked your "get a mac" suggestion

However did you see how they are working on the mac getting viruses now?

I'ts inevitable. So far, Mac users have had it pretty easy, but as the user base grows, there will be more serious attempts, I'm sure.

[mathogre]

I'ts inevitable. So far, Mac users have had it pretty easy, but as the user base grows, there will be more serious attempts, I'm sure.

The good thing is that a Mac (OS X) is Unix at its core. :D

[Belmondo]

The good thing is that a Mac (OS X) is Unix at its core. :D

True, that.

I'm running Fusion 2.0 with Windows Xp on my Mac Pro, so I really do have some vulnerability. I scrupulously avoid downloading anything into the Windows environment. I do all that in the Mac OS.

[mathogre]

While I have a version of XP that I could legitimately run on one of my Macs (from a machine I built that finally broke), I only connect to Windows machines via Remote Desktop Connection.

I *know* Macs are better. After the first month with a Mac, my wife said, "You're not swearing at your computer anymore." ;)

[Bootsie]

I just switched to a Mac in October, and I love it! I will probably never go back. I still have to deal with my parents PC a lot, and I hate the dumb thing, I wish they would just buy a Mac already! But they are buying a new house, so it doesn't really work right now haha.

[Belmondo]

While I have a version of XP that I could legitimately run on one of my Macs (from a machine I built that finally broke), I only connect to Windows machines via Remote Desktop Connection.

I *know* Macs are better. After the first month with a Mac, my wife said, "You're not swearing at your computer anymore." ;)I still swear, but only on general principals, or when I have connectivity issues on my wireless network.

I just switched to a Mac in October, and I love it! I will probably never go back. I still have to deal with my parents PC a lot, and I hate the dumb thing, I wish they would just buy a Mac already! But they are buying a new house, so it doesn't really work right now haha.A house is probably more important, but only slightly. :lol:

[Maureen Souza]

What a day. In the middle of it all, Aaron got bit in the face by his mom's large dog. Took off his top lip and bite marks to the left cheek and right chin. Poor kid had to get put to sleep and have plastic surgery. :(:(

Boy is my son furious. The mom was sleeping when it happened.

[kja]

omg Maureen, that sucks! I hope Aaron recovers fast!!

I was going to moan about some things in my day, but pretty sure that nothing I dealt with was as traumatic as that.

[JimAskew]

What a day. In the middle of it all, Aaron got bit in the face by his mom's large dog. Took off his top lip and bite marks to the left cheek and right chin. Poor kid had to get put to sleep and have plastic surgery. :(:(

Boy is my son furious. The mom was sleeping when it happened.
Maureen,

That is awful! I hope that he will recover quickly. I'll keep him in my thoughts and prayers.

[SuzyView]

Maureen, he's in the hospital, or is he home? I get the feeling that having a surgical nurse for a grandma has it's advantages. He's young. He'll heal beautifully.

[Tommy]

Morning all...

Maureen:: That's really sad to hear... I hope the boy is ok!

[LeesaB]

Morning everyone...

Awww...Maureen I am so sorry.... I'm sure he will recover from it well, probably better then the parents and grandparents!

I agree about Mac I am in love with my mac! He's awesome! :-)

My son told me about the virus attempts, because the people that do it have found windows too easy and I guess they are looking for a challenge? I dunno!

[LeesaB]

opps and I was thinking of a money back guarantee, Something with stipulations like first 20 days, etc.

[Tommy]

opps and I was thinking of a money back guarantee, Something with stipulations like first 20 days, etc.

I wouldn't do it... Why would you want to work the entire wedding day, plus edit photos for free?

BUT.... if you DO do that, then here are my suggestions:
1) Put their proofs online, and make it as hard as possible to copy (impossible to keep them from it, but you can make it hard to do other than Print Screening), and use low res images

2) If they claim the guarantee and request their refund, all images are DESTROYED.

3) Once any albums, prints, digital copies, what have you, is delivered, no more money back

The guarantee that I use (and my clients seem to love it) is a lifetime guarantee on prints. If a print fades, or gets damaged in any way (even if it's your fault), then I'll replace it for free. Just bring in the damaged print. Probably not an "astonishing" guarantee though...

[SoaringUSAEagle]

Wow Mo... I hope he is okay!

[LeesaB]

Tommy,

He's a marketing guru, and was talking how to beat out the compettion during tough times, most of the other suggestions we have done/or not done. This one is one that stuck out and I am brainstorming it

I was thinking, either you know or you don't that you like what I did. You'll have 20 days, no images can be ordered, images will be removed (hey, if you don't like them why would I want anyone to see them)my images are watermarked online.

I know there are people out there that want to screw with it and some may jump on this, but most will not.

He said to come up with something others would balk at doing.... I'm thinking this is it since both you and Kristin have balked at doing it LOL.

Not sure I'll implement it, but I'm considering it.

he's not a fly by night, he's also a book publisher, renowned speaker and book writer...

So it's not low end advice!

[Tommy]

Well the reason I balk at it is simply because I could potentially be working an entire wedding, and not get paid.... that's like 1 or 2 weeks of UNPAID LEAVE... Then how would I keep a roof over my head and food on my daughter's plate (I'm speaking as if photography was a full time job, which hopefully will be for me soon)?? So yea... I balk at it, because the risk of being unpaid is too high... especially for an economy like ours...

Is being unpaid for your hard work worth it to you? If it's no problem to you, then do it... I'm sure it would turn heads with potential clients... ;)

[LeesaB]

Its the same thought as raise your prices, it goes against the grain of popular believe, marketing more, dont lower prices and bundling. I've got a whole list here :-)

I see what you are saying, but the fact is, I've not had a bride or couple unhappy with what I've done. Not bragging. Just honest. I am very VERY sure there are people out there that would want to screw me, but in turn they are screwing themselves out of their only shot at wedding pics.

Do I want to work and not get paid...sure I don't. Who does, but in this economy do I want to do something astonishing to bring in more clients, something that Trotter (a local bella) would not do! Sure do!

[Tommy]

I completely understand where you're coming from... I'm just not comfortable with taking that kind of risk... Now I've never had an unhappy client either... but I sure as hell know that around here, people won't think twice about screwing you... lol... I've been screwed plenty of times which is now why I have a high, non-refundable, retainer... ;) I can just see something like that opening me up to a disaster... lol...

If you do it, let me know how it works out... For me, I'm taking a different approach to getting more clients by getting rid of packages, and going al-a-carte... still working out that pricing (got most of it done last night, just fine-tuning now). The idea is that I'll let people pick what they want, starting with a base price to just come out and shoot (and edit). So I know I won't make less than that amount. Then they can add albums, engagement sessions, etc., which is a bonus to me. But at the same time, I know if I book just the minimum, I'm doing the minimum amount of work. It's not a very popular pricing scheme out here, and from talking to other people around here, they seem to think it will be a good hit... They like the idea that they don't have to conform to a package...

[Bobster]

I sure hope so ... I'm not loving it so far, but I'm sure it's just me ;)well ill swap it for a 20D ;)

does anyone know why my exif reader in firefox isn't working? It used to :) Now I get nothing. I've just reinstalled it and still nada nada enchilada.

Bob - I love your music shots!i could be that you need to get the latest version of the add on because its not compatible with the newer version of FF?

However did you see how they are working on the mac getting viruses now?
My son told me about the virus attempts, because the people that do it have found windows too easy and I guess they are looking for a challenge? I dunno!
Mac's have always had Virii they just havent been as popular as Windows because there are less of them in the world, people who write them want to hit the largest population they can, Wintel boxes out weigh Mac's by a large majority, so they have more :)

[LeesaB]

I completely understand where you're coming from... I'm just not comfortable with taking that kind of risk... Now I've never had an unhappy client either... but I sure as hell know that around here, people won't think twice about screwing you... lol... I've been screwed plenty of times which is now why I have a high, non-refundable, retainer... ;) I can just see something like that opening me up to a disaster... lol...

If you do it, let me know how it works out... For me, I'm taking a different approach to getting more clients by getting rid of packages, and going al-a-carte... still working out that pricing (got most of it done last night, just fine-tuning now). The idea is that I'll let people pick what they want, starting with a base price to just come out and shoot (and edit). So I know I won't make less than that amount. Then they can add albums, engagement sessions, etc., which is a bonus to me. But at the same time, I know if I book just the minimum, I'm doing the minimum amount of work. It's not a very popular pricing scheme out here, and from talking to other people around here, they seem to think it will be a good hit... They like the idea that they don't have to conform to a package...


I guess it is what works for you, maybe the area, who knows.... It goes against what he tells business owners to do...he says to bundle more. I've heard a lot of these over on DWF, but not the astonishing guarantee

[LeesaB]

well ill swap it for a 20D ;)

i could be that you need to get the latest version of the add on because its not compatible with the newer version of FF?



Mac's have always had Virii they just havent been as popular as Windows because there are less of them in the world, people who write them want to hit the largest population they can, Wintel boxes out weigh Mac's by a large majority, so they have more :)

Yeah, that is what he said, because there are more and more mac owners now, so now it's become worth it. THAT is what he said....

Hey it's early...give me a break!

[Tommy]

maybe the area

This is exactly it... every area is different. ;)

[LeesaB]

well, we will be a marketing experiment, and see what works!

[JimAskew]

Tommy,

He's a marketing guru, and was talking how to beat out the compettion during tough times, most of the other suggestions we have done/or not done. This one is one that stuck out and I am brainstorming it

I was thinking, either you know or you don't that you like what I did. You'll have 20 days, no images can be ordered, images will be removed (hey, if you don't like them why would I want anyone to see them)my images are watermarked online.

I know there are people out there that want to screw with it and some may jump on this, but most will not.

He said to come up with something others would balk at doing.... I'm thinking this is it since both you and Kristin have balked at doing it LOL.

Not sure I'll implement it, but I'm considering it.

he's not a fly by night, he's also a book publisher, renowned speaker and book writer...

So it's not low end advice!
Lisa,

You need a bonus incentive of some sort. In my world we give discounts of up to 10% for a quick sale. We offer 5% for prompt payments.

You could offer additional photos for "free" if certain quantities are ordered. Perhaps you could offered some framed prints? You can bulk buy wood or metal frames for a very reasonable cost. You could offer an extra hour of coverage if that would work.

Bottom line is that you need to see what the competition is offering and go them one better without hitting your profit line too hard. As I am sure you already know...be aware of the "cut throat" photographers who offer a $600 package...don't get caught up in that...these are probably folks with a DSLR, no experience, and out to make a quick buck. Your endorsements from happy B&Gs will serve to justify your pricing.

[LeesaB]

Lisa,

You need a bonus incentive of some sort. In my world we give discounts of up to 10% for a quick sale. We offer 5% for prompt payments.

You could offer additional photos for "free" if certain quantities are ordered. Perhaps you could offered some framed prints? You can bulk buy wood or metal frames for a very reasonable cost. You could offer an extra hour of coverage if that would work.

Bottom line is that you need to see what the competition is offering and go them one better without hitting your profit line too hard. As I am sure you already know...be aware of the "cut throat" photographers who offer a $600 package...don't get caught up in that...these are probably folks with a DSLR, no experience, and out to make a quick buck. Your endorsements from happy B&Gs will serve to justify your pricing.

We have a bella here named "trotter" Trotter started out as a great idea...giving college kids exposure to weddings and seniors, but now it's just a money making mess. Run very much like Bella. Putting out crap photography, not offering clients the work they see by the artist they are interviewed with.

I've been told how nice the owners of Trotter are, but nice and business are two different things!

[LeesaB]

Someone just showed me this thread....thought I'd post it here for your viewing ........

it's graphic and not pleasant to look at, don't open with kids around!

So I posted my comment and then someone dare tried to snipe at me...

that's the funny part....

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=662657

[SuzyView]

I'm not into that type of work, but it's interesting.

I'm off to Ruby Tuesdays for lunch in a bit. My friend has a coupon, 2 entrees for one cost. It's okay. I used to eat there all the time, but I prefer Red Robin. At least I'm starved and really need to eat.

Leesa, sounds like you are jumping both feet in on work. I'm tired just reading about your adventures. And all the new additions here. Wow. Seems like everyone has a life, hopefully, including Tommy. :)

Jim, Maureen, I got a flyer from Mt. Vernon. There's another possibility there, if it rains. I really wanted to do a barbecue on Sunday, but now have to not have it. I have a commitment. So, Mo has to tell us what her schedule is for Sunday with her niece. I won't be home all day after noon.

[LeesaB]

Suzy, I stay busy, to keep me from thinking about Raquel and Ami....

I've done good so far, but last week I was at the post office and saw an elderly man mailing something to children (disney stickers all over it) and I really had to hold in my emotions...all I could think is, "I don't want to be that kind of grandparent" I want to be a hands on...

So, like I said, I stay busy....keep me going!

[Tommy]

Nah... besides my daughter and photography (which includes POTN, and you guys).... no... I don't have a life... lol j/k... ;)

[LeesaB]

yeah okay, I don't believe it at all!

[Tommy]

yeah okay, I don't believe it at all!

When I had down time, who was I chatting with yesterday?? lol... ;) Point made?? haha...

[JimAskew]

... I'm off to Ruby Tuesdays for lunch in a bit. My friend has a coupon, 2 entrees for one cost. It's okay. I used to eat there all the time, but I prefer Red Robin. At least I'm starved and really need to eat. ...
Ruby Tuesdays has an awesome salad bar!

[Tommy]

ooohhhh!!! Lisa!! You're 1 post away from 14k!!!

[Belmondo]

ooohhhh!!! Lisa!! You're 1 post away from 14k!!!

That's big!!.



Jim...
I've never been impressed by a salad bar (too much 'junk'), but give me a really good Asian chicken salad, and I'm in heaven.

[LeesaB]

WELL,,

What better place to put my 14k, then right here!

You guys are the best and this thread is the best thread in all of POTN land!

I did not even notice, I never look anymore, since the title fairy went into recession mode :-)

[LeesaB]

and I love Ruby Tuesday's Salad Bar, but I hate Ponderosa or any Ryans buffet houses... ICK ICK ICK...

[sidx001]

and I love Ruby Tuesday's Salad Bar, but I hate Ponderosa or any Ryans buffet houses... ICK ICK ICK...

I ate a place called "Oceans Zen" last night where they did things with Chilean Sea Bass that should be outlawed it was so good!!

[JimAskew]

... but give me a really good Asian chicken salad, and I'm in heaven.
California Pizza Kitchen! Their Asian Chicken Salad is the best...and for an additional $2.00 they will double the avocado :D

[JimAskew]

I ate a place called "Oceans Zen" last night where they did things with Chilean Sea Bass that should be outlawed it was so good!!
I go to Coastal Flats for Chilean Sea Bass...served with steamed rice on a bed of cooked spinach...yum! Time for lunch...you guys are making me hungry :D

[LeesaB]

Lately it's all been about food.....UGH food food food

[Tommy]

Lately it's all been about food.....UGH food food food

And on that note, it's just about lunch time! :D

I've come to your defense Lisa... it seems some people want to be "artists" but fail to see that art is very subjective and that there are more opinions out there other than their own... :rolleyes:

[LeesaB]

I saw that, thank you Tommy!

I'll have to catch up on comments when I get back, we are putting in the garden now...

Yeah..tilling up sod, nothing like it ahahhahahah

but I'll have a HUGE garden this year....

[Belmondo]

Major disappointment...

We were given tickets to the big tennis tournament that just wrapped up here yesterday. This is a huge international event, and everything about it is supposed to be super deluxe. (tickets for that day were $220 per person) We were also given tickets to the Chef's Table, a VIP buffet. I was really looking forward to that.

The food quality ranged from mediocre to bad. There wasn't one good thing there, and when we decided to try the dessert table, we were told we would have to pay an additional $8 per person for that dubious privilege. At least the tennis was pretty good. We watched the finals of the Men's Doubles, and it was a real barn-burner. It ended up in a tie-breaker that the U.S. team finally won 14-12.

Afterwards, I went home and made a grilled cheese sandwich.

[Bobster]

YAY my replacement phone arrived :D
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/110534288.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/110534291.jpg

[SoaringUSAEagle]

LOL Tom - well, at least the tennis was decent :) And fairly cheap for you to watch :D

[Belmondo]

LOL Tom - well, at least the tennis was decent :) And fairly cheap for you to watch :D

It doesn't get much better than free. :lol: And the cheese sandwich was pretty good. :rolleyes:

Funny thing.....I figured they would probably not allow me to bring in one of my big lenses. I know the PGA and other sports leagues are very strict on that. I couldn't find out online, so I just took the G-10 and took only a few 'snaps.' I asked when we got there if I could have brought more equipment, and they said it would have been okay---no flash, though.

Another missed opportunity for some good pictures.

Oh well.

[Tommy]

It doesn't get much better than free. :lol: And the cheese sandwich was pretty good. :rolleyes:

Funny thing.....I figured they would probably not allow me to bring in one of my big lenses. I know the PGA and other sports leagues are very strict on that. I couldn't find out online, so I just took the G-10 and took only a few 'snaps.' I asked when we got there if I could have brought more equipment, and they said it would have been okay---no flash, though.

Another missed opportunity for some good pictures.

Oh well.

Shoulda brought it and left it in the car! Then when they said it would've been ok, just run out to the car and get it. ;)

[Kathy H]

What a day. In the middle of it all, Aaron got bit in the face by his mom's large dog. Took off his top lip and bite marks to the left cheek and right chin. Poor kid had to get put to sleep and have plastic surgery. :(:(

Boy is my son furious. The mom was sleeping when it happened.

OMG! That is horrible! Poor little guy!

[Belmondo]

What a day. In the middle of it all, Aaron got bit in the face by his mom's large dog. Took off his top lip and bite marks to the left cheek and right chin. Poor kid had to get put to sleep and have plastic surgery. :(:(

Boy is my son furious. The mom was sleeping when it happened.

That's a sad story on so many levels. I almost missed this (I'm not good about reading very far back.)

I hope the dog issue is dealt with appropriately.

[SuzyView]

Maureen is knee deep at work or in spackle right now.

We are still working out details for her trip. I hope this problem with Aaron's face isn't going to be too bad.

[Derweissehai]

Morning/Afternoon All. Ben a fun a fun day. Daughter tripped and hit her nose on the front bumper of the van Saturday. Had it looked at this morning and it is broken in 1 possibly 2 spots. But it is a straight break and she can breathe with no problem.

So as a reward for being good during the x-rays I left her hang with DAD today. Nice day. Also posted some new photos on my deviant art account. NSFW.....but they are nature shots. Won't post in GN section anymore. Too many in there that think they know everything.

Oh well time to get ready for work. Check back in later.

[LeesaB]

Major disappointment...

We were given tickets to the big tennis tournament that just wrapped up here yesterday. This is a huge international event, and everything about it is supposed to be super deluxe. (tickets for that day were $220 per person) We were also given tickets to the Chef's Table, a VIP buffet. I was really looking forward to that.

The food quality ranged from mediocre to bad. There wasn't one good thing there, and when we decided to try the dessert table, we were told we would have to pay an additional $8 per person for that dubious privilege. At least the tennis was pretty good. We watched the finals of the Men's Doubles, and it was a real barn-burner. It ended up in a tie-breaker that the U.S. team finally won 14-12.

Afterwards, I went home and made a grilled cheese sandwich.

LOL Tom - well, at least the tennis was decent :) And fairly cheap for you to watch :D

Wow, how sad, and you do expect to have nice food at things like that...very sad for the people that catered the event.

Bobster...nice phone, dude!

[LeesaB]

Shoot is EVERYONE on spring break?

Hi everyone!!!

Well the garden is tilled, how cool is that! tomorrow we plant a few things...I'm stoked, it's 2x bigger then the one we had in Ohio and I can plant things 2 months earlier...
AND...we are going to try to do watermelon!!! Yeah baby!!!!

So now I have real work to do....

I've booked up most of my Saturdays and one Sunday in April with E sessions, I'm really excited about that, I'll be shooting a few of them in the park that Jim and I did family pics at.

One couple seems very exciting, so we are going to venture out and do a few more fun things with them...

yeah!

[SoaringUSAEagle]

We are supposedly in the middle of a blizzard here... the wind is blowing like crazy and it is a blizzard everywhere around Cheyenne. We were supposed to get 6-12 inches. So far the ground is just wet, but drying as I can see blue sky outside now... and get this... schools were released early in preparation for this storm. It is in effect until 6am tomorrow, but come onnnnn.... we got over 8 inches of snow in January and still had "normal" work days/hours. DUMB!

[LeesaB]

Major disappointment...

We were given tickets to the big tennis tournament that just wrapped up here yesterday. This is a huge international event, and everything about it is supposed to be super deluxe. (tickets for that day were $220 per person) We were also given tickets to the Chef's Table, a VIP buffet. I was really looking forward to that.

The food quality ranged from mediocre to bad. There wasn't one good thing there, and when we decided to try the dessert table, we were told we would have to pay an additional $8 per person for that dubious privilege. At least the tennis was pretty good. We watched the finals of the Men's Doubles, and it was a real barn-burner. It ended up in a tie-breaker that the U.S. team finally won 14-12.

Afterwards, I went home and made a grilled cheese sandwich.

Omgosh a WHAT? It's 70 here today, and windy, but I love the sound of the wind in the trees.

[kja]

hey, look, it's morning again. Whooppeee. Had a bad night's sleep and am just blah so far. Hate to start a day like that AND it's still #@%#@%$ daylight savings time so that means it is dark until 7am-ish...can't wait for the end of the month so I can actually take the dogs for at least a short walk before work!

[Jon]

Not the 5DII club...1DIII, tho ;)

Did the exif get stripped from that image?? Stupid thing...
No, it's there - congratulations - once you get used to the different way of doing things, you'll love it!
I sure hope so ... I'm not loving it so far, but I'm sure it's just me ;)

For those interested, I've just made blog posts about the 10 year anniversary since our town was decimated by Cyclone Vance ... I cheated and used the same post on all three of the blogs I'm running, though www.exmouthdive.blogspot.com has a little more information on the damage our business suffered. www.kristinsnews.blogspot.com and www.kjaphotos.blogspot.com have the same post more or less ;)

BTW - Tom, why don't the little buttons on the new message bit work for me anymore :( I can't make a link or change fonts etcClear cache . . .

Thanks :) Didn't seem to work :(and . . .

clear and restart!That^^^^

I personally liked your "get a mac" suggestion

However did you see how they are working on the mac getting viruses now?Nothing new. You haven't seen many because virus writers are like Willie Sutton on banks.

Poor Aaron! And poor dog - obviously poorly trained (if at all) and he, not the owner, will be blamed when Aaron's mother is the real cause.

[SuzyView]

Hi, everyone! How's it going this afternoon? I just got home from grocery shopping. Two weeks since I've gone and it cost a fortune.

[kja]

Thanks, Jon ... I'm simply cursed. It didn't work last night, but now - viola!- it's all good :D

Suzy - don't I know it on the groceries! I bought stuff to make a pasta dish the other day and it was $60 by the time I walked out. Stupid crazy prices. Our capsicum (peppers) were $14/kg today again for the reds and the oranges are $17/kg :(

[Belmondo]

I hope the dog issue is dealt with appropriately.


Poor Aaron! And poor dog - obviously poorly trained (if at all) and he, not the owner, will be blamed when Aaron's mother is the real cause.That's what I meant. Sounds like the mom shouldn't have custody of either Aaron or the pooch.

[SuzyView]

Let's not be too hard on her now. Don't make poor Mo feel any worse.

Also, Tom, when did you get the new title? It's cute.

[Belmondo]

Also, Tom, when did you get the new title? It's cute.

It came up in the Tupperware thread, and I decided it was too good to waste. :wink:

[JimAskew]

Good Evening All,

Slow night at the Askew's. We are watching a couple runs of 'Murder She Wrote' that I have saved on my DVR. You can watch an one hour episode in 40 minutes by running through the commericals at 4x :D It is the way we watch TV these days...tape the shows and watch them the next day...and blast through the commericals!

[Tommy]

Good Evening All,

Slow night at the Askew's. We are watching a couple runs of 'Murder She Wrote' that I have saved on my DVR. You can watch an one hour episode in 40 minutes by running through the commericals at 4x :D It is the way we watch TV these days...tape the shows and watch them the next day...and blast through the commericals!

I need to get a DVR :(

[Belmondo]

Good Evening All,

Slow night at the Askew's. We are watching a couple runs of 'Murder She Wrote' that I have saved on my DVR. You can watch an one hour episode in 40 minutes by running through the commericals at 4x :D It is the way we watch TV these days...tape the shows and watch them the next day...and blast through the commericals!

We have a DVR, but Lois hasn't discovered it yet. It's great for auto races and American Chopper. :lol:

[LeesaB]

Okay now I love my mac and DVR and garden! :-)

Wow, it was beat up on Mo day eh? Whew, glad I was out of that mess!

I'm writing an article, cleaning out a few boxes...I REFUSE to be the one that has moved and still has stuff in boxes....I absolutely refuse! I have about....8 more boxes, besides the stuff to go in my office once it's built. Now that may be a little while, but till then....I have 8 more boxes to go!

Jim and I are going to Kansas City Thur-Sat, then I have a shoot with a single mom's luncheon when we get back on Sunday...

Excited to get away, not sure about KC, but anywhere we go, we have fun!

[Jon]

Let's not be too hard on her now. Don't make poor Mo feel any worse.

Also, Tom, when did you get the new title? It's cute.Hey, it's not Maureen - it's her ex-DiL that's the problem, as she's said before. I'm sure that if the dog had been hers (and Skip's), he'd be absolutely fine, but if you don't put the effort into them both dogs and kids are likely to become delinquent. Mo's doing her best with Aaron, and it's working. But she didn't sign on for a dog.

[SuzyView]

Yeah, I know. I just feel like Aaron has a long road. I'm not in his shoes and I can't imagine it's easy. No one is perfect, so I don't even start on getting on anyone's case. There is no doubt that the responsibility here is the owner of the dog.

[Bobster]

hey all, just back from spending 3 hours in a recording studio with Pete Christie :D

just the one pic before i hit the sack :)
http://www.pbase.com/bob_hall/image/110552233.jpg

[Tommy]

Very nice Bob! I love that angle!

[LeesaB]

I like that shot a lot...errr should I just critique it?

SORRY Sorry, don't ban me, I had to do it!

[SuzyView]

Nice shot, Bob.

[JimAskew]

hey all, just back from spending 3 hours in a recording studio with Pete Christie :D

just the one pic before i hit the sack :)

Very cool shot, Bob!

[Bootsie]

Hey everyone! Stressful day here, I hate mondays, but tonight I get to relax. :)

Mo so sorry about Aaron, I hope everything goes well and he heals very quickly!

Well we received an offer on our house! Yay! Now we just need to get it inspected, and the buyers need to get financing, I hope it all works, we are very excited!

[Belmondo]

Hey everyone! Stressful day here, I hate mondays, but tonight I get to relax. :)

Mo so sorry about Aaron, I hope everything goes well and he heals very quickly!

Well we received an offer on our house! Yay! Now we just need to get it inspected, and the buyers need to get financing, I hope it all works, we are very excited!

Considering the times, that's a real accomplishment......fingers crossed for you and your parents.

[SuzyView]

Offers are great. Congrats, Brooke. Hope it works out.

[SoaringUSAEagle]

As promised...

5D2 and 24-70 hard at work.

http://blog.jeffreyallred.com/images/2009/03/20090323-1.jpg

Holy..... Look at all that camera stuff Dad!!!!
http://blog.jeffreyallred.com/images/2009/03/20090323-2.jpg

[Tommy]

Beautiful Jeff!! Thanks for sharing them! ;)

[LeesaB]

Awwww....baby pics....

Your son is beautiful!

[Kathy H]

Wonderful shots Jeff! Jacob is absolutely adorable and WOW he has grown so much already, he obviously has the whole eating business down to a fine art now!:D

[LeesaB]

I think I hear thunder....

Just in time for bed! Perfect! I love a good storm!

[LeesaB]

Kathy...your mailbox is full again LOL, dang girl, who you Pming with?

[Kathy H]

Kathy...your mailbox is full again LOL, dang girl, who you Pming with?

Well lets see......You and most of the other folks in this wedding chat:lol:

I emptied it:D

[Bootsie]

Great shots Jeff! He is adorable!

Thanks for the encouragement everyone! Our fingers are crossed, we really need this!

[JimAskew]

Hey everyone! Stressful day here, I hate mondays, but tonight I get to relax. :)

Mo so sorry about Aaron, I hope everything goes well and he heals very quickly!

Well we received an offer on our house! Yay! Now we just need to get it inspected, and the buyers need to get financing, I hope it all works, we are very excited!
You go, Bootsie! Got my fingers & toes crossed for you :)

[JimAskew]

As promised...

5D2 and 24-70 hard at work.

Holy..... Look at all that camera stuff Dad!!!!

Jeff,

Beautiful son you have there :D

[Maureen Souza]

Sorry for my lag time.... between checking up on Aaron and working on Ryan's house I realize that I am exhausted and working way too hard.

Aaron is home now and doing fair...he doesn't want to try to eat or drink so that is becoming a coaxing issue. He has a lot of sutures, mostly to the inside of his mouth and about 5 on the outside. Some are deep tissue sutures so it will be quite painful when he gets them out. The bitemarks are not so angry but the face is all bruised and swollen not to mention his poor mouth. He can hardly talk and Ryan told Carrie to keep him home from school for this week. My heart is just broken over all this...such a sweet little guy who I hate to see suffering :(:(:(

[Tommy]

That sucks Mo... I'll be keeping Aaron in my thoughts and prayers and I hope he recovers quickly. Now.... what's happening to the dog?

Brooke, I hope everything goes well with the house. ;)

[kja]

:( Poor Baby!! I hope Aaron feels better soon - what a trauma for such a young thing!

Most of you already know, but I "announced" my new toy on my blog (http://www.kjaphotos.blogspot.com) tonight ... tried to make it fun!

[Bobster]

lovely shots Jeff :D

sorry to hear about Aaron Maureen, I can imagine what everyone must be feeling at the moment, I wouldnt want that to happen to either of my 2.. :(

[SuzyView]

Mo, I know you worry about him because he's yours. We'll keep him in our thoughts and prayers because little guys should be jumping around smiling. No school for a week sounds right. And anything that stops one from eating stinks. I'm just finally getting my mouth to work and will probably need braces. I'm too old for this crap!

[JimAskew]

... Aaron is home now and doing fair...he doesn't want to try to eat or drink so that is becoming a coaxing issue. He has a lot of sutures, mostly to the inside of his mouth and about 5 on the outside. Some are deep tissue sutures so it will be quite painful when he gets them out. The bitemarks are not so angry but the face is all bruised and swollen not to mention his poor mouth. He can hardly talk and Ryan told Carrie to keep him home from school for this week. My heart is just broken over all this...such a sweet little guy who I hate to see suffering :(:(:(
Maureen,

I am glad to see he is on the mend. It just hurts to see a little one suffer. I hope and pray he bounces back to his old self quickly!

[mathogre]

All the best to Aaron, Maureen.

[SuzyView]

Morning all. Who is going to be at the Cherry Blossoms on Friday?

[mathogre]

Good morning Suzy!

I'd love to meet folks on Friday but it's a long work day so I can't. (Saturday is also a work day.) I hope everyone has a good time!

[SuzyView]

We'll probably also be around on Monday, if that's better for you. :)