Let me simply say - I LOVE work as a professional pet photographer! For 13+ years, my journey has been a tapestry woven with moments of joy, shared laughter, and the privilege of capturing the unique memories of our beloved pets. Spending time with families with four-legged babies or capturing heart-warming portraits of furry friends at my local animal shelter always fill my heart with true happiness and put a smile on my face. I also believe that my feelings are echoed through my lens as I keep hearing over and over again: "You have the best job in this world!"
However, as every seasoned photographer, I have encountered at least one of these reactions to the pricing details:
You charge how much???!!!
I can get an 8x10 at Walmart for $3.00!
I can take pictures with blurry background with my phone!
Yes, professional photography services are expensive. But, photography is expensive on both ends. In reality, professional photographers don't really earn $250 an hour for pushing a buton. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, most earn between $31,710 and $40,280 annually, or $15.24 to $19.37 an hour. (this information was taken from a wonderful article “Why Professional Photographers Are So Expensive https://www.pixsy.com/why-professional-photographers-are-so-expensive/).
In the age of Instagram and smartphone cameras, capturing the perfect pet moment seems as simple as a click. However, let me walk you into the world of professional pet photography, and you will find a realm where the artistry goes beyond the casual snap. While initially some may feel skeptical by the price tag attached to professional pet photography services, a closer look will help you understand a myriad of reasons why these services come with a premium price.
One aspect often underestimated is the "hidden hours" that go into a professional pet photography session. Beyond the time spent during the actual shot, photographers dedicate hours to preparatory work, including scouting locations, understanding client preferences, and planning the session to ensure it aligns with the pet's temperament. After the shoot, extensive post-processing is carried out to refine each image, ensuring they meet the high standards set by the photographer.
One of the key factors contributing to the high cost of professional pet photography is the extensive training and expertise required. A professional pet photographer is not merely someone with a camera but an artist who understands animal behavior, lighting, composition, and the technical nuances of photography. THis level of proficiency is achieved through years of training and hands-on experience, often involving specialized courses and workshops.
Pets, much like humans, have their own personalities and temperaments. Capturing the perfect shot requires a considerable amount of patience and understanding of animal behavior. If you have ever tried capturing a picture of your little puppy, cat, horse, lizard, or any other pet, you know that it could be quite challenging. You can't just ask your pet to sit still and look cute. Professional pet photographers are skilled in building a rapport with their furry subjects, creating an environment where the animals feel relaxed, comfortable, and natural. This level of patience and connection is an intangible skill that adds significant value to the final result.
Quality comes at a price, and professional pet photographers invest heavily in top-notch equipment. From high-resolution cameras and specialized lenses to professional lighting setups, the gear used by these photographers is essential for capturing the nuances of fur texture, whisker details, and the sparkle in a pet's eyes. The cost of maintaining and upgrading this equipment adds a substantial overhead to the overall service.
The magic of a professional pet photograph doesn't end with the click of the shutter. Extensive post-processing is required to enhance colors, correct lighting, and remove any imperfections. This meticulous editing process can take hours for a single session, ensuring that each image meets the high standard set by the photographer. The commitment to perfection in post-processing is a time-consuming aspect often overlooked by those who question the pricing of professional pet photography.
A professional pet photographer doesn't just stop at delivering digital files: they are artists who excel in the creation of unique and stunning printed art. The process of selecting the right materials, ensuring color accuracy, and working with professional printing labs adds another layer of expertise to the service. The final result is not just a photograph but a piece of art that captures the essence of the pet in a timeless form.
While the price of professional pet photography services may initially seem steep, it is crucial to recognize the depth of skill, training, and dedication that goes into creating these masterpieces. From professional training and patience to expensive equipment, long hours of post-processing, and the art of crafting stunning printed pieces, the cost reflects the true value of the services provided. In the end, the investment is not just in a photograph but in a timeless treasure that immortalizes the unique spirit and beauty of our beloved pets.